Petworth House and Park offer spectacular Spring Festival

It features free talks by horticultural experts; mini demonstrations including creating your own wormery; garden tours and gorgeous bulb displays; art and craft workshops – make a willow foraging basket, and more; a Makers Market featuring artisan gifts; and a family trail plus hands-on activities.

Sarah Gunn, senior visitor experience officer, said: “Now in its third year, our Spring Festival has become one of the highlights of the horticultural calendar. Petworth is bursting with life and activity at springtime, and our Spring Festival is a perfect opportunity for visitors to explore the gardens, listen to fascinating talks, pick up gardening tips from renowned experts, and indulge their senses in colour, beauty and nature.”

Normal admission applies, with many free events included.

“Now in its third year, the festival offers an inspiring programme of talks, demonstrations, workshops, family activities, garden tours and breathtaking spring bulb displays, set against the stunning backdrop of Petworth’s Pleasure Garden and historic grounds.

“On Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12, the festival will host a bustling Makers Market in partnership with Petworth Pop-Up. Visitors can browse the stalls and purchase high-quality artisan gifts, including handmade jewellery, homeware, textiles and artwork from talented makers.

“Families can take part in a free, buggy-friendly trail around the Pleasure Garden, which runs for the Easter holidays from Saturday, March 28 until Sunday, April 12. Young explorers can pick up a complimentary Tilly Plants a Tree trail map and enjoy engaging games and activities along the way.

“There are drop-in activities in Petworth’s Garden Theatre marquee too including make your own newspaper pot and seed planting (Monday to Thursday, March 30 to April 9 excluding the Easter Bank Holiday)

“From Thursday to Sunday, April 16-19, gardening enthusiasts will be treated to a series of free talks from horticultural experts in the garden theatre marquee. Speakers include gardener, broadcaster and best-selling author Arthur Parkinson, Professor of Biology and author Dave Goulson, National Trust senior gardener and author Robyn Booth, sustainable gardening expert Beverly Exall, and Petworth’s head gardener Martyn Burkinshaw. The full programme is available online. No booking is required for the garden talks.

“Martyn Burkinshaw will also lead free guided tours of the Pleasure Garden, where visitors can learn about the history of the gardens and experience sweeping displays of radiant spring bulbs.

“New for 2026, from April 13-15, visitors can join live 20-minute gardening demonstrations covering practical topics such as creating a wormery, beekeeping, composting and plant staking.

“From April 14-19, hands-on creative workshops will take place in the Battery House. Participants can try fused glassmaking, botanical drawing, foraging basket making and willow birdhouse crafting. Workshops are designed to be relaxed and accessible. Advance booking is essential.

“The festival will also showcase a striking handcrafted floral display in the marquee, created by members of the local community and dedicated volunteers.”

For full event details and timings, visit the Petworth House and Park website.