Become a Nature Detective this summer as Sir Harold Hillier Gardens presents The Summer Superpower Trail running from Monday 17th August to Monday 31st August 2026! Designed for curious minds and active families, this brand-new self-guided trail invites children to explore the world-famous 180-acre botanical gardens while learning how plants and wildlife hide, dazzle, protect, and survive the impossible in nature.
Event Schedule & Timetable
The Summer Superpower Trail runs daily throughout the second half of August at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens:
- Trail Dates: Monday 17th August – Monday 31st August 2026
- Daily Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Garden grounds remain open until 6:00 PM in summer)
- Venue Location: Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Jermyns Lane, Ampfield, near Romsey, Hampshire (SO51 0QA)
Attractions & Event Highlights
An engaging self-guided adventure turning young visitors into active Nature Detectives:
- Interactive Family Trail: Kids explore secret botanical superpowers, discovering how plants and animals dazzle, hide, protect, and survive.
- 180-Acre Exploration: Set across world-famous award-winning gardens featuring tree collections, woodland walks, and children’s play features.
- Free August Child Entry: All children receive free admission to the gardens throughout August 2026.
- On-Site Dining: Refuel at the Courtyard Café or Garden Restaurant & Tea Rooms serving hot meals, seasonal snacks, and ice creams.
Ticket Types & Pricing
Admission and trail breakdown:
- Trail Sheet Fee: £3.00 per trail sheet (Purchase directly at the Ticket Desk upon arrival)
- Members: FREE garden entry (Only pay £3.00 for the trail sheet)
- Children (Ages 0–16): FREE garden entry during August 2026
- Standard Adult Garden Admission: £18.25 (Without Gift Aid: £16.59)
- Concession Garden Admission: £17.00 (Without Gift Aid: £15.45)
How to Get to Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is situated roughly 2 miles north-east of Romsey:
- By Car: Easily accessible from Southampton via the A3057 / A3090 toward Romsey, following Jermyns Lane (SatNav: SO51 0QA).
- By Bus: Local bus connections running between Romsey and Winchester stop along Winchester Road, a short distance from the entrance.
- By Train: Romsey Railway Station is approximately 3 miles away, where local taxis can complete the short journey.
Parking Information
Parking options at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens:
- On-Site Visitor Parking: Ample complimentary visitor parking is provided right next to the Visitor Centre.
- Electric Vehicle Charging: EV charging points are available on site for visitors.
Discover More Local Events
Looking for more exciting things to do across the region? Check out our complete list of What’s On in Southampton to discover the latest children’s trails, outdoor nature activities, botanical garden events, and family days out near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is The Summer Superpower Trail taking place?
- The trail runs daily from Monday 17th August to Monday 31st August 2026, operating between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
- Where is the trail located?
- The trail is held at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Jermyns Lane, Ampfield, near Romsey, Hampshire (SO51 0QA).
- How much does the trail cost?
- Trail sheets are £3.00 per child (available at the Ticket Desk), in addition to standard garden admission fees.
- Is garden entry free for children during August?
- Yes! All children receive free admission to Sir Harold Hillier Gardens throughout August 2026.
- Do members get free access to the trail?
- Members receive free entry to the gardens, but still need to pay £3.00 per trail sheet at the Ticket Desk.
- Do I need to book admission tickets in advance?
- No pre-booking is required; day admission tickets and trail sheets can be purchased on arrival at the Ticket Desk.
- What is the age recommendation for the trail?
- The trail is designed as a family activity suitable for children of all ages. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
- How long does the trail take to complete?
- The self-guided trail typically takes between 1 and 2 hours to explore across the 180-acre garden grounds.
- Are there food and refreshment facilities on site?
- Yes, visitors can dine at the Courtyard Café or the Garden Restaurant & Tea Rooms, serving hot food, drinks, snacks, and ice creams.
- Is parking free at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens?
- Yes, free visitor parking is available on site right next to the Visitor Centre, complete with electric vehicle charging stations.