As the clocks finally spring forward and the days grow longer, lighter and warmer, Sussex throws open its doors to a riot of colour and a calendar brimming with wonderful things to do. From historic gardens bursting into bloom to music festivals, woodland walks and heady carpets of wild garlic, spring in Sussex is a corker. So, if you are looking for things to do in Sussex in spring, what about:
Sussex tulip festivals
Sussex is now home to three quite spectacular tulip festivals, spread across West, Mid and East Sussex. They each have their own distinctive take on this joyful springtime spectacle. At Arundel Castle, thousands of tulips create bold sweeps of colour beneath the castle walls, combining horticultural drama with one of the county’s most iconic backdrops. Pashley Manor offers a refined and painterly display, where tulips sit in harmony with formal gardens and sculpture. Tulleys Farm brings a more contemporary feel, with vibrant planting designed for wandering, photographing and lingering.
Bluebell walks & wild garlic
With so much ancient woodland, you don’t have to go far to find carpets of bluebells interspersed with wonderfully fragrant wild garlic. Combine a walk with a pub lunch, and it’s a spring win! Here are a few suggestions:
Big bloomers
If you still haven’t had enough spring colour, then get yourself to Leonardslee, Borde Hill, High Beeches or Wakehurst for spectacular displays of camellias, azaleas, magnolias and rhododendrons!
Medieval reenactments
Calling all history buffs. Spring also marks the return of Sussex’s outdoor living history and two Medieval festivals kick off the season: Arundel Easter Medieval Festival in April and the Battle of Lewes reenactment in May. These events are immersive, noisy, theatrical and a brilliant way to learn more about our Sussex history.
Festival fever
Talking of festivals, the Sussex festival season has a lot to offer in spring. You could head to Petworth House for their Spring Festival for a horticultural vibe and a Makers Market (5-27 April). Or you could head to Charleston near Lewes for some intellectual stimulation at their famous literary and arts festival (13-25 May). For something altogether more eclectic, head to Brighton’s multi-arts festival (1-25 May) or go to Gyndebourne for world class opera (21 May -30 August).
Jack in the Green, Hastings
One of Sussex’s most beloved and theatrical traditions, Jack on the Green in Hastings marks May Day in spectacular style with parades, giant effigies, Morris dancers and a glorious explosion of greenery. It’s exuberant, slightly chaotic, and utterly joyful. Sussex folklore at its finest.
Easter egg hunts and spring trails
Across the county, National Trust properties burst into family-friendly life as spring arrives. Easter egg hunts, seasonal trails and garden activities begin popping up, making spring an ideal time to explore heritage with younger visitors in tow.
Lambing season
Few sights say “spring in Sussex” quite like lambing. Across farms and open countryside, fields fill with new life as lambs wobble into the world. The Sussex lambing season at Coombes Farm near Lancing starts on 14 March (tickets required). And keep an eye on Middle Farm near Firle for details of their lambing events.
Calling all foodies
Brighton’s Foodies Festival (2 – 4 May) promises to be the UK’s biggest celebration of food and drink, while Eastbourne’s Beer and Cider by the Sea Festival (15-17 May) is all ways fun. The Pour Choices Natural Wine Fair in Brighton is on 18 April and spring is a great time to visit some of the county’s many vineyards for a tour or tasting experience.
Get active or just watch!
Spring heralds the Brighton Marathon (April) and Half Marathon (March). Perhaps you want to take part, or maybe you just want to watch, but either way, the whole town takes on a carnvival feel for these two epic sporting events!
If you are looking for more things to do in Sussex in spring, then you may like:
