Great Things To Do In Sussex 2025
Whether you are fortunate enough to live in this glorious county or you are visiting to explore the area, Sussex has something for everyone – whatever mood or vibe you are feeling. This helpful 2025 guide to events and attractions across Sussex proves just how much there is to do and see across the county.
The diverse landscape offers opportunities for nature and city lovers to indulge in exciting adventures. If you love the coast, explore beautiful beaches and dramatic chalk cliff trails and The South Downs National Park and Ashdown Forest are a nature lover's paradise. History and culture abound, with ancient castles and historic properties to discover, or encounter top-class theatre productions and art performances across the region.
Sussex has an abundance of events from festivals and live performances to garden shows and family fetes. With so many exciting experiences to enjoy throughout the year, there is no shortage of fun to be had for all the family, with adventure parks for young explorers and stately homes and gardens for a more sedate amble. Sussex really is a special place to discover – enjoy!
Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens
With over 200 years of history, Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens is a 240-acre estate in the Sussex High Weald National Landscape. Renowned as the ‘finest woodland gardens in England’, it features an award-winning rhododendron & azalea collection, eight lakes, deer park, wallaby colony, and over 150 sculptures. Exciting new additions include a brand-new play park, perfect for little explorers, and a refurbished Garden Shop & Plant Centre.
Horsham, West Sussex, RH13 6PP www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk 0330 123 5893 info@leonardsleegardens.co.uk 1
Highlights also include Michelin star Restaurant Interlude, ‘Beyond the Dolls’ House’ exhibition, a vineyard, and a rock garden. With stunning views year-round, it’s perfect for family outings, solo adventures, or cherished moments with loved ones. Open daily.
Leonardslee Wine Estate at Mannings Heath
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An English haven of wine, golf, and culinary artistry in the heart of West Sussex. Savour our exceptional wines at the Leonardslee Tasting Room, play a round on the championship Waterfall golf course, enjoy lunch at The Vineyard Kitchen or stay at The Vineyard Hotel, our exclusive 9-bedroom retreat.
Discover a journey of refined craftsmanship, where every moment becomes extraordinary. Open daily.
Hammerpond Road, Mannings Heath, RH13 6PG 0330 123 5891 info@leonardslee.co.uk
Inspired by the Baroque palaces of Europe, Petworth House & Park is an extraordinary and surprising ancestral seat created by one family over 900 years. The 17th-century building you see today comprises grand state rooms which form the centrepiece of your visit. Designed to display the taste, lifestyle and artistic patronage of generations, the state rooms offer an infinity of paintings and sculpture, including major works by Van Dyck, Turner, Reynolds and
Gainsborough. This remarkable collection reflects a family’s journey of survival and success through the Tudor Reformation, Gunpowder Plot and the Napoleonic Wars.
Note: a small number of rooms close on rotation during the winter for conservation. Please check website before visiting: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/petworth 01798 342207 email: petworth@nationaltrust.org.uk
The modernist home and studio of the artists Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant, Charleston was a gathering point for some of the 20th century’s most radical writers, artists and thinkers known collectively as the Bloomsbury group.
Nestled at the foot of the South Downs in Sussex, visitors can explore the house – every inch painted in iconic Bloomsbury designs and discover the
magical walled garden filled with sculpture. Visit the café, shop and experience contemporary exhibitions in the gallery spaces alongside a year-round programme of festivals, exhibitions and events. www.charleston.org.uk 01323 811626 info@charleston.org.uk
St Mary’s House and Gardens in Bramber
Sunday and Thursday afternoons: 2 to 6pm, last entry 4.30pm
This historic Pilgrim Inn, c1470, is a Sussex Grade I listed building which is of national importance, included in Sir Simon Jenkins’ book ‘England’s Thousand Best Houses’. The current owners restored it over 40 years ago and still live there. It has rare and fascinating interiors, including fine panelling, wall-leather, and an elegant Music Room.
