For the second year running, Wakehurst—Kew’s wild botanic garden—has officially been crowned the top destination in Sussex. Here is why this 535-acre sanctuary is a must-visit for 2026.

According to the latest figures from the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA) released this week, Wakehurst has retained its title as the most popular attraction in the county. Not only is it the #1 spot in Sussex, but it also sits comfortably in the top 20 most-visited destinations in the South-East.

If you haven’t visited the High Weald recently, here are five reasons why Wakehurst continues to lead the pack.

1. 25 Years of the Millennium Seed Bank

2025 was a landmark year for Wakehurst as it celebrated a quarter-century of the Millennium Seed Bank. As the world’s largest wild seed store, this “living laboratory” is the heart of global conservation. Visitors today aren’t just walking through gardens; they are stepping into a centre of pioneering science that is actively protecting and restoring nature for future generations.

2. The Reopening of the Elizabethan Mansion

One of the major highlights of the past year was the grand reopening of the Wakehurst Elizabethan Mansion. Following extensive work, the house returned with fresh exhibitions that blend history with contemporary botanical art. It provides a stunning architectural anchor to the wild landscapes that surround it.

3. A Garden with Purpose: The “Seed Safari”

Wakehurst has mastered the art of “educational enchantment.” Last year’s Glow Wild light trail took visitors on a “Seed Safari,” turning the winter landscape into a glowing tribute to biodiversity. This ability to turn complex science into a magical family experience is exactly why visitor numbers continue to climb.

4. The Upcoming Henry Moore Exhibition

The momentum isn’t slowing down. In June 2026, Wakehurst will launch its highly anticipated Henry Moore outdoor exhibition. This will feature Moore’s iconic, monumental sculptures staged across the 535-acre landscape, alongside works by three internationally acclaimed contemporary artists. It’s set to be the South-East’s cultural event of the summer.

5. Landscapes for Every Season

Whether it’s the Magnolia displays over the Slips boardwalk in spring or the temperate woodlands and wetlands in autumn, Wakehurst offers a “tapestry” of gardens that change every week. It provides a rare sense of tranquillity and escape that you simply can’t find in London or the more crowded coastal spots.

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Plan Your Visit

• Location: Ardingly, Haywards Heath, Sussex. RH17 6TN.
• Open: Daily from 10:00 am.
• Book Tickets: Plan your trip and book directly via the Official Wakehurst Website.

David Ridings | Editor, 5 Things To Do Today Established 2012 | View our Media Kit