July already? The summer is well and truly upon us and here is our round up of some of the best of what’s on in July in Sussex.
Bronze Age Archaeological Digs, Hastings
5 – 11 July
At New Coghurst, they are currently excavating a Bronze Age settlement discovered in 2023. They welcome anyone who would like to assist with the excavation, for a unique and exciting way to engage with the ancient history. No archaeological experience is needed as supervision and tuition is provided. Book a weekly dig pass to attend as many days during dig week as you like, or book as you go.
Medieval Weekend Festival, Arundel Castle
5 – 6 July
Arundel Castle comes alive with the excitement of its Medieval Festival Weekend, and this time the clocks are turning back to 1471. Set against the backdrop of the lower lawns, visitors can join in the Earl of Arundel’s grand celebration of the end of the War of the Roses. Highlights include a thrilling knights’ foot tournament and a dramatic archery contest featuring competitors from England, France, Poland, and the Holy Roman Empire.
Explore the tented encampment and a bustling market, where historic crafts and skills are brought to life through engaging demonstrations. Behold spectacular displays of combat, falconry, fire eating and, of course, archery.
Ouse Valley Folk Festival, Newhaven
4 – 5 July
Two days of folk music featuring local musical mavericks Kate Daisy Grant, Nick Pynn, Sairie and Duck Soup.
Love Supreme Jazz Festival, Glynde Place
4 – 6 July
Now in its twelfth year, Love Supreme has become a significant fixture in the UK’s cultural calendar, offering a programme that spans jazz, soul, funk, R&B, and beyond. The 2025 edition features an extensive and varied line-up, including internationally recognised artists such as Nile Rodgers alongside emerging talent from the UK and beyond.
Wild and Wonderful Sculpture Exhibition, Standen House
Daily until 10 July
Alison Catchlove’s handcrafted metal sculptures are bright, humorous and detailed. Each piece is cut, hammered and welded from sheet steel in her Surrey Hills studio, then galvanised and painted to bring her imaginative visions to life. The exhibition is part of the garden trail.
Live Music at Lordington Lavender, near Chichester
11, 12 and 13 July
Catch the sunset vibes and dance the night away at these unique live music nights, or enjoy ‘Sunday Funday’ with all the family! No other dancefloor has a view like this. Nothing says ‘Summer Party’ like a live saxophone and DJ set and Tom Oliver has been bringing his electrifying sax performance to festivals, nightclubs and events throughout Europe. Now, he’s coming to Lordington Lavender to create a truly unforgettable night of music and dancing.
They also host adult-only evening events and opportunity to see the lavender in the beautiful evening light as the sun slowly sets over the hills. Alternatively, Sunday afternoons in the sunshine are made for music and their Sunday Funday session is perfect for all the family.
Summer Prom: Opera Gala at Abbot’s Hall, Battle Abbey
13 July
An unforgettable evening of music and drama in the the historic Abbott’s Hall, acclaimed local company Barefoot Opera present a Summer Prom, with extracts from Puccini, Verdi, Bizet, and more. With staged arias and scenes from some of the world’s most beloved operas, Barefoot Opera will enchant you from the first note to the rousing final chorus.
In Conversation with The Reverend Richard Coles, Chichester Cathedral
15 July
Join cleric, broadcaster, author and I’m A Celebrity star, The Reverend Richard Coles, in conversation with Colin Heber-Percy. The pair will be discussing Coles’ latest book in the best-selling Canon Clement Series, A Death on Location. This promises to be an engaging and enjoyable evening led by two charismatic storytellers. All proceeds go to the Children’s BookFest charity.
1812 Fireworks & Proms, Eastbourne Bandstand
2, 16 and 30 July
An iconic tradition that is celebrated every Wednesday evening, consisting of a culmination of concert music ending triumphantly with traditional proms favourites and Tchaikovsky’s 1812 overture accompanied by a spectacular Firework display.
Arundel Music Festival
11 – 13 July
This open-air music festival includes a fantastic line up of music with performances from both local talents, tribute acts and renowned artists including Coldplay, Desperado – Heart of the Eagles and Ultimate Bublé with his big band and 15 support acts. It is held on Brooks Field and tickets start from £30.
Festival of the Garden, Charleston Farmhouse Firle
17 – 20 July
Charleston invites you to explore the garden as a radical, resilient and restorative space. Join Alys Fowler, Frances Tophill, Poppy Okotcha, Caroline Lucas, Jamie Butterworth, Jason Allen-Paisant, Jo Thompson, Arthur Parkinson, Mikaela Loach and many more as they come together to reimagine how we live with the land, through talks, performances, walks and workshops.
Enjoy ticketed events on indoor and outdoor stages, free demos and ‘how-to’ sessions, a bustling plant and makers market and a City Books’ pop-up shop.
Wanderwild at Wakehurst
17 to 19 July
This summer, Wakehurst will be hosting Wanderwild, a twilight circus set against the background of a summer evening outdoors. Wanderwild will bring an exciting fusion of award-winning talent from the West End to an al-fresco stage at Wakehurst. A biodiverse tapestry of woodlands, swaying grasses, and tranquil water gardens forms the ideal setting for this unique night out in nature.
Horsham Museum Lates
18 July
Horsham Museum and Art Gallery is once again hosting its late evening openings and the chance to explore its exhibitions out of hours and enjoy live entertainment from Sloth in the City – a Brighton Jazz Duo as well as refreshments.
Fairy & Dragon Trail in the Garden
19 July – 30th August
Meet the woodland fairies and their secretive friends in High Beeches Garden. Discover giant toadstools, dandelions and keep a look out for the mischievous sprites and boggarts, not to mention a friendly dragon; you may even find a unicorn and her foal. Why not dress up as your favourite fairy and join in the fun. The trail is designed for all ages, and the circular walk takes about an hour culminating in a wishing tree. Information to book tickets is on the High Beeches website.
South Downs Summer Music, Alfriston, Lullington and Litlington
Hastings Pirate Weekend
Shiver ya’ timbers, and head to Hastings for swashbuckling pirates. The event includes live music at the Stade, side shows, pirate acts, storytelling, games and treasure hunts, perhaps the odd parrot and other surprises along the way.
The Sussex Guild Contemporary Craft Show, Michelham Priory
25 – 27 July
Showcasing a wide range of handmade ceramics, textiles, jewellery, leatherwork, stone carving, pewter, wood, glass, furniture and printmaking in marquees on the lawns as well as in Michelham Priory‘s Elizabethan barn. Some designers will be demonstrating their skills, so you’ll see jewellery making, woodturning, embroidery and quilting, together with several potters showing different techniques.
Theatre at Sullington Manor Farm
27 July
Two plays, 40 minutes each and four actors. Think lots of outfit changes, props, laughter & a hint of audience participation.
The Wind in the Willows, Weald & Downland Living Museum
31 July, 6pm – 8pm
Award-winning Illyria Theatre celebrates Kenneth Grahame’s timeless tale of friendship, laughter, the longing for home and the lure of adventure. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Museum’s tranquil mill pond and enchanting historic buildings, audiences can bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a magical evening of outdoor theatre.
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