The 5 acres of garden are beautifully
maintained. Designed and grown by the owners, with the wonderful help of dedicated volunteers. Visitors can explore a series of different ‘garden rooms’, a Topiary Garden, Jubilee Rose Garden, circular Poetry Garden, and Water Garden with small lake. There is also a delightful tearoom to enjoy refreshments.
www.stmarysbramber.co.uk info@stmarysbramber.co.uk St. Mary’s House, Bramber, West Sussex BN44 3WE
iacf Ardingly International Antiques Fair
The iacf Ardingly International Antiques Fair at the South of England Showground is a must-see for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're new to antiques or a seasoned collector, this vibrant fair offers a treasure trove of vintage finds and unique items from hundreds of stalls. Set in the stunning Sussex countryside, it’s a perfect day out for all ages. This year, the June fair runs on a Friday and Saturday – don’t miss it!
The Petworth Festival
The Petworth Festival, 'A World Class Arts Festival in the South Downs’, holds a very special place in the life and culture of the local community. It has gained a national reputation for the remarkable quality and diversity of its events.
The summer festival, an established part of the regional diary for over 40 years, plus the much-admired Petworth Literary Festival, both
Tuesday 22–Wednesday 23 April, Friday 20–Saturday 21 June, Tuesday 22–Wednesday 23 July, Tuesday 2–Wednesday 3 September, Tuesday 4–Wednesday 5 November 2025. South of England Showground, Ardingly, West Sussex, RH17 6TL www.iacf.co.uk/ardingly 01636 702326 Enquiries@iacf.co.uk
bring top quality and household names to our doorsteps. The festivals are built on the solid foundation of a growing and diverse audience from the local area, across Sussex and the South Downs.
Petworth Festival: 17 July - 2 August 2025 Petworth Literary Festival: 29 Oct - 9 Nov 2025 www.petworthfestival.org.uk
Paradise Park & Gardens offers a fantastic mix of nature, history, and family fun. Discover the wonders of life in the Planet Earth Museum, where the fascinating story of plants and animals unfolds from prehistoric times to the present day.
Follow the Sussex Heritage Trail, featuring detailed models that bring the region’s rich history to life. As you wander through the beautifully themed gardens, spot landmarks, historic buildings, and moments from Sussex’s past, all set among stunning flowering trees and shrubs.
Explore the plant house, home to a spectacular collection of exotic flora from around the world, designed by award-winning garden designer
Juliet Sargeant, who also created parts of the surrounding gardens.
Step into the Dinosaur Safari, where life-sized dinosaurs and Jurassic sounds transport you back to the prehistoric age. Families will love the crazy golf, miniature railway, soft play area, and both indoor and outdoor adventure play zones. After a day of exploring, relax at the terrace café or browse the garden centre for plants and gifts.
Paradise Park & Gardens is open daily 9am to 6pm (except 25/26 Dec) with free parking and easy access. A must-visit for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and families looking for a great day out! www.paradisepark.co.uk 01273 512123
Walking The Way of Sussex
Sussex is blessed with some of the most stunning countryside the UK has to offer, particularly in places like the High Weald, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the South Downs National Park, where you can find as many as 40 types of wildflowers and 20 different butterfly species in just one square metre! And what better way to explore these beautiful places than on foot?
Fortunately, Sussex is also home to many walking trails, both long and short, which not only allow access to some of the county’s most idyllic spots but are also packed with history too; you may just be out for a quiet walk with your dog, but you could be following in some famous footsteps.
The best known of all the trails in Sussex is probably the South Downs Way, a 160km path that stretches all the way from Winchester to Eastbourne. Officially established in 1972, it became the fifth of the UK’s national trails (there are now as many as 17) and was formed by connecting several ancient paths and bridleways, some of which are believed to date back as far as 8,000 years.
There’s also the Monarch’s Way, a long and meandering trail used by King Charles II to escape after his defeat to Oliver Cromwell’s army at the Battle of Worcester. The path winds its way south from there via Bristol and Yeovil until reaching Sussex, where it passes through Arundel, Brighton and Hove to reach Shoreham-by-Sea, from where Charles fled to safety in France.
