Summer Garden Games 2026

Get ready for old-fashioned outdoor fun as Exbury Gardens brings back its popular Summer Garden Games throughout the summer holidays 2026! Set against 200 acres of stunning woodland gardens, families can challenge each other to a lineup of classic garden games including egg and spoon races, sack races, tug of war, and limbo—all included at no extra cost with standard garden entry or membership.

Event Schedule & Opening Times

The Summer Garden Games run daily throughout the summer holidays at Exbury Gardens:

• Event Dates: Running daily throughout August 2026 (Summer School Holidays)
• Daily Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
• Activity Availability: Games equipment is set up and accessible on the event lawns throughout the day
• Venue Location: Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway, Exbury, near Beaulieu, Southampton (SO45 1AZ)

Attractions & Event Highlights

Enjoy nostalgic lawn games and classic school-style sports day fun for all ages:

• Egg and Spoon Race: Test your balance and speed on the grass.
• Sack Race: Hop your way to victory in traditional burlap sacks.
• Tug of War & Wheelbarrow Race: Team up for energetic group challenges and family showdowns.
• Bean Bag Challenge & Limbo: Practice target throwing or see how low you can go under the limbo bar.
• Hula Hooping & Skipping: Classic lawn equipment available for free play throughout the day.
• Full Day Out: Explore 200 acres of woodland trails, ride the steam railway, or drop into Mr Eddy’s Restaurant for refreshments.

Ticket Types & Pricing

Participation in the Summer Garden Games is included with regular garden entry:

• Friends of Exbury Members: FREE
• Standard Gardens Admission: Standard seasonal garden entry rates apply
• Steam Railway Add-on: £7.50 per person

How to Get to Exbury Gardens

Exbury Gardens is situated on the Beaulieu Peninsula in the New Forest:

• By Car: From the M27, take Junction 2 onto the A326 towards Dibden Purlieu, following the brown tourist signs for Exbury Gardens (SO45 1AZ).
• By Train: Brockenhurst and Southampton Central are the closest rail stations, with local taxi options to complete your journey.
• By Bus: Take advantage of the seasonal New Forest Tour bus (Green Route), which stops directly at Exbury Gardens during the summer.

Parking Information

Parking options at Exbury Gardens:

• Main Visitor Car Park: FREE parking available on-site right outside the main visitor entrance.
• Accessible Parking: Dedicated Blue Badge parking bays positioned closest to the ticket gates.

Frequently Asked Questions

When are the Summer Garden Games taking place?

The games are running daily throughout the summer school holiday period in August 2026.

Where is Exbury Gardens located?

Exbury Gardens is located in Exbury, near Beaulieu, Southampton (SO45 1AZ).

Is there an extra fee to participate in the Summer Garden Games?

No, participation in all garden games is completely free with standard garden admission or Friends of Exbury membership.

What traditional games are available to play?

Games include the egg and spoon race, sack race, hula hooping, skipping, wheelbarrow race, tug of war, bean bag challenge, and limbo.

What are the daily opening hours for Exbury Gardens?

The gardens are open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with last admission at 4:30 PM.

Do I need to book the garden games in advance?

No separate booking is required for the games; equipment is available on the garden lawns for drop-in family play throughout the day.

Is parking free at Exbury Gardens?

Yes, on-site parking is free for all visitors.

Are Friends of Exbury members free?

Yes, admission and entry to all garden games are free for Friends of Exbury members.

Can we ride the steam train on the same day?

Yes, steam train rides along the Exbury Rhododendron Line are available for an additional £6.00 per person.

Are dogs allowed at Exbury Gardens during the games?

Yes, well-behaved dogs kept on short leads are welcome throughout the gardens.