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 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.
Christmas in Sussex
Ice Skating
Royal Pavillion Ice Rink
Royal Pavillion 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.
When: October 26th 2024 – 5th January 2025
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: From 23rd of November 2024 – 5th January 2025
Where: Steyne Gardens, Worthing BN11 3EA
Eastbourne Lightning Fibre Ice Rink
Eastbournes Lightning Fibre Ice Rink is always great fun. This year there will be Bavarian Street Food, an Apres Ski bar, a fun fair and much more. Booking is advised for ice skating.
When: 29th of November – 31st December 2024
Where: Station Parade, Eastbourne BN21 1BD
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 5th of December only.
When: 22nd of November – 30th December 2024
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.
There is over a mile of specially curated installations, from the iconic lit-up Christmas tree, giant flying owl and 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 28 November 2024 to 1 January 2025
Where: Selsfield Rd, Haywards Heath RH17 6TN
Illuminated Battle Abbey
Witness the stunning Battle Abbey be illuminated in a dazzling display. There will be illuminations of characters in a breathtaking light show, throughout the grounds.
Taking place in the heart of 1066 County, these light displays and sounds will take you back to Winter then.
Picture by Jim Holden
English Heritage
When: Tue 3rd – Sun 8th Dec 2024 ( 5pm, 5:30pm, 6pm, 6:30pm, 7pm, 7:30pm)
Where: Battle Abbey, Butter Cross, High St, Battle TN33 0AE
Santa’s Steamlights
Visit Santa’s Steamlights at the Bluebell Railway offers an enchanting winter train journey through the Sussex countryside.
There will be thousands of dazzling and vibrant lights synchronized with festive music.
Guests can enjoy a switch-on performance at Sheffield Park Station, witness Santa’s arrival, and experience a multi-sensory light show.
The event includes a 30-minute stop at Horsted Keynes Station for photos, with the whole experience lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes overall.
When: 15th November – 31st December 2024
Where: Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QL
The Brighton Lights
The Brighton Lights is back for the second year running. Immerse yourself in this magical light display, with a brand new route and more installations than before.
Embrace the festive atmosphere as you wander the beautiful One Garden. There will be live performances on stage, festive food and opportunities to grab a hot, festive drink.
This is the perfect festive experience for families with both younger and older children. There is a real emphasis on the comfort of families and accessibility needs for all.
When: 7th December & Sunday 8th December, 11th December – 23rd December 2024. Quieter sessions are available 12th and 17th of December.
Where: One Garden Brighton, Stanmer Park, Lewes Road, Brighton, BN1 9SE
A Christmas Carol Drone Light Show
A Christmas Carol Light Drone will display a captivating performance of the timeless Charles Dickins “A Christmas Carol”.
Marvel at the characters such as Ebenezer Scrooge come to life in the sky and witness his journey to Christmas joy, all dazzling through the skyline.
There will be a wonderful festive atmosphere, and food village within this world-class stadium.
When: 14th of December 2024
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 for sure.
With 10 immersive light installations, dazzling illuminated shows, Ski Lodge Bar with live music, roaming festive characters, a huge observation wheel and more.
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 of November – 23rd December 2024
Where: Tulleys Christmas Nights Festival Turners Hill Road, Turners Hill, Crawley, West Sussex, (closest postcode for Sat Nav RH10 4PD)
Christmas Markets in Sussex
Sussex Christmas Markets have a tonne of variety to offer. Offering delicious, festive food and drinks and a variety of crafts and artisan goods.
Christmas markets in Sussex have to be some of the best in the UK, so why not plan an enjoyable day out to get you in the festive spirit?
Christmas Markets East Sussex
Rye Creative Christmas Market
Rye Creative Centre Christmas Market is a free event, offering an array of arts and crafts, baked goods and hot drinks.
Set in the picturesque and historic town, the Christmas market is set to be a winter wonderland of delight!
Admission is free, as is parking making it accessible and a great family day out. It is also just a short walk from Rye town centre.
When: 23rd and 24th of November 2024
Where: Rye Creative Centre, New Road, Rye, East Sussex, TN31 7LS
Bexhill Christmas Market
Bexhill Christmas Market and Fair is a fabulously festive 2-day event at the Manor Barn. There will be over 50 stalls spanning inside and out.
There will be an array of gifts, decorations, sweet treats, jewellery and much more. Do wrap up warm in case it is cold! Enjoy a hot drink as you browse the selection of goods and feel the Christmas cheer.
When: 9th and 10th November 2024
Where: The Manor Barn, Manor Gardens, Bexhill-on-Sea TN40 2JA
Bluebell Coppice Christmas Market
Bluebell Coppice Christmas Market is in its first year running, so head along and show your support. There will be over 25 stalls to peruse, selling Christmas goods, treats, decorations, cards, handmade gifts and much more.