Another more recently established trail is the Cuckmere Pilgrim Path, based on the historic ‘Old Way’ used by Christians to travel between five holy sites. The modern version was established in 2018 by connecting two more churches to the trail to form a circular route and it’s one of the shorter trails in Sussex, along with others like the Cuckoo Trail, which runs for 14 miles from Hampden Park to Heathfield, and the Five Hundred Acre Circular near Hartfield, the former home of Winnie the Pooh creator A. A. Milne.
Step into medieval history at Bodiam Castle. Let your imagination soar as you climb the towers, walk across the battlements, and spot the original portcullis. Relax in the tea-room, browse the shop, and enjoy events throughout the year. Bodiam, near Robertsbridge, TN32 5UA. Free entry for National Trust members. Bodiam, near Robertsbridge, TN32 5UA. Free entry for National Trust members. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiam-castle
Enjoy acres of parkland and gardens at Sheffield Park and Garden, famous for the stunning mirrorlike reflections of its lakes. Many of the trees were planted for their vivid autumn colour whilst winter displays their structural beauty. Spring and summer bring vibrant blooms and bold splashes of colour. The historic parkland offers further adventures in riverside meadows and woods. www.nationaltrust.org/ sheffield-park-and-garden
The 54th Annual Rye Arts Festival
Rye Arts Festival takes place 12 to 28 September 2025 in the beautiful medieval Cinque Ports Town. Featuring classical, blues, folk and popular music, plus drama, films, talks, literary events and walks. There are over 50 events in a packed fortnight, featuring artistes from around the world as well as locals with a story to tell or a
song to sing. All set amongst the backdrops of one of England’s most picturesque small towns, which is well worth the visit anyway!
To find out who the headline acts are, and the full programme as it is announced, go to the website: www.ryeartsfestival.org.uk
©National Trust
Images/Lucy Evans
©National Trust
Images/Andrew Butler
Swains are all about community, quality products, and good old-fashioned hospitality. They aim to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere where locals can come together to find the freshest produce, the finest gardening supplies, and the friendliest service. Open: Mon to Sat 8:30am-6pm and Sun 10am-4pm www.swainsfarmshop.com 01273 494582
Brighton Rd, Woodmancote, Henfield BN5 9RP
All England Jumping Course at Hickstead
Enjoy top class international show jumping including The Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby Meeting (19-22 June) and The Agria Royal International Horse Show (22-27 July). With so much to enthral and entertain including a vast range of bars, restaurants, and hospitality options to make your visit truly memorable, plus over 100 pop-up shops and fun for all the family. Find out more at: www.hickstead.co.uk
Lewes Bonfire – A Tradition of Sussex
Come rain or shine, this long-running event takes place in the streets of Lewes every November 5 and is one of the most famous bonfire celebrations in the world. Starting proceedings from late afternoon, Lewes is famous for its large numbers of local societies forming a procession
through the town, along with its iconic effigies, many of which are based on political characters and public figures. The roads in and around the town are shut from mid-afternoon so it’s best to arrive early and use public transport. www.lewesbonfirecelebrations.com
High Beeches
A glorious 27-acre woodland and water garden with a collection of rare, exotic and award-winning plants. One of the Sussex's finest gardens and home to a plant collection that includes specimens from many parts of the world. High Beeches is a botanical treasure trove and a unique place of great beauty and tranquillity. A spectacular wildflower meadow is at its best in June and autumn brings a superb display of autumn colour. www.highbeeches.com
Hammerwood Park
Set within picturesque parkland, Hammerwood Park is a Grade I listed country house and the first work of architect Benjamin Latrobe, celebrated for his later contributions to the White House and the Capitol in Washington D.C. Since 1982, the house has been home to the Pinnegar family, who saved the property from dereliction and now welcome visitors for guided tours, teas and concerts in the summer season. www.hammerwoodpark.co.uk
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The Seasons Kitchen is a charming organic vegetarian and vegan café located in Forest Row, East Sussex. When dining at The Seasons Kitchen, your money will stay in the local community, support regenerative farming, boost organic agriculture, reduce food waste, and help change the system! The café offers a diverse selection of vibrant vegan and sumptuous vegetarian dishes, all The Seasons Forest Row
