It’s hard to believe that we’re heading towards October, but there is still plenty to see and do in Sussex. With this in mind, and to help you get the most out of the month, here is our round up of what’s on in October in Sussex 2026.
Petworth House & Park
10 October – 1 November
Perfect for the children or grandchildren, We’re Going on a Ghost Hunt™ is coming to Petworth this Halloween. So why not join the fun! Can you find them all? Yes! Run, run, run! Based on the bestselling children’s books, this Halloween the Bunnies of Hoppity Hill are setting off on an adventure to find the ghosts hidden around Petworth’s Pleasure Garden, with heaps of exciting things to see and do along the way.
To book: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/petworth/visiting-petworth-house-and-park-with-family
Fire Cider Workshop at Old Tree Brewery
10 October 2026
A hands-on, nourishing day at the brewery in Glynde. Explore the land, then forage and craft your very own batch of fire cider, a traditional, non-alcoholic, herbal tonic steeped in apple cider vinegar and packed with immune-boosting goodness. Fire cider is a zesty folk remedy made from apple cider vinegar infused with a variety of potent ingredients, often including garlic, onions, horseradish, ginger, citrus, and chilli peppers.
Horsham Artists Contemporary Art Fair
17 – 18 October 2026
Horsham Artists’ flagship event will return to Parkside in October for another inspirational showcase of local artistic talent. The art on display will range from painting in oils, watercolours, ink and acrylics, to textiles, ceramics, glass, jewellery, up cycling, sculpture and photography. Refreshments will be available and there will be a series of workshops by artists, to share their skills and techniques. It’s a great opportunity to chat with the artists about their work and if you’re looking for a unique piece of art for your home or office, or for gifts, there will
be a wide choice of items for sale with prices to suit all budgets.
Parham House and Gardens House Tour
2 October 2026
Throughout the open season, Parham will run a variety of special tours of the House. These tours are designed for regular visitors who might never have had the opportunity to take a tour before. All places must be booked in advance via their website.
Octoberfest, The Langney, Eastbourne
2 October 2026
Hastings Bonfire Celebrations
17 October 2026
Bonfire societies from all over Sussex come together to march through the streets of Hastings in a procession of drums, flares and flaming torchlights. Along with a huge bonfire on the beach, the burning of the effigy and a spectacular firework display, the event commemorates the Battle of Hastings, and, of course, the traditional gunpowder plot of 1605.
Grape Picking Experience
From late September through October 2026.
This experience includes an opportunity to engage directly in winemaking amidst the picturesque landscapes of the vineyards. For more grape picking experiences, visit:
Fungi Walk, Borde Hill
10 October 2026
Delve into the fascinating (and weird) world of fungi with local mycologist, Clare Blencowe, as she leads a circular walk through the woods and meadows of Borde Hill’s heritage-listed South Park.
The Battle of Hastings Re-enactment
10 – 11 October 2026
The one and only Battle of Hastings re-enactment returns to Battle Abbey to celebrate 960 years since this significant event. Taking place on the very spot where King Harold and Duke William fought in 1066, don’t miss over 300 reenactors recreate the drama and intensity of this legendary conflict. Adventure into the encampments of the armies on either side of the historic battlefield, and come up close and personal with Saxon and Norman soldiers. Experience first-hand the intricacies of their weapons and the weight of their armour. Discover the clothes they wore, what food they ate and watch them practise their 11th century skills and craftsmanship. Meet falconers and their majestic birds of prey, or take a wander down the market and rummage through historical delights for a very special souvenir.
Conker Festival, Ferring
10 October 2026
Go bonkers for conkers with the Millers Tomb Morris at this unique and traditional event at The Henty Arms.
Great Dixter -Behind the Scenes
12 October 2026
The Behind the Scenes tour provides a special opportunity to enjoy a private viewing of the garden on a day when Great Dixter is normally closed to the public. You will gain insight into the making of the Great Dixter borders with one of the garden team plus a view into the propagation work in the nursery.
Chichester Cathedral Light Experience
23 – 31 October 2026
This year’s experience presents Illuminating Art by Luxmuralis, the internationally acclaimed artistic collaboration between artist Peter Walker and composer David Harper, transforming the 950-year-old Cathedral into an extraordinary world of moving images, colour, light and music.
Forget standing quietly in front of paintings. During Illuminating Art, the artwork comes to you. Huge projections sweep across the Cathedral’s ancient walls and architecture, images shift and move, colours change around you and an original musical score fills the building as you make your way through the experience.
Petworth Literary Festival
23 October – 7 November
Expect a stellar line up with a running programme of events, hosted in a number of venues including St Mary’s Church, Petworth House’s atmospheric Stable Yard and the magnificent music room of Champs Hill. The festival attracts artists and performers from the “very top drawer” right across the performing genres.
If you’ve enjoyed this post about What’s on in October in Sussex, you may also like:
