What’s on Sussex: Three garden shows in East Sussex and Hampshire – get tickets for a great day out

Three fantastic days out are planned for this spring and summer in the grounds of stunning stately homes in East Sussex and Hampshire.

Tickets are on sale now, so early birds can guarantee they won’t miss out. The shows are perfect for the avid gardener, the happy potterer, the expert and the beginner. And with so many shows, displays and events alongside the horticultural delights, there is something to keep everyone entertained for the day.

Planting the seeds – The Garden Shows history

The Garden Show team is celebrating over three decades of success, overcoming various challenges along the way, including unpredictable weather and the impact of Covid. Against all odds, the shows continued, even managing to hold events in 2020.

Thirty-one years ago, Jane Sterck and Lizzie Dymock were approached to create a garden show at Stansted Park in Hampshire, aiming to provide a platform for small businesses. When Lizzie sadly passed away, Jane’s daughter, Emily Sterck, became a vital partner in the venture. Both Jane and Emily attribute the show’s success to the unwavering support of their families and friends, who willingly take time off to help out as crew.

This year, whilst the show at Firle Place remains in April, the show at Broadlands will take place in June continuing the established dates of the show at Stansted Park after its closure in 2024 after 30 years. It will be the inaugural year for The Garden Show at Rookesbury Park in July, a stunning new venue located near the Forest of Bere, just north of Fareham.

What on at the shows?

All three shows have similar ranges and elements and offer the perfect opportunity to plan and enhance your garden and home. With over 170 stalls including specialist growers, you’ll find guidance on selecting the right plants and where to place them. There’s the chance to explore a diverse range of garden goods, artisan designs, homeware, garden furniture, fashion accessories, and delicious country foods. Each year, the shows have supported around 20 charities, providing them with free or subsidized space, and have raised thousands of pounds for worthy causes.

Ask the experts

In addition to shopping, the show features exciting attractions. Gardening expert Paul Slater will be available daily to address plant-related questions and will give a talk daily on ‘Small Space. Big Impact!’ showing how compact gardens can thrive. On Saturday, entomologist Dr. Ian Bedford will run a ‘Pest Clinic’ to identify any bug samples you bring and offer eco-friendly solutions for your garden. There will be daily Free Talks on gardening and other fascinating subjects.

Family entertainment

Family-friendly activities abound, including the giant tombola with fantastic prizes donated by exhibitors, all benefiting the chosen charity for each show. Enjoy ongoing artisan demonstrations in a variety of mediums. A jazz trio will serenade guests while Huxley Birds of Prey will captivate audiences with their aerial displays.

Younger visitors can have fun with Crazee Hazee, the show’s jester, who will teach circus juggling skills and host daily Punch & Judy shows. Plus, there will be Fun Fair with toddler rides, and bouncy activities.

“The learning curve has been steep but rewarding,” said Jane Sterck from The Garden Shows. “The shows have evolved into a mobile celebration, taking place at various locations in the south, while maintaining their original essence: providing an affordable, enjoyable day out and giving talented individuals a platform to shine. They continue to celebrate all that is wonderful about gardening and life itself!”

Book your tickets

Find out more about the shows and book your tickets now. Visit The Garden Shows website here.