crafted with care using locally sourced, organic ingredients from The Seasons shop. Customers can choose to dine in or opt for ready-to-go takeaway lunches. The café is open 7 days a week, and the menu is tailored for all diets, offering a seasonal home-cooked menu. Instagram: @seasonswholefoods Find out more at: www.season-kitchen.co.uk
Sussex Celebrates Food & Drink
Sussex has a long tradition when it comes to producing alcoholic drinks, stretching all the way back to the monks who brewed their own beer – often in very large quantities – at Lewes Priory. In fact, Lewes has continued to be something of a beer-brewing hotspot and is home to Harvey’s, the oldest brewery in Sussex, as well as the many newer ‘craft’ breweries and taprooms that have opened their doors in recent years – a trend that also stretches into places like Brighton.
Sussex is also one of the few places in the UK with a reputation for producing great wines – especially the sparkling variety – thanks in part to the relatively sunny climate, but also due to some unique geological features which give the chalky soil very similar characteristics to that used to grow grapes in the Champagne region in France.
Food lovers are just as well catered-for as beer and wine drinkers in Sussex, whether you’re the fine dining type or someone who loves to try out some tasty street food from a range of cultures and cuisines. Sussex is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants (and many more featured in the Michelin Guide), but also plays host to a fantastic array of food festivals throughout the year.
The travelling Taste of the Caribbean Festival visits several Sussex locations over the summer, including Hove, Worthing and Haywards Heath, while the annual Foodies Festival takes place in Preston Park in May. If you fancy something a little spicy, try the Fiery Foods Festival near Brighton’s i360, or the Cheese & Chilli Festival in Chichester, both of which will provide plenty of ways to light your tastebuds on fire!
Parham House & Gardens
Set within an ancient deer park below the South Downs, Parham is one of the country’s finest Elizabethan Houses. Parham has always been a well-loved family home, and only three families have lived here since its foundation stone was laid in 1577. Its tranquillity and timeless beauty have changed little over the centuries. Pulborough, RH20 4HR www.parhaminsussex.co.uk
Shoreham Art Gallery is run by a group of over twenty artists working together to create a friendly gallery with regular changing exhibitions and monthly guest artists. You‘ll find a wide range of original, imaginative and affordable pieces from paintings, lino-prints, mosaics, photography, stained-glass, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, turned wood, jewellery
Brighton Open Air Theatre
Brighton Open Air Theatre is a beautiful amphitheatre set in the luscious surroundings of Dyke Road Park. Open for the summer months, productions range from theatre, music, comedy, family shows, drag, dance and much more. Bring a picnic and enjoy first class entertainment beneath the sunshine. www.brightonopenairtheatre.co.uk hello@brightonopenairtheatre.co.uk
and so much more. Discover the delights of the hidden sculpture garden. This bright and busy gallery can be found close to Shorehamby-Sea railway station. It’s at the heart of the community and amongst the many independent shops, cafes and attractions. Looking forward to seeing you soon. www.shorehamgallery.co.uk
Shoreham Art Gallery
1 1 Chichester Festival Theatre
Festival 2025 is set to dazzle with an electrifying lineup of productions! From the spectacle of Top Hat to classics like Anna Karenina and Lord of the Flies, it’s pure theatrical magic. In the Minerva, enjoy music including The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry with a stunning score by Passenger. CFT can’t wait to welcome you for an unforgettable season of storytelling! 01243 781312 www.cftorg.uk
Pallant House Gallery 30
Pallant House Gallery is a public art gallery, offering critically-acclaimed exhibitions and a world-class collection of Modern British art, set within a beautiful 18th century townhouse and distinctive contemporary wing. Visitors can enjoy a regular programme of talks, tours and workshops for adults, children and
Horsham Museum & Art Gallery
Visit Horsham Museum and discover fascinating local history with gallery displays that span centuries. There’s something for all ages and family groups can enjoy year-round children’s trails and craft sessions in the school holidays. Open 10am – 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday and bank holidays. Entry is free.
Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1HE 01403 254 959 museum@horsham.gov.uk
families throughout the year. There’s something for everyone, with a café offering coffee, cake, lunches and afternoon teas in a stunning courtyard garden and an award-winning bookshop. www.pallant.org.uk info@pallant.org.uk 01243 774557
Images by Chris Ison
Centre
Arundel Wetland Centre is a gorgeous wetland reserve with boat rides, wildlife hides and a beautiful boardwalk through one of the largest reed beds in Sussex. It is also home to a collection of 30 species of wetland birds from around the world, including the Dalmatian pelican, the largest pelicans in the world with a wingspan of 10 feet! www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/arundel
The Bluebell Railway 36
The Bluebell Railway is more than just a train ride. Throughout 2025 the railway has lots of fantastic events taking place throughout the year. From family fun days including Dinosaurs, Bluebell Railway Music Festival and much more. There are also fantastic dining and supper trains throughout 2025 such as the Wealden Rambler and Golden Arrow fine dining trains. Plus, special enthusiast events such as Diesel Gala,
Wilderness Wood
A 60-acre, family-owned woodland with an A-Z trail, refreshments hatch, and activities and food pop-ups during the holidays. Enjoy arts, crafts, woodworking and well-being workshops and courses for all ages – plus seasonal events throughout the year. Spaces available to hire for weddings and other family parties. Open Tuesday to Sunday. www.wildernesswood.org
and Giants of Steam to name a few. The Bluebell Railway will be hosting a three-month event over the summer to mark Railway 200 which will celebrate, educate and inspire the public about rail past, present and future. www.bluebell-railway.com Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station, TN22 3QL enquiries@bluebell-railway.com
37 Rampion Visitor Centre
Brighton & Hove Greyhound Racing
Feel the thrill of live greyhound racing at Coral Brighton & Hove Stadium – an electrifying venue packed with history, excitement, and unique events, 5 times a week! Whether you are looking for a weekend activity or just an afternoon out, we have got you covered! www.brightonandhovegreyhounds.co.uk 01273 013334
Hove.stadium@coral.co.uk
The Rampion Wind Farm Visitor Centre is an exciting and interactive educational experience for children and adults of all ages. It houses hands-on exhibitions, interactive displays, games and videos, as well as a 360˚ Virtual Reality experience that will take you out to the wind farm itself! Free Entry. www.rampionoffshore.com/visitor-centre 01273 728425
visitorcentre@rampionoffshore.com 38
Sussex Business Conference & Awards 39
This business event on Thursday 9 October, 10am3pm is a must-attend for SMEs in Sussex. It offers a platform to gain valuable insights, network with other businesses, and exchange ideas. The event features high-profile motivational speakers sharing expertise on business strategy, leadership, and innovation. This year’s headline speaker is Sussex based, serial entrepreneur Jo Fairley, co-creator of Green & Black’s – the world’s first organic and fair-trade chocolate. With many other enterprising ventures, Jo is also an awardwinning journalist and she continues to be in high demand as a brand consultant for start-ups and ethical businesses. There will be inspirational business awards recognising the achievements of local businesses, as well as industry and business stands.Conveniently located off the A23 at The All England Jumping Course, Hickstead. Free to attend.
www.sussexbusinessconference.co.uk
The All England Jumping Course, Hickstead, Sayers Common, BN6 9NS
Festival Fever in Sussex
Sussex is host to a dizzying array of festivals throughout the year and whether you’re into music, food, automobiles, arts and crafts, or something altogether more traditional, there’s a festival to suit your interests.
Music lovers, in particular, are spoilt for choice over the festival season. Jazz fans are ably catered for by the annual Love Supreme festival, held every June in the picturesque environs of Glynde in the South Downs, while those of a more classical disposition can find an eclectic programme of world-class opera performances at Glyndebourne from May until August.
If the opera is a little too highbrow, there are plenty of contemporary options available across the summer. The Great Escape is an annual showcase of upand-coming talent hosted at venues across Brighton’s city centre in May and features a multitude of different styles and genres to suit most tastes. Round off the season in September with high energy and great vibes at Boundary Festival in Brighton’s Stanmer Park. There are even family-friendly options like Elderflower Fields, hosted in Ashdown Forest, which combines music with a range of activities such as archery, parkour and kayaking.
Goodwood near Chichester is probably best known to most as the home of motoring events such as the Festival of Speed in July and Goodwood Revival, an annual celebration of all things vintage held in September, where visitors can enjoy everything from classic cars and Spitfire flypasts to a retro film experience at the drive-in cinema.
Sussex is also home to a wide range of arts festivals, from the eclectic Brighton Fringe, which runs from May to June to the more low-key Artists Open Houses and Artwave in Lewes and surrounding villages. And we haven’t even mentioned the ever-popular Pride events held in Brighton and Worthing every year!
Whatever you’re into, Sussex is bound to have a festival just for you!
More Radio Live!
More Radio Live is back at Worthing’s Steyne Gardens so mark your calendars for Saturday, 16 August. Get ready for an unforgettable night packed with amazing tribute acts that will keep you dancing all evening long.
Get ready to swoon as our tribute to Harry Styles sings hits Adore You and Watermelon Sugar. Legendary Oasis tribute act will have us all singing to classics like Wonderwall, Champagne Supernova, and Don’t Look Back in Anger. Then dance along to Kylie Minogue as the pop princess tribute performs anthems like Padam and The Loco-Motion. Finally enjoy the buzz as tribute to boy band Take That storm the stage with hits such as Patience and Never Forget. Come along to experience an electrifying evening of authentic music!
Don’t miss out on this amazing night of live music, fab food, drink, and fun! Grab your tickets early for discounts through the Hidden website! For tickets and more information see: www.hiddenmembership.com/more-radio-live
Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club
The club has just finished its eighth successful season in the Premier League with fans travelling from all around the country and world to experience matchdays at the Amex. Outside of matchdays there is still plenty to do and see when visiting the stadium. During the Amex stadium tours, visitors will get to see all areas of the stadium including behind-the-scenes locations. You’ll see the home dressing room, take
your seat in the dugout and see how the players feel when walking through the tunnel, as well as an inside look at the award-winning Tunnel Club experience. If you’re hungry, The Terrace, a brandnew digital sports bar, is always open for a spot of lunch or a coffee before visiting the redeveloped club superstore to get your official Albion kit. Visit brightonandhovealbion.com or follow @OfficialBHAFC 43
Named one of the most Instagrammable places to visit and one of the top dog-friendly towns in the UK, Eastbourne is a must-visit destination this year.
Home of Towner Eastbourne – one of the UK’s leading art galleries, and the eastern gateway to the South Downs National Park, there is a myriad of walking paths and cycle trails to explore. Hop on the open topped sightseeing bus or jump aboard a high-speed RIB to see the famous Beachy Head lighthouse up close.
Ride the miniature steam railway or visit one of the many theme parks – from wildlife parks to pirate adventures – there’s even an indoor city for kids! Plus mini golf, a watersports centre and a wave pool with flume (seasonal) – there is plenty of fun to be had by all.
A trip to Eastbourne isn’t complete without a ride on the seafront Dotto Train. Hop on and off along the prom between Holywell and Sovereign Harbour – where you’ll find the perfect stop for a spot of lunch by the sparkling marina.
