Neil Miller reports on the impact of record-breaking drought conditions across the south-east of England in 2026.
Neil Miller, head gardener at Hever Castle in Kent, observed that the south-east of England experienced a record-breaking summer of extreme heat and prolonged dry weather in 2026. The Met Office reported that July 2026 was the driest month in England since records began 190 years ago. This drought has impacted river levels, wetland ecosystems, and agricultural production, with some farmers feeding winter food supplies to livestock. Drone photographs and satellite imagery from the European Drought Observatory show extensive grass browning across southern Britain, including Hyde Park in London. The National Drought Group considers 70% of England to be in drought. While some households are subject to hosepipe bans due to high water demand, Mediterranean plants have thrived in the heat. Experts note that human activities, primarily greenhouse gas emissions, are the primary drivers of climate change, leading to more frequent and intense heatwaves and droughts.