Events
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, the South Downs Joint Committee cannot accept responsibility for any errors, omissions or inconveniences caused. We advise that you visit the websites or contact the organiser of the event to check details before attending.
If you would like to suggest an event for this section of the website, please complete and submit our events form.
Wildlife Walkabouts with the RSPB
08-Jan-2009 - 31-Dec-2010Join staff and volunteers for an informal nature walk each Thursday
Wiggonholt, Pulborough Brooks, Pulborough, West Sussex
Set in the sheltered Arun valley, Pulborough Brooks is a fantastic place for a day out for people of all ages. There is a superb nature reserve and trail with birdwatching hides and viewpoints.Meet The Animals at Middle Farm
02-Jan-2010 - 31-Dec-2010Come and meet the friendly chickens, ducks, spotted pigs and donkeys. Don’t miss the playful rabbits and guinea pigs. There are timed events throughout the day, including the prize-winning pedigree Jersey cows being milked each afternoon. Nestling at the foot of Firle Beacon on the South Downs in Sussex, Middle Farm is a 625 acre working family farm. We offer a warm country welcome, with something for every member of the family to enjoy.
Firle, Lewes, East Sussex,BN8 6LJViews From Ditchling Exhibition
01-May-2010 - 14-Nov-2010A predominantly Collection exhibition showing works that celebrate the powerful local landscape captured by artists who have lived in the village including Eric Gill, Frank Brangwyn, David Jones and Charles Knight. The downland setting and rural way of life inspired artists including Eric Gill, Edward Johnston, David Jones, and Ethel Mairet to settle in Ditchling in the early years of the 20th Century. The international recognition that followed, as a centre for print, calligraphy, weaving and other crafts, is reflected in the Museum's permanent collection, and the programme of exhibitions and educational events.
Church Lane Ditchling Sussex BN6 8TB1812 Bandstand Fireworks Concerts
02-Jun-2010 - 22-Sep-2010Music and fireworks at the bandstand.Eastbourne is proud of its well preserved 1930's bandstand.It is one of the most distinctive sights with its blue dome and silver finial.
Grand Parade, Eastbourne, East Sussex
This is a traditional concert that has been performed in Eastbourne for over 25 years and the night has a special twist - culminating with a spectacular firework display to Tchaikovsky's 1812 overture.Artwave
28-Aug-2010 - 12-Sep-2010Artwave is the annual visual arts festival for the Lewes District, showcasing the inspirational works of local artists and makers in venues across the District. From farmhouses to metal workshops, gardens to industrial sites, visual art is displayed for all to enjoy and the event is a must for any creative diary.
Lewes and the surrounding area, East Sussex.
Artwave offers a fantastic opportunity for visitors to view artwork by experts and novices side by side, with the opportunity to buy pieces directly from the artists and makers - finding out exactly what moved them to create.Brighton & Hove Food Festival
06-Sep-2010 - 07-Oct-2010The Brighton & Hove Food and Drink Festival is a celebration of the best food and drink to be found in the city & wider Sussex, with producers, restaurants, pubs,bars, retailers, markets & great events firmly at its heart. See website for full list of events.
Various locationsHeritage Open Days
09-Sep-2010 - 12-Sep-2010Heritage Open Days celebrates England's fantastic architecture and culture by offering free access to properties that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission. Every year buildings of every age, style and function throw open their doors. It is a once-a-year chance to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities which bring to life local history and culture. There are numerous sites all over the South Downs region - for a full listing see the website. Some events require pre-booking.
Autumn Steam Gala at the Watercress Line
10-Sep-2010 - 12-Sep-2010Exclusively steam! Our extremely popular steam gala from the 10th - 12th September continues the celebrations for our recently restored Black 5. Come and see her work a special timetable along with our fleet of steam locomotives and guest engines.
The Railway Station, Alresford, HampshireFindon Sheep Fair
10-Sep-2010 - 11-Sep-2010Friday Night begins with a funfair on the green then rock and roll dance and curry in the marquee.
Nepcote Green, Findon Village, West Sussex
Saturday is the fair itself, with craft stalls, sheep displays, dog show and other displays on the green.See website for full details.Fernhurst Furnace Open Days
11-Sep-2010 - 12-Sep-2010A unique historical event trying to capture some of the spirit of when the iron industry was alive in the Weald. With an assorted mix of talks, walks, displays, refreshments and special features including tours of the Furnace, musket cannon and longbow demonstrations.
North Park Furnace, one mile west of Fernhurst.Heritage Open Day at Petworth House
11-Sep-2010join a behind the scenes tour of rarely seen external areas of Petworth House. Tours of Petworth House at 12pm and 2.30pm. Maximum of 15 people per tour. Visitors can also take a tour of the Petworth Cottage Museum, just a few minutes walk from Petworth House. The cottage was once home to the seamstress Mrs Cummings who worked at Petworth House. Tours of Petworth Cottage at 12.30pm, 2.00pm and 3.30pm. Meet in Church Lodge, maximum of 20 people per tour.
Petworth House, Petworth, West Sussex, GU28 0AEHeritage Open Day at Alfriston Clergy House
11-Sep-2010A medieval thatched cottage and picturesque garden Alfriston Clergy House is the first building purchased by the National Trust, in 1896, for £10.
Alfriston Clergy House, The Tye, Alfriston, East Sussex, BN26 5TLHeritage Open Day at Uppark
11-Sep-2010Fine late 17th-century house elevated upon the South Downs with renowned Grand Tour Collection. Impressive Georgian doll's-house. Intimate 19th-century 'Picturesque' gardens and magnificent panoramic views to the sea.
South Harting, Petersfield, Chichester, West Sussex, GU31 5QRHeritage Weekend at Winchester City Mill
11-Sep-2010 - 12-Sep-2010Working watermill situated in the centre of historic Winchester. Join in the hand-milling of flour with video and exhibitions on the history, technology and wildlife of the Mill. Family activities and quiz trails and pretty garden on an island in the River Itchen.
Bridge Street, Winchester, Hampshire SO23 0EJ
Battle of Britain Commemoration at Newhaven Fort
12-Sep-2010The 70th anniversary of The Battle of Britain and one of the most important events in our annual calendar, the Battle of Britain commemoration will be a day of 1940s nostalgia and remembrance.
Fort Road, Newhaven, East Sussex, BN9 9DS
President of the Seaford Royal Airforce Association Don Mabey accompanied by the Vice President of the Seaford Royal Airforce Association and Squadron Leader Peter Bonfiel will officially open the days events at 10:50am.
The entertainment will begin at 11am with a performance from the Seaford Silver band, playing classic war time tunes, followed by a lively 1940's dance display by Studio Tempo. An array of period military vehicles will be setting the scene on the Fort’s parade ground and our favourite Swing-time Sweethearts, quarterfinalists on Britain’s Got Talent, will be transporting visitors back to the era by singing 1940s favourites.
The annual Women’s Land Army reunion will also be taking place, allowing guests the opportunity to reunite and reminisce with old friends and there will be charity fundraising for The Dame Vera Lynn Trust for children with Cerebral Palsy throughout the day.
The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will complete the day as a World War II Spitfire & Hurricane perform a spectacular flypast over the Fort ramparts. (* subject to operating conditions)
*Please note due to a large number of anticipated visitors timed entry maybe applicable at certain timesHeritage Open Day at Stansted Park
12-Sep-2010This annual family event takes place with free outdoor and indoor events at Stansted Park.
Rowlands Castle, Hampshire, PO9 6DXSaddlescombe Farm Heritage Open Day
12-Sep-2010As part of the Heritage Open Days enjoy free tours around this ancient downland farm, once home to the Knights Templar. Tours of the 17th century buildings, the surrounding downs and the walled garden. Tea and home-made cakes available from the Hiker's Rest cafe.
Saddlescombe Farm, nr Poynings, East Sussex, map ref. TQ273115
