Wakehurst named number one visitor attraction in Sussex two years running, according to ALVA figures 

Wakehurst is the number one visitor attraction in Sussex, for the second year running, according to new figures released today (Friday 20 March) by the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA), during English Tourism Week. 

The ALVA members’ visitor figures for 2025 show Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden in Sussex, has retained the top slot in the county for the second year running, as the number one visitor attraction and destination in Sussex, since 2024, placing it in the top 20 in the South-East (outside of London). 

Susan Raikes, Director of Wakehurst, commented: “I am delighted that Wakehurst has once again been recognised as Sussex’s top visitor attraction, and proud to see us ranked among the top 20 in the South-East.  

“Over the past year, we have worked hard to enrich every aspect of the Wakehurst experience—welcoming more visitors and creating truly memorable moments. Highlights include celebrating seed science and conservation to mark 25 years of Kew’s Millennium Seed Bank, reopening our Elizabethan Mansion with new exhibitions, and ending the year with an enchanting Seed Safari–themed Glow Wild light trail.

“Visitors are returning not only for our beautiful landscapes and inspiring events but because Wakehurst is a garden with purpose—a living laboratory, home to pioneering science and the world’s largest wild seed bank, dedicated to protecting and restoring nature. 

“We’re excited to welcome new visitors in the year ahead, especially with the launch of our Henry Moore and more outdoor exhibition in June, showcasing Moore’s iconic sculptures, alongside works by three internationally acclaimed contemporary artists.” 

Notes to editors  

About Wakehurst  

Wakehurst is Kew’s wild botanic garden in the Sussex High Weald. Its ancient and beautiful landscapes span 535-acres and are a place for escape, exploration, tranquillity, and wonder. Its diverse collection of plants from Britain and around the globe thrive within a tapestry of innovative gardens, temperate woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. Wakehurst is a centre for UK biodiversity and global conservation, seed research, and ecosystem science. At its heart is Kew’s Millennium Seed Bank, the world’s largest store of seeds from wild plant species.    

About ALVA

The Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA) represents the views and achievements of the UK’s foremost visitor attractions, including museums, galleries, and historic sites. ALVA’s Members are the UK's most popular, iconic, and important museums, galleries, palaces, castles, cathedrals, zoos, historic houses, heritage sites, gardens, and leisure attractions. www.alva.org.uk