Colourful gardens and historic bonfire celebrations make Sussex a standout destination this autumn
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From vineyard harvests, historic re-enactments and walking through crisp, copper-coloured gardens, Sussex is set to be a standout destination in autumn for those wanting to escape the city and celebrate the cozy season on the coast.
Exhibitions that showcase the work of the sculptor Henry Moore, explore the connection of coastlines and light up the remarkable architecture at Chichester Cathedral are some of the many events that form part of Sussex's packed autumnal calendar.
Jo Williams from Experience Sussex said: "Autumn marks a chance for Sussex to celebrate how our landscapes and culture change with the seasons and we want to inspire visitors and residents alike that Sussex is the perfect destination for an autumn escape.
"Our many vineyards have entered their harvests, farms are preparing for pumpkin picking, and Bonfire Night will see local groups across Sussex join forces to commemorate the historic moment that is integral to our heritage with some fantastic firework displays."
Calendar of culture
Glyndebourne, near Lewes, will start its autumn season from 14 October, where new work and emerging talent in the operatic world will shine on stage. The new season will also see a more informal and affordable experience for visitors, with more than 11,000 tickets available for under £50 each, making it an accessible, alternative activity in the heart of Sussex, just a short train ride from London.
Luxmuralis will return to Chichester Cathedral from 23 to 31 October, where the walls and ceilings of the Grade I Listed Buildings will be transformed through projection, light and music.
Harvest celebrations
Trenchmore Farm, near Horsham, will host its Apple Swap and Harvest across weekends in September and October, where visitors can spend a weekend nearby and bring in apples to swap for Silly Moo Cider, or a voucher, in return.
For those who want a hands-on harvesting experience, the Tinwood Estate in Chichester will invite guests to take part in theirs until 22 September. Visitors can hand-pick grapes that will be used in Tinwood's vintage wine, followed by a hearty, seasonal lunch.
The family behind Tibbs Farm, in Rye, will celebrate their 336th annual hop harvest on 19 September. The day will be full of family-friendly events, home-reared food, and a specialist line up of local ales.
The Battle of Hastings and Bonfire Night traditions
10 and 11 October will mark the 960th anniversary re-enactment of the Battle of Hastings at Battle Abbey, where more than 300 actors will recreate the drama of the legendary conflict on the very site it took place. With the Bayeux Tapestry on display at the British Museum, 2026 marks the perfect time to watch the battle unfold.
Bonfire Night is rooted in Sussex's history, and societies across the region will take to the streets from Buxted to Burgess Hill, to Eastbourne to Littlehampton, for the tradition across several weekends this season. Dazzling firework displays, entertainment and marching bands make each event one to remember.
More to explore across Sussex
Other events and experiences across Sussex this autumn include:
- National Trust garden displays including Sheffield Park, Nymans and Petworth
- Kew Wakehurst, where an exhibition on Henry Moore runs until May 2027
- Goodwood Revival, in Chichester, for an Italian 'La Dolce Vita' style weekend from 18 to 20 September
- EDGE at Hastings Contemporary, a new exhibition will explore the connection between land and sea
- Pumpkin picking at Tulleys Farm in Crawley, Europe's largest pumpkin festival with 1.5 million pumpkins and gourds available, from 19 September to the end of October
- Walking routes across the Seven Sisters and Rye, where scenes from new films Pressure and Pride and Prejudice were filmed
For more information and to plan your visit, go to www.experiencesussex.com
Ends
Editors notes
For further information, please contact:
Fran Herring, Samantha Clark or Flo Powell
Midnight Communications
01273 666 200
About Experience Sussex
Experience Sussex is a destination marketing and storytelling platform dedicated to showcasing the very best of Sussex, from its vibrant towns and cultural hotspots to its coastline, countryside and independent businesses. Through curated guides, features and local insights, Experience Sussex connects visitors and residents alike with authentic experiences across the region.
Working with local partners, hospitality venues and attractions, the platform champions Sussex as a year-round destination, celebrating its food and drink scene, events, heritage and creative communities.
Experience Sussex aims to support local economies by driving discovery, encouraging exploration and highlighting the unique character that makes Sussex one of the UK’s most compelling places to visit and experience.
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