Warming food and drink will be available to purchase throughout the day to keep you warm while shopping.
Free entry and car parking facilities. Do wrap-up warm as the market sprawls both inside and out.
When: 24th November 11:00-15:00
Where: Bluebell Coppice, Forewood Lane, Crowhurst, East Sussex, TN33 9AB
Brighton Open Market Christmas Events
Brighton Open Market will be displaying a range of markets this Christmas, with a selection of local food makers, crafters and artists.
When: Various Dates
Where: Brighton Open Market, Marshalls Row, Brighton and Hove, BN1 4JU
Eastbourne Christmas Markets
Eastbourne Christmas Market is popular each year. There will be live music and entertainment, carol singers, children’s rides, mulled wine and cider, and a Christmas parade.
The Christmas market offers a host of hot food, gifts and crafts.
When: 7th – 10th December 2024
Where: Mead Street, Eastbourne, BR20 7RG
Sussex Christmas Markets
The Sussex Christmas Markets supports local and independent businesses, whilst offering an array of unique goods for the public to peruse for Christmas shopping.
When: 7th and 8th of December 2024 11am-4pm
Where: Brighton Racecourse, Freshfield Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 9XZ
Christmas Markets West Sussex
Worthing Wonderland Christmas Market
The Wonderland Christmas Market offers over 100 varied stalls, selling local and handmade crafts. There will be a variety of homemade food on offer, face painting, Christmas crafts and balloon modelling.
Last but not least on this festive day is a Santa’s Grotto for children to meet the big man and receive a personalised gift to take home, in addition to a personalised bauble.
This day is in support of St. Barnabas House Hospice who will be hosting a tombola this year.
When: 17th November 2024
Where: Worthing Assembly Hall, Stoke Abbot Road, Worthing BN11 1HQ
Shoreham Christmas Makers Market
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit in this Shoreham’s unique Christmas Makers Market. Packed with over 50 talented local artists and makers, this makes the perfect opportunity to purchase a bespoke, special gift for someone.
There will be live music, freshly baked treats and a generally wonderful atmosphere to be expected.
When: 7th December 2024
Where: The Shoreham Centre, Pond Road, Shoreham-by-Sea, BN43 5WU
The Sussex Guild Contemporary Craft Show
The Sussex Guild Contemporary Craft Show offers a superb variety of beautifully handmade items. Come and peruse an array of unique ceramics, furniture, glass, jewellery, leatherwork, knitwear, prints, silversmith, woodwork, textile art and more.
There is a cafe on site for hot drinks and refreshments. Why not make a day of it and discover the beautiful town that is Midhurst?
When: 7th and 8th of December 2024
Where: Midhurst Rother College, Midhurst, West Sussex, GU29 9DT
Winter Market, Bognor Regis
This wonderful Winter Market is showcasing local artisans and crafters, with an opportunity to get your Christmas shopping done. There will be a visit from the big man himself, festive workshops and a guaranteed fun family day out.
Entry is free on the day.
When: 17th November 2024
Where: The Gordon Centre, Canada Grove, Bognor Regis
Chichester Christmas Markets
The Chichester Christmas Markets will have up to 100 independent businesses from Sussex, Hampshire and beyond will showcase their festive products at Westgate Leisure Centre in Chichester this Christmas!
Treat yourself or a loved one to an abundance of unique products at this not-to-be-missed event. This is one of our favourite Christmas markets in West Sussex.
When: Sunday 10th November 2024
Where: New Park Centre, Chichester, PO19 1RJ
Denmans Garden Christmas Market
Denmans Gardens Christmas Market and Midpines Cafe welcome in the festive season with this quaint showcase of local goods and crafts. The plant centre makes for a welcome stop off for all those green fingers.
When: 17th & 18th November 2024
Where: Denmans Garden, Denmans Lane, Fontwell, BN18 0SU
Petworth Christmas Makers Market
The Petworth Christmas Makers Market is a festive shopping event held in the stunning backdrop of Petworth House. Petworth House is decadently decorated each year.
The makers market is located within the Battery House and will showcase a range of jewellery, art and homewares. There will be an array of unique Christmas gifts to browse.
This event is perfect for those looking to combine a cultural visit to Petworth House with some holiday shopping. National Trust entry fees still apply.
When: 30th November – 1st December 2024 10:00-19:00
Where: Petworth House & Park, Petworth, West Sussex GU28 9LR
Christmas Fairs In Sussex
Brighton Winter Fayre
Christmas in Sussex would not be the same without a visit to Brighton’s Winter Fayre. Expect magic and merriment with the unique flair that is Brighton.
