Autumn at Wakehurst: Your Guide to Fungi, Films and Lantern Trails

Wakehurst in West Sussex has announced its seasonal programme for late 2026 through early 2027, offering a variety of outdoor activities, family-focused trails, and the return of its signature winter lantern festival. The events run from October 2, 2026, through January 2, 2027, at the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew’s wild botanic garden in Ardingly, Haywards Heath (RH17 6TN).

Seasonal Highlights and Event Schedule

Visitors can plan their attendance around the following confirmed installations and events:

• Outdoor Cinema (October 2–4): Adventure Cinema hosts screenings under the night sky, featuring a mix of family-friendly films and seasonal cult classics.
• Wallace & Gromit: Fantastic Fungi Trail (October 17–November 1): A family-oriented exploration of the landscape designed to highlight the ‘tricks and treats’ of the fungal world. Activity booklets are available for £3 for non-members and are free for members.
• Glow Wild Lantern Trail (November 26–January 2): The garden’s flagship winter event returns with the theme ‘In Search of Nature’s Gifts.’ The trail operates on selected evenings from 4pm to 10pm.
• Henry Moore Sculpture Exhibition: Four iconic sculptures remain on display across the grounds through May 23, 2027, and are included with standard garden entry.

Practical Planning and Visitor Information

Standard entry fees apply for general access to the gardens, though specific events such as the outdoor cinema and the Glow Wild lantern trail require separate, pre-booked tickets. Prospective visitors should note that tickets for these events are managed via the official Kew website. Members of Kew and Wakehurst are entitled to benefits including free entry and access to exclusive preview opportunities for the Glow Wild trail.

For those interested in the scientific work conducted on-site, the Millennium Seed Bank remains open for exploration. Visitors can participate in free guided tours of the atrium on Mondays at 2pm, subject to availability. The Mansion also features restored spaces, including the Library and Chapel, which are open daily for public viewing.

Community Engagement and Wellbeing

Wakehurst continues its community-focused programming throughout the autumn and winter. Regular activities include the ‘Crafting for Connection’ adult group, dementia-friendly walks, and the ‘Roots and Rhythm’ sessions held in October. For active visitors, the site hosts a weekly Parkrun every Saturday at 9am, which is free to join for registered participants.

On-site cafes remain open throughout the season to provide food and drink. Dog owners are welcome to bring their pets daily, with a designated off-lead area available for exercise. Visitors are encouraged to check the official Kew website for the most current booking status and any potential changes to the event schedule before travelling.

Source: Royal Botanic Gardens Kew Press and Media