Enjoy shopping and artisan markets at the harbour, or dine around the world at Victoria Place – a restaurant and retail hub near the pier. All this and a major shopping mall, nightly Bandstand concerts, theatre shows, world-class tennis and aerobatics from the UK’s ‘Best Free Airshow’.
www.VisitEastbourne.com
Eastbourne Visitor Centre, Compton Street, Eastbourne BN21 4BP 01323 415415
The Waterfront in Sovereign Harbour
The Waterfront at Sovereign Harbour is the place to enjoy a family day out, an evening with friends or just some quality self-care alone time.
FOOD & DRINK Enjoy delicious food and drink with an array of cuisines to choose from across the waterside cafés, bars and restaurants. Sit back and relax with marina views from inside seating, al fresco dining or enjoy hot and cold food and drinks to takeaway.
PAMPER & SHOP Treat yourself to a day of self-care with pampering treatments available at the onsite hair and beauty salon. Plus, with a dedicated convenience store and an onsite lettings and estate agents, there’s a wide range of purchases to be made.
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Keep entertained all year round with an annual events programme that celebrates local community including seasonal artisan markets, car rallies, a pop-up urban beach, character entertainers and more! With free parking and options to explore the local harbour, beaches and tourist attractions by foot and by boat, you’ll always have something to explore and do at The Waterfront. The Waterfront, Eastbourne, BN23 5UZ
Facebook: TheWaterfrontEastbourne
Instagram: eastbournewaterfront www.eastbournewaterfront.co.uk
Cuckmere Buses, a voluntary service, runs scheduled services in the Eastbourne, Hailsham, Cuckmere Valley, Seaford and Lewes area. They also run several leisure services to local tourist attractions and provide private hires. Enquiries from new drivers are welcome. See the website for full details: www.cuckmerebuses.org.uk info@cuckmerebuses.org.uk
A weekend of music, ecology and well-being to nourish your soul. Something magical is happening deep in the Ashdown Forest this August! A camping weekend filled with worldclass music, inspirational talks, workshops, classes, an outdoor spa with treatments and wild swimming. Enjoy live music and DJs including Solid Crew’s Romeo and Lisa Mafia, Paul Simon's Graceland - Reimagined by The London African Gospel Choir and General Levy. In addition there are talks, yoga classes and afternoon workshops or one of the many activities such as falconry or a
Heathfield Farmers’ Market
Heathfield Farmers’ Market is held on the third Saturday of every month in the Co-op car park at 110 High Street, Heathfield. The market runs from 9am to 12.30pm with FREE parking. There is always a good selection of fresh seasonal produce available and plenty of craft stalls to browse. www.heathfield.net/farmers-market
guided nature walk. The younger members of the society can head down to The Hive each day for a rambunctious range of games and activities!
Camping is the best way to enjoy the weekend; in a tent, a yurt or your camper, there’s plenty of room to lay back and watch the stars. Enjoy activities; a wellbeing area with wood-burning saunas, jacuzzis and a plunge pool in the peace garden. One-on-one healing treatments and a venue dedicated to talks with inspiring thought leaders. www.goodvibrationssociety.com Pippingford Park, The Ashdown Forest
Goodwood
Give me Goodwood on a summer’s day…
Set within the heart of the South Downs National Park, the Goodwood Estate offers an idyllic countryside escape for an unforgettable summer in Sussex. With 11,000 acres of rolling hills and woodlands and the welcoming comfort of The Goodwood Hotel and beautifully designed self-catered cottages, the Estate provides the ultimate countryside retreat, combined with the adrenaline-fuelled sporting passions that Goodwood is famed for.
Here, you can play a round of golf on championship courses, cycle through peaceful
woodlands, or indulge in a treatment at the spa, all before sitting down to a farm-to-fork meal at Farmer, Butcher, Chef, where the ingredients are reared and grown just a stone’s throw away.
Step into the iconic world of Goodwood’s headline events, from the adrenaline of the Festival of Speed to the timeless glamour of Revival and summer racing at the Racecourse. Try flying in a vintage aircraft, take on the Motor Circuit yourself, or enjoy quieter moments walking the Estate’s peaceful trails. For a true taste of heritage, enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent State Apartments at Goodwood House, which provides a dramatic setting for one of the most significant private art collections in the country. Afterwards, indulge in a traditional afternoon tea in the beautiful ballroom surrounded by incredible works of art.
With everything in one extraordinary place – and the South Downs and Sussex coast just minutes away – The Goodwood Hotel is your ideal jumping off point for an authentic, unforgettable summer. Find out more at: www.goodwood.com
Clayful Hands is where creativity meets calm. In a beautiful, beamed barn studio on a Lewes farm. From wheel throwing and kids' classes to pottery painting and private parties, there’s something for everyone. With a café, parking, and a peaceful space, it’s the perfect place to get messy, unwind, and make something special. www.clayfulhands.uk | @clayfulhands | clayfulhandsuk@gmail.com
South Downs National Park
With over 3,600km of pathways and bridleways, the South Downs National Park offers a walk for everyone in this breathtaking landscape of green hills, forests, wildflower meadows and rivers. You can enjoy a stroll and a picnic, or a work-upa-sweat ramble or run. There are also six 'Miles Without Stiles' routes that are very accessible. More details at: www.southdowns.gov.uk/ get-active/south-downs-walks
A fantastic day out for the family and the fun goes on and on, whatever the weather. Knockhatch Adventure Park offers loads of exciting activities for visitors of all ages. Adventure seekers can delve into exhilarating experiences such as Sherlock Holmes, the Wave Runner and the huge Lost World Playbarn slides. The Jungle Splash is a huge wet play area
with water arches, gushers, fountains and a massive waterfall. Animal enthusiasts can enjoy petting and feeding a wide range of friendly farm animals including llamas, emus and goats. The daily Owl Displays will enthral your family as they swoop over your heads and land on their keeper’s gloves. www.knockhatch.com
Knockhatch Adventure Park
Hands
Index
Castles, Historic Places & Gardens
1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey & Battlefield 13
Bateman's 17
Bodiam Castle 12
Charleston 6
Hammerwood Park 16
High Beeches Woodlands & Water Garden 16
Horsham Museum 21
Lancing College Chapel 15
Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens 4
Parham House & Gardens 20
Petworth House & Park 5
Pevensey Castle 17
Sheffield Park & Garden 12
St Mary’s House & Gardens 6
Eat & Drink
Heathfield Farmers Market 32
Henners Vineyard 15
Leonardslee Wine Estate 4
Swains Farm Shop 14
The Royal Oak & Castle 17
The Seasons Kitchen 16
Events
iacf Ardingly International Antiques Fayre 8
Good Vibrations Society 32
Goodwood 33
All England Jumping Centre at Hickstead 14
Lewes Bonfire Night 14
More Radio Live 28
Sussex Living Garden Party 25
The Sussex Business Conference & Awards 24
Family Days Out
Bluebell Railway 23
Branching Out Adventures 22
Brighton & Hove Albion FC 28
Brighton & Hove Greyhound Racing 24
Brighton Lure Boats 22
Butterfly Gardens 30
Clayful Hands 34
Cuckmere Community Buses 32
Knockhatch Adventure Park 34
Paradise Park & Gardens 9
Poynings Pumpkin Patch 22
Rampion Visitor Centre 24
Rare Breeds Centre 25
South Downs National Park 34
The Triangle Leisure Centre 30
The Waterfront in Sovereign Harbour 31
Tilgate Park 7
Visit Eastbourne 29
Wilderness Wood 23
WWT Arundel Wetland Centre 23
Theatre & Arts
Brighton Open Air Theatre 20
Chichester Festival Theatre 21
Pallant House Gallery 21
Rye Arts Festival 12
Shoreham Art Gallery 20
The Petworth Festival 8