Spring has officially arrived, and with it comes one of the most photogenic and feel-good seasonal activities, wandering through vibrant tulip fields and flower picking farms. Across Sussex, Surrey, London and Kent, a wave of colourful festivals are popping up, offering everything from pick-your-own blooms to stunning garden displays. Whether you’re planning a weekend day trip, looking for Instagram-worthy spots, or a family-friendly outdoor activity, here are 10 of the best tulip and flower festivals to visit this spring.
1. Tulleys Tulip Fest, Crawley, West Sussex
Running from early April to early May, this is the UK’s largest tulip festival, with over 1.5 million tulips across 100+ varieties . Expect huge colour fields, photo installations, live music and food stalls, plus limited flower picking opportunities.
2. Pashley Manor Tulip Festival, Ticehurst, East Sussex/Kent border
A more traditional garden experience, this festival showcases over 40,000 tulips in beautifully designed garden “rooms”. Ideal for a relaxed stroll and classic English garden vibes.
3. Hampton Court Palace Tulip Festival, East Molesey, Surrey
Set within 60 acres of historic gardens, this is one of the UK’s most impressive floral displays, with thousands of tulips planted across formal beds and courtyards.
4. Hever Castle Spring Festival, Hever, Kent
While not just tulips, this stunning spring event features seasonal blooms, including tulips and blossom displays, alongside garden tours and family-friendly activities.
5. Arundel Castle Tulip Festival, Arundel, West Sussex
A must-visit for flower lovers, Arundel Castle’s gardens burst into colour each spring with thousands of tulips set against a historic castle backdrop, perfect for photos.
6. RHS Garden Wisley Spring Displays, Woking, Surrey
One of the UK’s most famous gardens, Wisley comes alive in spring with extensive tulip displays and seasonal planting, offering inspiration for gardeners and casual visitors alike.
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7. Kew Gardens Spring Blooms, London
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is a spring highlight, with tulips planted throughout its vast grounds. Expect a mix of formal displays and wild-feeling floral landscapes in a UNESCO-listed setting.
8. St James’s Park & Hyde Park Tulips, London
For a free option, central London parks showcase stunning tulip beds each spring, offering an easy and accessible way to enjoy seasonal colour in the city.
9. Holland Park Dutch Garden, London
A hidden gem, this beautifully designed garden features symmetrical tulip displays inspired by traditional Dutch planting, perfect for a quieter floral escape.
10. Surrey & Sussex Pick-Your-Own Flower Farms (Seasonal)
Across the region, smaller farms begin opening in late spring with pick-your-own flowers (including tulips early in the season, followed by wildflowers and summer blooms). These offer a more hands-on experience compared to larger festivals.
Why Visit a Tulip Festival This Spring?
Tulip season is short but spectacular, typically running from late March to early May. Many festivals stagger planting to ensure blooms last longer, meaning no two visits are ever the same . From sprawling countryside fields to historic palace gardens and inner-city parks, there’s something for every kind of day out, whether you want a relaxed wander, a family activity, or a content-worthy backdrop.
Top Tips for Visiting
- Book ahead: The most popular festivals (especially Tulleys) sell out
- Visit midweek for fewer crowds
- Check bloom updates before travelling-timing varies with weather
- Wear suitable shoes-fields can get muddy
If you’re planning your spring calendar, these tulip and flower festivals are some of the best seasonal events in the South East and they won’t be around for long 🌷