Built around local businesses, craftspeople and entertainers, there will be free on-street entertainment throughout December, plenty of delicious food and drinks, winter workshops and much more.
Where: St. Peters Square, York Place, Brighton, BN1 4GU
When: 5th-8th, 12th-15th, 19th-22nd December 2024
Find out more details on Brighton’s Winter Fair here.
Heene Christmas Fayre
Heene Christmas Fayre will host a range of entertainment and festive fun. There will be children’s activities, live entertainment, festive stalls, a Santa grotto, a tombolla and a raffle.
When: 7th December 2024 10am-3pm
Where: Heene Community Centre, 122 Heene Road, Worthing, BN11 4PL
Brighton Toy and Model Museum
Brighton Toy and Model Museum are hosting a festive event this year, with the Art and Craft Fair showcasing some excellent Christmas gifts and stocking fillers.
There will be Christmas-themed activities, music, storytelling, and a meet-and-greet with Father Christmas (suitable for ages 3+).
Admission to the museum is free, but there’s a fee for the Father Christmas experience, which includes a present for the kids. Tickets for the Santa visit are £10 for one child, £20 for two, and £30 for three, with no charge for accompanying adults.
When: 15th of December 2024
Where: Brighton Toy and Model Museum, 52-55 Trafalgar St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4EB
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?
Enjoy a festive afternoon on November 16th, when on-street performances and the launch of the best-dressed window competition will take place throughout Brighton. Shops will be handing out goodie bags and the town Christmas lights will be dazzling.
Pantomime
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.
Sleeping Beauty
Plan a wonderful family day out at the Sleeping Beauty Pantomime. Witness this timeless classic fairytale unravel on stage with plenty of “it’s behind you moments!”.
All will leave with a huge smile, as there will be lots of cheery moments and a perfect performance with great singing.
When: 19th – 30th December 2024
Where: Doubletree By Hilton Brighton Metropole, Kings Rd, Brighton BN1 2FU
Robin Hood
Check out the merry fun of Robin Hood the Pantomime, it is set to be mayhem and fabulous fun! This will be an epic adventure, filled with belly laughs, thrills, captivating songs and the timeless magic of a panto.
When: 5th December 2024 – 5th January 2025
Where: Pavillion Theatre, Marine Parade, Worthing BN11 3PX
Jack and the Beanstalk
An enchanting performance of Jack and the Beanstalk is coming to The Capital in Horsham. This was a huge hit last year and is set to be even better, with dazzling costumes and an engaging, theatrical performance expected.
When: 30th November 2024 – 5th January 2025
Where: The Capitol, North Street, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1RG
Cinderella
Cinderella at Chichester Theatre is set to be a spell-binding retelling of this classic, beloved folk tale. Thrilling theatrics and plenty of belly laughs will get you through a delightful show.
Cinderella follows a run of five-star rated shows, including Pinocchio, The Jungle Book and Sleeping Beauty.
When: 17th – 31st December 2024
Where: Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, Chichester, PO19 6AP
Christmas Concert
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: 14th December 2024
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: 15th – 17th December 2024
Where: Bailifscourt, Climping, West Sussex, BN17 5RW
Fairytale of New York
Returning after three sell-out tours, this is the ultimate night to get merry and into the Christmas spirit. This world-class concert will give you stellar renditions of the much-loved Irish classics such as “Galway Girl”, “The Irish Rover” and “Dirty Old Town”.
Find out more information and book tickets here.
When: 30th November 2024
Where: Theatre Royal Brighton, New Road, Brighton, BN1 1SD
Elf The Musical UK
Elf The Musical UK is coming to the Brighton Centre this Christmas in Sussex for only two 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: 17th and 18th of December 2024
Where: Brighton Centre, Kings Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 2GR
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!
Where: 20th December 2024
Where: Brighton Centre, Kings Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 2GR
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 November – December 2024
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: 23rd November – 24th December 2024
Sail to Santa WWT Arundel
Sail to Santa 2024 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: December 7, 8, 14, 15 (weekends only), from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm
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.
Find tickets via Event Brite., they cost £12.50 per child.
When: Saturday 30th November 2024, timings throughout the day
Where: Furzefield Scout Campsite, Dapper’s Lane, Angmering, Littlehampton, BN16
Christmas with the Clauses, Brighton Winter Fayre
The Christmas Grotto at Brighton Winter Fayre features a charming experience, with Mrs. Claus sharing festive stories and recipes before children decorate gingerbread cookies alongside Santa.
Families can enjoy personal photo opportunities by the fireplace, and each child receives a special gift.
