As the leaves begin to turn and the gardens take on their autumn colours, Hever Castle is inviting visitors to enjoy a season of nature, gardening and outdoor discovery.
From 28th September to 1st November 2026, Hever Castle’s Autumn Colour event will showcase the gardens at one of their most beautiful times of year. Visitors can explore the seasonal displays, join expert-led talks and tours, take part in hands-on workshops and discover more about the plants, trees and wildlife that make autumn such a special season.
Visitors are encouraged to take time to explore the gardens, where a self-guided trail will showcase the changing colours of the season. Mature trees, autumn foliage and late-season planting provide plenty to discover throughout the grounds.
Throughout the event programme, leading experts will share their passion and knowledge of the natural world.
On 14th October, visitors will have the rare opportunity to hear from one of Britain’s most respected tree specialists, Tony Kirkham MBE, former Head of the Arboretum at Kew Gardens. In his fascinating talk, Remarkable Trees That I Have Met on My Travels, Tony will recount extraordinary encounters with some of the world’s most remarkable trees before leading a special tour through the grounds.
For those intrigued by the growing interest in nature and wellbeing, award-winning Forest Bathing practitioner Tansy will host a series of relaxed Q&A sessions exploring how spending mindful time in nature can boost wellbeing, creativity and mental clarity. Visitors will discover simple ways to bring the benefits of nature connection into everyday life.
Fun with Fungi takes place on 15th and 16th October, when RHS Gold Medal-winning duo Lorraine Caley and Jodie Bryan, the “Caley Brothers”, will share their passion for mushroom growing and explain why fungi are so important to healthy ecosystems.
Dahlia expert Steve Edney from The No Name Nursery will lead a presentation and guided tour on 7th and 8th October, showcasing the wide range of dahlias growing at Hever Castle and sharing tips on their cultivation and care.
Families can get creative with Yuki Solle from Cultivate Life on selected weekends in October. The hands-on workshops will include making upcycled jam jar lanterns and autumn mini wreaths, with plenty of practical tips on sustainable living along the way.
Whether you’re a passionate gardener, a lover of nature, a creative spirit or simply looking for a memorable autumn day out, Autumn Colour at Hever Castle offers the perfect opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature and experience the beauty of the season.
Autumn Colour at Hever Castle Highlights:
- Self-guided autumn garden tours daily
- Forest Bathing Q&A Sessions – 29th & 30th September
- Steve Edney Dahlia Presentation & Tour – 7th & 8th October
- Tony Kirkham MBE Talk & Tour – 14th October
- Fun with Fungi with the Caley Brothers – 15th & 16th October
- Sustainable autumn crafts with Yuki Solle – selected weekends in October
Most activities are included with admission to Hever Castle & Gardens. For full details of what’s on and when during Autumn Colour, please see the web page: www.hevercastle.co.uk/whats-on.
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