At last – the long awaited Day trip to

GREAT DIXTER & MERRIMENT GARDEN & NURSERY

The RCHS will be running a Coach Trip on Wednesday 9th September 2026 to these two fantastic gardens 

GREAT DIXTER

We have arranged a unique, one-time opportunity at Great Dixter. The Head Gardener and one of our principal Speakers at “An Evening With” Fergus Garrett will be guiding guests on a PRIVATE tour of Great Dixter Gardens. Typically, Fergus does not conduct private tours; however, on this special occasion, he will be available exclusively for us.

Sir Christopher Lloyd and Sir Edwin Lutyens initiated the development of the garden at Great Dixter. Nonetheless, it was Sir Christopher Lloyd, a renowned garden writer and television personality, who distinguished the garden’s fame. The garden exemplifies the Arts and Crafts style and features elements such as topiary, a lengthy border, an orchard, and a wildflower meadow. The planting scheme is abundant yet methodically arranged, showcasing numerous bold experiments in form, colour, and combination. Currently, the garden is overseen by Fergus Garrett, who worked closely with Lloyd until his passing in 2006 as Head Gardener and has introduced various innovations to the planting design.

Great Dixter is an unmissable horticultural delight. It is an exquisite garden that warrants repeated visits.

DIXTER

MERRIMENTS A New RHS Partner Garden

Merriments Garden in East Sussex is an extensive four-acre sanctuary renowned for its vibrant seasonal colours and innovative planting arrangements. Crafted with artistic sophistication, the garden presents a series of interconnected spaces, each distinguished by its unique character, ranging from expansive herbaceous borders to the refined simplicity of a medicinal garden. Each pathway encourages exploration, guiding visitors past ponds, secluded seating areas, and carefully curated vistas that exemplify the finest elements of English garden design.

Situated discreetly behind tall hedges, Merriments’ four-acre garden constitutes a concealed gem for horticultural enthusiasts. Our visually captivating, colour-themed borders, featuring inspiring plantings, are situated within the rolling countryside of East Sussex and transform throughout the seasons—from spring pastels to the fiery autumnal hues of the diverse trees. Exhibiting a relaxed, classic, yet contemporary style, the garden offers both formal and wild plantings, all on a gently sloping, south-facing site with ample parking and convenient access. Additionally, many of the plants cultivated in our garden are propagated on-site in our nursery and are available for purchase at the Plant Centre.

What makes Merriments truly special is its year-round appeal. Spring bursts with bulbs and fresh greenery, summer dazzles in fiery reds, oranges, and purples, and autumn softens into golden tones with ornamental grasses and late perennials. Even in winter, the garden’s structure and textures create a serene, sculptural beauty. More than a visual feast, Merriments demonstrates how colour, texture, and form can transform spaces. With an on-site café serving homemade meals, it’s the perfect destination for those seeking inspiration, tranquility, or simply a delightful day out immersed in horticultural creativity.

Pricing & Arrangements

RCHS Members £65.00 Per Member

Non RCHS Members £75.00 Per Person

COACH LEAVES RUISLIP    08.30am

ARRIVES AT MERRIMENTS 10.30am or before

LEAVE MERRIMENTS  1.30pm

ARRIVE DIXTER 2pm

LEAVE DIXTER 4.30pm

ARRIVE RUISLIP 6.30pm

Price Includes

• All Garden Entry costs
• Tour of DIXTER
• Coach Drivers’ Tip

Price Does NOT include

• Food & Drink Merriments has the most fantastic Restaurant Cafe where there will be time for Lunch or a snack. Dixter has a Cafe with light refreshments available 

We will make convenience stops on the way

ONLY 50 SEATS AVAILABLE

(The tickets available showing is JOINT not separate, between the two ticket types)

RESERVATIONS ARE NON REFUNDABLE OR TRANSFERABLE. IF YOU CANCEL WE WILL TRY AND RESELL YOUR TICKET HOWEVER THIS IS NOT GUARANTEED