Wakehurst launches exciting new activities for all the family this summer.
This summer, Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden in the heart of Sussex, comes alive with a range of exciting activities, offering many options for the ultimate family day out. There’s something for all ages, from activity trails to bespoke art installations to capture the ideal photo opportunity.
New Children’s & Community Garden: All day, Free with entry
This summer, families can discover a new corner of Wakehurst’s 535-acre garden for the very first time. Nestled in the heart of the Mansion Gardens, a new, inclusive, and accessible space will be unveiled for all to enjoy. The Mud Kitchen, a Wakehurst family favourite, has undergone a redesign to expand and improve the area for even more messy play, with existing shady spots transformed into sensory corners and learning zones for workshops and school groups.
Meadowland: Until 10 September
Across the summer, children can wander underneath five 3.5m tall wooden gateways, decked in multicoloured prayer flags, listen to a giant steel gramophone projecting a series of interviews with wildlife, experience life from a bee’s perspective, and sit back on a circle of colourful woven chairs, soaking up the wonder of nature.
Summer Theatre: Saturday 22, Sunday 23, Saturday 29, Sunday 30 June
William Shakespeare’s much-loved comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream , specifically designed for young audiences, and set within the beautiful American Prairie and the Pinetum.
Wanderwild: 18, 19 and 20 July
In the golden glow of late summer evenings, through open lawns and the gently waving grasses of the American Prairie, visitors can enjoy beautiful performances from dancers, musicians and more. Be mesmerised by our aerial artist, high in the tree canopies and dancers drifting across the Mansion Pond, along with fire performers, from blazing fire-poi tricks to classic fire eating.
Flower Power: 20 July to 1 September
As part of Meadowland, young explorers can take part in Flower Power, the next Nature Heroes mission, with a brand-new badge up for grabs.
Horticultural highlights
Meadows are truly the star of the season, as swathes of wildflowers create sensory havens across the landscape. For the first time, ancient meadow South Park will be opened for visitors, offering a space for little legs to run wild and explore the species-rich grassland. Spanning 40 acres, this is the perfect setting for families to enjoy a picnic immersed in nature.
Further Information: Wakehurst | Kew