Secret Garden in the Ham

Secret Garden in the Ham is a calm, nature-based stay and play space for young children, set within a secure outdoor garden in Merstham, Surrey.

Rooted in a gentle, child-led ethos, the sessions invite children to explore freely at their own pace through mud, water, sand and seasonal activities. There are no set outcomes or rushed routines – just time, space and carefully considered resources that spark curiosity, creativity and connection with the natural world.

Children can dig, pour, mix potions, plant seeds, observe minibeasts and engage in open-ended play, while grown-ups relax with a warm drink or join in alongside them. The environment is designed to feel safe, unhurried and welcoming, supporting children to feel settled, confident and deeply engaged.

Sessions are small to maintain a peaceful atmosphere, and families of all abilities are warmly welcomed, including those with additional needs.

Secret Garden in the Ham is more than a play session – it’s a little pocket of calm where children (and their grown-ups) can slow down, connect and simply enjoy being outdoors together.