The best festive events in Sussex - What to do and see this Christmas
There is definitely more than a bite in the air now as the leaves swirl in the garden and the nights are drawing in. Although many are still golden as we write, the bare branches of some trees are starting to silhouette the sky; and there is a squelch under foot as we walk.
This is the time of year for rosy-cheeked wandering; hearty meals in front of crackling fires, festive trails and Christmas markets packed full of moreish food and delectable products. The Grain Store is the perfect base for exploring all of the festive wonders that Sussex offers; and we can promise the perfect blend of cosy and quiet when you come back after a day of exploring. To help you plan your Winter visit, here are some suggestions that we are sure will entice you.
Illuminating evenings
You can see the UK’s tallest living Christmas tree, a giant redwood, from miles away. This Sequoiadendron giganteum stands at approximately 37m tall and is decorated with more than 1,800 energy-saving lights each winter at Wakehurst Place near Ardingly. It is the centerpiece of the site's annual winter light trail, Glow Wild, which sees the magical gardens lit by magical beasts and wonders untold. It runs from 27 November 2025 to 3 January 2026; and is well worth a visit. It’s one of the most popular Sussex Christmas light trails, drawing visitors from across the county.
Leonardslee Lights in nearby Horsham is also now a firm local favourite and this year’s theme is “A Midwinter Light’s Dream”. The organisers promise light, sound and spectacle as visitors wander along woodland trails and past the estate’s lake. This year, there is also a village to welcome visitors at the end of their walk with an indoor bar, firepits for marshmallow roasting, freshly made doughnuts, live performers, and both indoor and outdoor seating. Both make wonderful additions to your list of Sussex festive events.
Elves and fairytales
In Sussex, we are lucky to be home to a wonderful array of historic homes lovingly cared for by the National Trust. Christmas is a beautiful time to visit as they are brought even more to life with twinkling trees, songs and stories. Just a short drive from The Grain Store are three of our favourites - Standen, Nymans and Sheffield Park - each of which are offering different festive experiences.
Standen is an Arts and Crafts fan’s dream; and its glorious wallpapers and decor will be enhanced by gentle Christmas lighting but there is also a Christmas play, Finding Father Christmas, for younger visitors. Sheffield Park, meanwhile, is hosting the naughty Elf on the Shelf and friends, while Nymans is promising fairytales and wonder galore. All three places have superb cafes so make sure you leave time for a warm drink and a mincepie.
Merry markets and festive fairs
From late November, many of our towns host Christmas markets offering everything from Sussex produce to beautiful crafts. On 4th December, our local town of Lewes will hold its Lewes Christmas market with late night shopping and more than 60 stalls. Why not head early and explore for the whole day. As we shared in this handy little guide, there is plenty to see and do.
Further afield, St Leonards is holding its annual Frost Fair on 29th November, which includes a colourful parade taking in everything from folklore to fairytales; and this is as well as a Christmas market. It’s an hour’s drive so why not meander back along the coast, and visit the De La Warr pavilion at Bexhill; look out for the Long Man of Wilmington and finally stop at Middle Farm to buy some mulled cider and cakes on your way back to us.
Whether you're planning Sussex winter escapes, searching for Christmas light trails, or curating your own list of Sussex festive events, the team at The Grain Store would be only too happy to share our local knowledge with you so please do let us know if there is something specific that would kindle your festive spirit. We can recommend our favourite places to eat in Sussex, including the best pubs in Lewes; have hundreds of ideas on day trips and are absolutely passionate about making sure our guests make the most of their time in our county. Please do reach out as we would love to welcome you to The Grain Store.
