Gardens to see in September - Merriments, East Sussex

Looking through the hedge into the water garden - Merriments is all about vistas

With autumn in the air, and torrential downpours around the country, it's hard to find gardens to visit at this time of year that still look good. But Merriments at Hurst Green in East Sussex is the exception, and when I visited last week, I was really impressed by the wonderful collage of colour here, when other gardens are definitely past their prime.

This four-acre garden is filled with ponds, pools, bridges and pergolas, set against a backdrop of boldly planted, colour-themed borders. And most impressive of all is the labelling, so if you see a plant you like, you have the opportunity to buy it in the well-stocked nursery at the end of your visit. Any budding plants person or novice gardener would be well advised to visit, to get good ideas for their own plot.

The gravel garden

Certainly a great place to go at any time of year, but looking particularly good at this time of year are the Gravel garden (above) and the water garden at the entrance (top and bottom), with its wide rills and dense planting. There are also lots of shady arbors to sit and enjoy the views.

Merriments is close enough to Sissinghurst to enjoy both properties in an afternoon, and Great Dixter is also within easy reach. But hurry, because all these gardens close at the end of September. Definitely one to put on your September visiting list, before we get into the autumn colours.