Christmas in Sussex is as varied as the great County itself. Filled with quaint seaside and countryside towns, alongside the vibrant Brighton and majestic Chichester, Christmas in Sussex has so much to offer.
Whether you are seeking a traditional Christmas dinner, an enchanting wander through stunning, festive light displays or a family day out with the kids, there is so much to choose from.
Christmas in Sussex is packed with magical and memorable experiences, with many attractions intertwined with historic landmarks and nature.
Please note this article is currently being updated for Christmas 2025 – with some dates not yet confirmed. Always check the official pages for updates.
Christmas in Sussex
Ice Skating
Ice skating is such a fun, seasonal activity to do in Winter. Also included in this section are details on ice skating at Guilford Spectrum. Guildford is a much bigger ice rink that my 8-year-old prefers to the more seasonal, smaller rinks, as he can go much faster here with a lot more space!
Royal Pavilion Ice Rink
The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is an iconic place to glide across the ice. Set with the backdrop of the stunning Royal Pavillion Palace, this is all you need to get in the festive mood. This may be the final year of ice skating for some time as the Royal Pavillion Gardens are undergoing renovations after this season.
When: 25th of October 2025 – 4th January 2026
Where: Royal Pavilion, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1FN
Worthing Ice Rink
Worthing Ice Rink returns annually to the heart of the town centre. With easy parking around Steyne Gardens, this is a popular festive activity amongst families and friends.
Why not take a potter through Worthing Town Centre, we love having lunch in one of the many cafes on Warwick Street.
When: 8th November 2025 – 22nd February 2026
Where: Steyne Gardens, Worthing BN11 3EA
Eastbourne Lightning Fibre Ice Rink
Eastbourne’s Lightning Fibre Ice Rink is always great fun. Last year, there was Bavarian Street Food, an Apres Ski bar, a fun fair and much more. Booking is advised for ice skating.
When: dates TBC
Where: Station Parade, Eastbourne BN21 1BD
Ardingly Showground
Ardingly Showground have confirmed dates for 2025 ice skating. Donned with festive lights, with ample parking on site, they offer a safe, family-friendly environment with skate aids for beginners and little ones.
When: 22nd November – 23rd December 2025
Where: Selsfield Rd, Haywards Heath RH17 6TL
Guilford Spectrum
Guildford Spectrum is open all year round and is a fairy straight-forward drive from the likes of Worthing, Horsham and Crawley, taking between 45-60 minutes on the weekend.
When: year-round
Where: Parkway, Guildford GU1 1UP
Christmas Lights in Sussex
Leonardslee Lights
Leonardslee Lights are some of the most popular Christmas lights in Sussex. The beautiful woodland gardens are illuminated in dazzling displays. The installations this year are absolutely breathtaking and a real labour of love.
There is a new route this year with impressive, winter-themed installations. The trail takes between 60-90 minutes. There will be festive food and hot drinks to get you in the spirit along the way, so you can sip on a mulled wine or hot chocolate and toast marshmallows along the trail.
Just to top it all off, there will be a funfair and a Christmas market to browse. Christmas in Sussex is that bit more spectacular with this amazing light show and we are very much looking forward to this year’s display!
Tickets are now available to book. There is also now an option to book a quieter session, appreciating the needs of others, on the 11th of December only.
When: 28th November – 30th December 2025
Where: Brighton Road, Lower Beeding, Horsham, RH13 6PP
Glow Wild at Wakehurst
Glow Wild at Wakehurst is set to be another season of magic and enchantment. Explore Wakehurst’s Woodland Trail – dotted with stunning lit-up lanterns and displays.
Last year, there was over a mile of specially curated installations, featuring the iconic lit-up Christmas tree, a giant flying owl, and a fiery dragon.
There will be delicious festive street food, a fire pit for toasting the obligatory marshmallow and an opportunity for a spot of gift shopping at the plant and gift shop onsite.
Booking Glow Wild is essential, so don’t miss out!
When: Selected dates between 27th November 2025 to 3th January 2026
Where: Selsfield Rd, Haywards Heath RH17 6TN
Let It Glow: Chichester’s Magical Winter Illumination
This free immersive light and sound experience created by MakeAmplify, an award-winning collective of artists and technologists renowned for reimagining public spaces, will see Chichester Cathedral’s historic Bell Tower transformed with light, colour and music.
The magical experience includes interactive sessions where visitors can use iPads to ‘paint with light’ and see their designs projected onto the walls of the Bell Tower. Participants can then explore glowing installations across the Green in a festive atmosphere that captures the wonder of Christmas.
When: 8th – 21st December 2025
Where: Chichester PO19 1PX
Steamlights
Visit Steamlights at the Bluebell Railway, offering an enchanting winter train journey through the Sussex countryside.
There will be thousands of dazzling and vibrant lights synchronized with festive music, with the magic of mythical creatures and the enchanting Ice Queen.
Guests can enjoy a switch-on performance at Sheffield Park Station and experience a multi-sensory light show. Along the way, marvel at dazzling illuminated lineside displays and see how many mythical creatures you can spot as the story unfolds – beautifully narrated by the Ice Queen herself.
When: 22nd November – 28th December 2025
Where: Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL
WILD: The Drone Light Show
WILD: The Drone Light Show will display a captivating performance, with hundreds of drones bringing the animal kingdom to life in breathtaking detail.
Journey through four stunning worlds, from sun-baked deserts to icy oceans, lush jungles to soaring mountains, all set to a powerful cinematic soundtrack. The whole show will last around 40 minutes.
There will be a wonderful festive atmosphere, and food village within this world-class stadium.
When: 13th December 2025, 17:00 and 20:15
Where: The 1st Central County Ground, Brighton & Hove, BN3 3AN
Tulleys Christmas Lights Festival
Tulleys Christmas Lights Festival brings a whole magical world of festive fun and enchantment. Whether you are planning a family day out, date night or a work Christmas party, this will be a memorable night out under the festive lights.
Wander through the immersive and enchanting light shows and magical trails, enjoy live music in the Ski Lodge Bar, and warm up with mulled wine from one of our three festive bars.
There is an opportunity to explore the handcrafted Christmas market, with roaming festive characters and the will be seasonal street food on-site. There will be a 33-metre observation wheel to enjoy the lights from above.
There will be plenty of Instagrammable opportunities to capture the night’s festive fun. Tulleys Christmas Lights Festival is a must see this Christmas in Sussex!
When: 28th November 2025 – 3rd January 2026
Where: Tulleys Christmas Nights Festival, Turners Hill Road, Turners Hill, Crawley, West Sussex, (closest postcode for Sat Nav RH10 4PD)
Brilliant Brighton
Enjoy a festive afternoon hosted by Brilliant Brighton, when on-street performances and the launch of the best-dressed window competition will take place throughout the City. Shops will be handing out goodie bags, and the town’s Christmas lights will be dazzling.
When: 6th December 2025
Where: Brighton City Centre
Hannington’s Lane
Join the wonderful independent retailers on Hannington’s Lane (Brighton’s very own Harrods!) for this festive Christmas light switch-on. Expect quaint shop windows, live music and a wonderful, warm atmosphere.
Why not stop off at one of the most fabulous independent retailers to browse for gifts? & Halt is known as Brighton’s very own “Liberty”, showcasing a stunning collection of ceramics and glassware. Fair showcases a beautiful range of ethical clothing, with some beautiful cosy knitwear to choose from.
When: 28th November 2025
Where: Hanningtons Lane, Brighton, BN1 1GS
Light Up Chichester
The countdown to Christmas is on in Chichester! Spend the day soaking up festive cheer with live entertainment, seasonal treats, and plenty of sparkle in the air.
Outside the Assembly Rooms on North Street, enjoy a full line-up of choirs, carol singers, dance performances, and even a steel pan band, all set against a flurry of festive snow effects.
The magic builds to the grand moment at 5pm, when a local hero, joined by elves from Chichester Festival Theatre’s grotto, switches on the city’s Christmas lights.
When: Saturday 22 November 2025 | 10am – 6pm
Where: Assembly Rooms, Chichester, West Sussex PO19 1LQ
Littlehampton’s Christmas Lights Switch-On
Littlehampton’s Christmas Lights Switch-On and late night shopping will help the town sparkle with festive lights, live entertainment and holiday cheer. This is a wonderful community event with lots of festive fun.
When: Saturday 22 November 2025, from 15:00
Where: Littlehampton Town Centre
Eastbourne Light Switch On
See Eastbourne’s Christmas lights switch on with live music and entertainment, children’s rides, street food and a Christmas market.
An afternoon of live music, street entertainment and festive stalls, all leading up to the big switch-on of the town’s Christmas lights at 6.30 pm.
When: Saturday 22 November 2025, from 15:00
Where: Littlehampton Town Centre
Festive National Trust Days Out
Christmas at Nymans: A Fairytale Christmas
A Fairytale Christmas Adventure is coming to Nymans, with this magical, festive, family-friendly adventure trail awaits, leading you through classic fairytales, from Aladdin’s Cave to Red Riding Hood’s basket of treats and take a seat in Cinderella’s carriage.
Nymans is a beautiful day out with the backdrop of gorgeous gardens, famous ruins and a romantic house. Last year they had a fabulous Christmas trail inspired by Narnia.
Where: Nymans, Handcross, near Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH17 6EB
When: Various dates between 22nd November 2025 – 4th January 2026
Brambly Hedge at Petworth
Enjoy this festive, cosy and nostalgic experience brought to Petworth House the Winter Story and The Secret Staircase.
Families can also enjoy a welcoming reading nook, cosy festive scenes and discover a beautifully imagined Oak Tree home, with seasonal touches that capture the spirit of Brambly Hedge and the magic of a woodland Christmas.
Check out the range of festive activities at Petworth House this Christmas.
Where: Petworth, GU28 9LR
When: 29th November 2025 – 4th January 2026
The Jungle Book Christmas at Bateman’s
Enter the jungle and a world of warmth and colour, tradition, and creativity as you experience ‘The Jungle Book Christmas’ at Bateman’s this year.
The world-renowned author of The Jungle Book, Rudyard Kipling, lived at Bateman’s for over 30 years, and the house remains to this day a warm and welcoming family home.
The Oast House shop will be filled with a wide array of Christmas decorations, cards, gifts, books, and stocking fillers, while the Mulberry Tea-room will be serving up warming festive treats.
Where: Bateman’s Ln, Burwash, Etchingham TN19 7DS
When: from 15th November 2025 – 4th January 2026
The Jolly Holly Christmas Family Trail at Standen House
Standen House and Gardens invites you to step into a world of seasonal sparkle with our enchanting gift-themed trail, inspired by the Beale family and their Christmas wishes. As you journey through the trail, enjoy games, joyful surprises and moments of festive fun for the whole family.
Christmas trees and decorations fill the house and ‘The Jolly Holly Christmas Trail’, a trail for families, can be enjoyed by all.
Where: West Hoathly Rd, East Grinstead RH19 4NE
When: from 22nd November 2025
The Elf on the Shelf® at Sheffield Park
Visit Sheffield Park and Garden this Christmas for The Elf on the Shelf® Christmas trail! There are twelve hand-painted sculptures to discover around the garden as you take in the glorious wintry scenes and delight in festive games and activities for all the family.
Warm up with a hot chocolate and mince pie at our festive food stalls and make magical Christmas memories.
Where: Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QX
When: 29th November 2025 – 11th January 2026
Christmas Shop Windows
Christmas in Sussex means certain towns and cities across the county will have shops that make an exceptional effort to dress their window for Christmas.
You can’t beat wandering down the Laines in Brighton and marvelling at all the colourful and dazzling displays.
Brighton, Chichester and Horsham also host an annual competition for the best-dressed window, so why not do some window shopping or support some local businesses whilst out?
Pantomimes & Shows
Christmas in Sussex would not be the same without seeing a beloved Pantomime, especially if you have kids! It is a tradition of many families to make a day of seeing a pantomime each year at Christmas time.
There are plenty of pantomimes and shows this Christmas in Sussex this year. Here are some of our best picks, whether you are planning a unique Christmas party or a festive day out.
The Gift, Brighton
The Old Market in Brighton & Hove is unveiling The Gift, a brand-new, immersive festive experience. Co-produced and hosted by award-winning director Mella Faye, this vibrant mix of gig, theatre, and dining celebrates the joy and absurdity of life with live music, cabaret, clowning, and interactive performances.
Each night promises something unique as audiences are invited to join in the playful mayhem and creative energy. Tickets include a winter feast of local sharing platters, making it the perfect alternative to a traditional Christmas celebration with friends, family, or colleagues.
When: 3rd – 21st December 2025
Where: The Old Market, 11a Upper Market Street, Hove, BN3 1AS
Jack & The Beanstalk, Brighton
Plan a wonderful family day out at the Jack & The Beanstalk Pantomime. Witness this timeless classic fairytale unravel on stage with a health dash of “Fee, Fi, Fo Fum!”.
All will leave with a huge smile, as there will be lots of cheery moments and a perfect performance with great singing.
When: 23rd – 30th December 2025
Where: Doubletree By Hilton Brighton Metropole, Kings Rd, Brighton BN1 2FU
Once Upon A Whispering Wood, Brighton
Once Upon A Whispering Wood is a beautiful and heartwarming festive tale reimagined for audiences this Christmas.
Puppetry and music create a storytelling adventure filled with joy amidst the rustle and chatter of the leaves and branches in this very special wood, a place where secrets are discovered and hopes are shared.
When: 17th December 2025 – 3rd January 2026
Where: Theatre Royal, New Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1SD
Cinderella The Pantomime, Worthing
Check out the magical Christmas adventure of Cinderella the Pantomime at Worthing’s Pavilion Theatre. It is set to be mayhem and fabulous fun! This will be a spectacular, epic adventure, filled with belly laughs, thrills, captivating songs and the timeless magic of a panto.
When: 4th December 2025 – 4th January 2026
Where: Pavillion Theatre, Marine Parade, Worthing BN11 3PX
Robin Hood, Horsham
Get ready for a festive adventure as Robin Hood comes to Horsham! Join the dashing outlaw, brave Maid Marian and their merry band as they outwit the wicked Sheriff in this action-packed pantomime.
Expect dazzling costumes, spectacular sets, catchy songs and plenty of laughs, a magical treat for the whole family.
When: 22nd November 2025 – 4th January 2026
Where: The Capitol, North Street, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1RG
A Boy Called Christmas, Chichester
A Boy Called Christmas at Chichester Theatre is set to be an enthralling, charming and magical tale that tells the true story of Father Christmas.
Join Nikolas on this life-changing adventure, full of fantastic characters and beautiful moments, and watch how one little boy comes to be the very symbol of Christmas itself.
When: 15th – 31st December 2025
Where: Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, Chichester, PO19 6AP
Jack & The Beanstalk, Hastings
Jack & The Beanstalk Pantomime at the White Rock is always the highlight of the festive calendar in Hastings, and this year’s show promises to be bigger and better than ever.
Get ready to roar with laughter and cheer our hero Jack on his magical journey to Cloudland as he battles to save his best friend Daisy the Cow.
As always, there’ll be spectacular scenery, dazzling costumes, amazing special effects and lots of audience participation. It is a great family day out for all!
When: 10th December 2025 – 4th January 2026
Where: White Rock Theatre, White Rock, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 1JX
Christmas Concert
Chichester Theatre’s Christmas Concerts
Brimming with yuletide cheer, Chichester Theatre’s Christmas Concerts promise an evening of cherished carols and classic Christmas melodies, alongside some enchanting new arrangements. There will be an opportunity for a gloriously uplifting sing-along with a medley of seasonal favourites.
This festive celebration promises to wrap you in the warm glow of the holiday spirit.
When: 2nd – 6th December 2025
Where: Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, Chichester, PO19 6AP
Medieval Baebes
Medieval Baebes are recognised as one of Europe’s leading female-driven early music and folk ensembles, their rich, otherworldly harmonies transport listeners across a tapestry of ancient and forgotten languages.
When: 12th December 2025
Where: St Mary’s Church, Causeway, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 IHE
Carols by Candlelight
Experience the magic of Christmas in a quaint 13th-century chapel. Christmas by Candlight offers a festive experience in a 13th-century chapel, featuring performances by The Agnes Collective.
Attendees can choose from lunch, afternoon tea, or evening options paired with a carol concert.
When: 14th-16th December 2025
Where: Bailifscourt, Climping, West Sussex, BN17 5RW
Elf The Musical UK
Elf The Musical UK is coming to Eastbourne this Christmas in Sussex for only four dates this year. The hit show is a heartwarming adaptation of the much-loved Christmas classic movie.
With plenty of festive cheer, follow Buddy the Elf on his journey of discovery, with underlying themes of love and friendship. Expect catchy songs, lively dancing and memorable characters.
When: 27th-30th of November 2025
Where: Congress Theatre, Carlisle Rd, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP
Step Into Christmas
Step Into Christmas is a feel-good Christmas concert. All your Christmas classic favourite songs will be performed, from All I Want for Christmas, Last Christmas, Jingle Bell Rock, Stay Another Day and many more!
When: 21st December 2025
Where: Brighton Centre, Kings Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 2GR
Christmas Events Sussex
The Christmas Sing-Along, Bognor Regis
Celebrate Christmas in Sussex with this joyful Christmas sing-along, lively DJ sets, and plenty of seasonal cheer! Enjoy mulled wine, fun props, and a merry crowd as you dance, mingle, and soak up the magic of the holidays in a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere.
When: Sat 13th Dec at 3:00pm- 8:00pm
Where: Venue 24, Bognor Regis
Festive Family Day in Chicester
The highly anticipated Festive Family Day will return with an exciting festive adventure across the city, including seasonal spectacles, Christmas crafting and storytelling for the whole family. V2 Radio will also be on hand to lift spirits throughout the day, playing favourite festive tunes and broadcasting live.
Where: Chichester City Centre
When: 13th December 2025 | 11:00-17:00
Arundel at Christmas
Arundel is renowned in Sussex for bringing magic and cheer. The town is dotted with beautiful, uniform mini trees along the shop and house fronts.
There is a schedule of Christmas activities in Arundel. However, the “opening ceremony” is set to be a great day. There will be the Christmas tree lighting, procession, carolling and festive entertainment.
Father Christmas will be making an attendance also. Check out this full guide on Arundel at Christmas.
Where: TBC
When: Town Square, Arundel, BN18 9AP
Check out our 21 Great Things To Do in Arundel
Christmas Trail
The Christmas Trail at Manor Barn offers some festive fun, where children can run around finding the clues in the grounds.
Once all the clues have been found, receive a fabulous festive sweet treat. VIP ticket holders can also join in with some arts and crafts and have a glitter tattoo.
There will be several stalls selling seasonal and festive items for those last-minute gifts. Come and make some eco-friendly reindeer food during the event for a small charge.
Where: Manor Barn, Manor Gardens, Bexhill, TN40 2JA
When: 21st December 2025
Christmas in Little Chelsea
Christmas in Little Chelsea returns with late-night shopping, a Christmas market on Grove Road and South Street, children’s rides, festive food and live entertainment.
Where: Little Chelsea, Grove Road & South Street, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 4QA
When: 5th December 2025
Winter Wonderland, Hayling Island
Although just outside of Sussex, Hayling Wonderland at Funland Hayling Island, offers a magical Christmas experience, featuring visits to the Gingerbread Factory, a train ride through Elf Village, and a meeting with Father Christmas in his cosy room.
The event includes unlimited fun fair rides and access to the indoor Kidz Kingdom play area.
Where: Funland, Hayling Island
When: Various dates between 29th November – 24th December 2025
Visit Father Christmas in Sussex
One of the most anticipated times of year for little ones, visiting Father Christmas is a must-do activity. There are plenty of options to see Santa this Christmas in Sussex, often booking ahead is best.
Santa in the Sky, Brighton i360
Santa in the Sky at Brighton i360 provides a festive experience with a 25-minute pod journey, where families can meet Santa and his elves, take photos, and enjoy scenic views. Each child receives a gift, making this a memorable Christmas adventure.
Where: Brighton i360, Lower Kings Road, Brighton, BN1 2LN
When: Various dates in December 2025
Old Barn Garden Centre, Dial Post
Santa’s Enchanted Forest at Old Barn Garden Centre offers a magical experience featuring a Christmas-themed forest, elves, storytelling, and a waterfall, culminating in a visit with Santa. Proceeds support The Budding Foundation Charity.
Where: Old Barn Garden Centre, Dial Post, West Sussex
When: 22nd November – 19th December 2025 (some dates already sold out)
Sail to Santa WWT Arundel
Sail to Santa at WWT Arundel Wetland Centre offers a festive boat trip through scenic reed beds to visit Santa in his frosty grotto, with opportunities for children to post a letter and receive a special gift.
Enjoy a full day out, including visits to wildlife exhibits and seasonal refreshments at the Water’s Edge Café. The Wetlands in Arundel is a great day out as it is, made even more magical by this festive addition.
Where: WWT Arundel, Mill Road, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9PB
When: dates yet TBC
Sussex Forest Activities, Angmering
We have previously done the Sussex Forest Activities Christmas celebration. In the backdrop of the beautiful Angmering woodlands, families can participate in an eco-friendly festive craft and activity.
Father Christmas will be on hand to read a story and children can choose to sit on his lap if they like for a photo opportunity. This event is supported by East Preston Scouts, with all profits going to the Scout Group.
Where: Furzefield Scout Campsite, Dapper’s Lane, Angmering, Littlehampton, BN16
When: dates yet TBC
Tulleys Farm, Crawley
Tulleys Farm offers a unique and magical visit to Santa Claus this year. Known for its extravagant festive experiences, children can meet Father Christmas in the woodlands on-site at Tulleys Farm.
There are various activities to participate in, including sleigh rides, gingerbread decorating, reindeer food making, elves forest, circus and elf hunt, to name but a few!
Children are invited to build their own bear this year as part of their visit to Santa! There is plenty of parking available on-site.
Where: Tulleys Farm, Turners Hill Road, Turners Hill, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 4PD
When: Various dates 22nd November – 24th December 2025
Drusillas, Alfriston
Drusillas is well-known for its magical and enchanting Christmas celebration. There will be a giant, glittering Christmas tree, singing reindeer and delicious Christmas treats.
To visit the Christmas Village and see Santa Claus, you must pay entry to Drucillas first. Tickets to see Santa is an additional £18.50, with a one-to-one meeting with the big man and a special gift included.
There will be lots of festive treats on site from mulled wine, mince pies and fresh doughnuts.
Where: Drusillas Zoo Park Ltd, Alfriston, East Sussex, BN26 5QS, UK
When: Various dates 22nd November – 23rd December 2025
Santas Magic Elevator, Eastbourne
Santa’s Magic Elevator at the Beacon Shopping Centre, Eastbourne, is an easy, fuss-free visit to Santa. The magical flying elevator will blast off through the roof and send you soaring into the air, where you can take in the sights and sounds of Eastbourne, Space and the beautiful Snowy Landscapes.
You will feel like you’re flying alongside Santa’s reindeer. Each child will receive a special gift that is suitable for children of all ages. The whole experience lasts around 15 minutes.
Where: The Beacon Centre (opposite Clarks Shoes), Terminus Rd, Eastbourne BN21 3NW
When: Various dates 29th November – 24th December 2025
KiddiCity, Eastbourne
KiddiCity is super popular to visit Santa in his magical winter grotto. The ticket includes one adult, and one hour of playtime in the cafe. The ideal age for this activity is up to age 7, however older children are also welcome.
Children will have a ten-minute slot to meet Father Christmas, share their wishes with him, take photos and receive a special gift.
Your ticket also includes full access to our Play Village and Soft Play area, so little ones can enjoy even more festive fun before or after their Santa visit.
Upon arrival, you’ll be given your allocated time slot to meet Santa, making the experience smooth and stress-free. Don’t forget to bring your letter ready to post straight to the North Pole!
Where: KiddiCity, Lagney Shopping Centre (opposite Costa), 64 Kingfisher Drive, Eastbourne, BN23 7RT
When: Various dates 29th November – 24th December 2025
Santas Grotto, Paradise Park
Meet Santa at the much-loved Paradise Park. Santa’s magical grotto returns this year where children can meet him in person and receive a special gift.
Booking a ticket to Santa at Paradise Park also gives you access to the exciting rides available on-site, so you can expect a whole day of fun and excitement, and a great family day out.
Where: Paradise Park, Avis Road, Newhaven, East Sussex, BN9 0DH.
When: selected dates from 22nd November – 23rd December 2025
Visit Santa at Keydell Nurseries
Visit Santa at Keydell Nurseries for a magical journey through the Woodland Walk, adorned with festive displays and twinkling lights, leading to Santa’s grotto where children receive a special gift.
Pre-booking is essential, with different ticket options, including special dates for Christmas Eve.
Where: Keydell Nurseries, Horndean, Hampshire
When: Various dates in November and December 2025
Santas Grotto, Worthing
Marine Gardens in Worthing is hosting a magical Santa’s Grotto. It’s designed to provide a magical Christmas experience for kids and families to enjoy together. Upgrade the festive experience with the pancake breakfast during Santa’s visit.
Where: Marine Gardens Restaurant, Worthing, UK
When: various dates in December 2025
Fishers Farm Sussex
Fishers Farm’s Festive Christmas offers a magical experience for families and little ones. Enjoy a day of interactive activities, such as the pantomime, toboggan runs, tractor rides, nativity with real animals, gingerbread decorating and a visit to Santa’s Grotto.
Christmas in West Sussex is made that bit more enjoyable with “Festive Fishers”.
Where: Fishers Farm Park, Newpound Lane, Wisborough Green, West Sussex, RH14 0EG
When: various dates in December 2025
Christmas at Bewl Water
Nestled on the Sussex and Kent border, Kent’s most immersive festive family adventure at Bewl Water, offers over three hours of interactive and theatrical magic.
Wander through our enchanted woodland and join Santa’s Quest to restore the Cheer‑o-Meter and reignite the spirit of Christmas. The fun is endless here! Make the reindeer some food, bake cookies with Mrs Claus, send your Christmas letter via the post office, and much more!
Where: Bewl Water, Bewlbridge Lane, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 8JH
When: selected dates (mostly weekends) from 15th November – 24th December 2025
Festive Afternoon Tea
Why not indulge in a delicious festive afternoon tea, this Christmas in Sussex?
Ashdown Park Hotel
Enjoy a festive twist on the traditional afternoon tea at this elegant 19th-century mansion. It includes seasonal sweet treats, sandwiches, and freshly baked scones, all set in the heart of Ashdown Forest.
Upgrade to the champagne afternoon tea if you are feeling fancy.
Where: 1st – 23rd December 2025
When: Wych Cross, Forest Row, East Sussex, RH18 5JR
Avisford Park Hotel
This festive afternoon tea offers savoury bites like pigs in blankets and a variety of sweet treats, served in a cosy, Christmassy atmosphere at Avisford Park Hotel.
Where: Available daily between 29th November and 22nd December
When: Yapton Lane, Walberton, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 0LS
South Lodge Hotel
South Lodge offers a festive afternoon tea throughout December, with traditional holiday flavours. You can also add a glass of fizz to complete the celebration.
Where: December 2025
When: Brighton Road, Lower Beeding, Horsham, West Sussex, RH13 6PS
Christmas Breaks in Sussex
Amberley Castle
Unwind in the historic and ambient Amberley Castle for a memorable Christmas break in Sussex this year. Amberley Castle is steeped in over 900 years of history.
The picturesque, medieval retreat offers luxurious Christmas stays from the 24th to the 27th of December 2025.
Guests are welcomed on Christmas Eve with a festive, cream tea in the Lounge. Indulge in an exquisite a la carte dinner whilst soaking in the sounds of a string duo. Enjoy a nightcap of mulled wine before retreating to bed.
On Christmas Day guests wake up to a luxurious, festive atmosphere and are greeted with a gift and glass of Champagne. Enjoy a full English or continental breakfast.
For lunchtime, savour the delicious 5-course festive lunch with a matching wine flight, coffee & petits fours and live harpist. Enjoy a walk in the grounds on the crisp Christmas day before unwinding before the log fire.
Blow off the cobwebs on Boxing Day by strolling through the twelve acres of frost-tipped gardens in the heart of the West Sussex countryside.
Your magical Christmas retreat concludes with an exceptional three-course dinner before retiring to your luxurious guest room. Christmas in West Sussex will be just magical with this experience!
Where: 24th – 27th of December 2025
When: Amberley Castle, Nr Arundel West Sussex, BN18 9LT
The festive things to do this Christmas in Sussex are certainly not lacking. I hope this has helped you plan a wonderful time of year.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, from Secret Sussex.
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