Where: Brighton Winter Fayre, Brighton
When: December 5-15, 2024 (specific dates and time slots available)
More Info: Brighton Winter Fayre
Tulleys Farm, Crawley
Tulleys Farm offers a unique and magical visit to Santa Claus this year. Known for its extravagant festive experiences, children will 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!
Plenty of parking is available on-site.
When: Every weekend from the 23rd of November – 15th December, then 20th – 24th December
Where: Tulleys Farm, Turners Hill Rd, Turners Hill, West Sussex RH10 4PE
Drucillas, Alfriston
Drucillas 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.
When: 23rd of November – 23rd December 2024
Where: Drusillas Zoo Park Ltd, Alfriston, East Sussex, BN26 5QS, UK
Santas Grotto at The Beacon, Eastbourne
Santa’s Grotto at the Beacon Shopping Centre, Eastbourne, is an easy, fuss-free visit to Santa. Children will fill in their festive passports with their unique elf name.
Santas little helpers will be on hand to guide yo through to the big man. Photos are welcome at no extra cost.
When: 2nd -24th December 2024. Various time slots available from 10am-6pm
Where: The Beacon Centre (opposite Clarks Shoes), Terminus Rd, Eastbourne BN21 3NW
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.
When: 7th, 8th and selected dates until the 24th of December 2024
Where: KiddiCity, Lagney Shopping Centre (opposite Costa), 64 Kingfisher Drive, Eastbourne, BN23 7RT
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.
When: selected dates from the 23rd of November to the 23rd of December 2024
Where: Paradise Park, Avis Road, Newhaven, East Sussex, BN9 0DH.
Retro By Ronnie, Goring
Retro By Ronnie has an annual meet and greet with Santa in the unique retro toy shop. The whole family can get into the festive spirit, as Santa’s Grotto is decked out with twinkling lights, wonderful decorations and Christmas music.
When: Dates TBC
Where: Retro By Ronnie, 66 Goring Road, BN12 4AH
Check out the Best Things To Do in Goring-by-Sea
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 December; refer to Keydell Nurseries for full details and booking.
Childrens Christmas Party
The Children’s Christmas Party at Marine Gardens Restaurant offers festive fun with games, entertainment, and a special visit from Santa, including a gift for each child.
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.
When: 15th December 2024
Where: Marine Gardens Restaurant, Worthing, UK
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”.
When: 7th – 24th December 2024
Where: Fishers Farm Park, Newpound Lane, Wisborough Green, West Sussex, RH14 0EG
Christmas Events Sussex
Burning The Clocks, Brighton
Burning the Clocks Festival is a Winter Solstice celebration which happens in Brighton each year. Taking place on the shortest day of the year and in the depths of winter, it brings a wonderful sense of togetherness
It is a free community orientated event, where people can make their own lanterns from paper and willow.
The lanterns are then paraded through Brighton City, down to the seafront where it ends near the ZipWire. The lanterns are then burnt in a big bonfire on Kemptown Beach.
Burning the Clocks symbolises the end of one year and the beginning of another. Pick up your lantern kit from Jubilee Square.
This event is co-ordinated by Same Sky – the largest community arts Charity in South East England. They do important work with homeless youth, single fathers and carers.
When: 21st December 2024
Where: Brighton Town Centre, exact location TBC
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.
When: 1st December 2024
Where: Town Square, Arundel, BN18 9AP
Check out our 21 Great Things To Do in Arundel
Christmas Trail
The Christmas Trail offers two ticket options: a festive walk through the Elves and Candy Cane Trail with sweet treats (£4), or an enhanced experience with glitter tattoos and eco-friendly crafts (£8).
Attendees can also enjoy refreshments, market stalls, and Christmas-themed activities.
When: 22nd December 2024
Where: Manor Barn, Manor Gardens Bexhill TN40 2JA
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.
When: 6th December 2024
Where: Little Chelsea, Grove Road & South Street, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 4QA
Christmas at Nyamans: Narnia
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is coming to Nyamans with this magical, family-friendly trail. Step through the wardrobe at Narnia, marvel at the wonderfully decorated professor’s home and explore the witch’s castle.
Nyman’s is a beautiful day out with the backdrop of gorgeous gardens, famous ruins and romantic house.
When: 23rd November 2024 – 5th January 2025
Where: Nymans, Handcross, near Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH17 6EB
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 leading up to Christmas 2024; check Hayling Wonderland for full details.
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.
When: 4th – 23rd of December 2024
Where: 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.
When: Available daily between 29th November and 22nd December
Where: 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.
When: December 2024
Where: 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.
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: Amberley Castle, Nr Arundel West Sussex, BN18 9LT
When: 24th – 27th of December 2024
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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