Festive magic comes to South Downs National Park
November 4, 2024
A winter wonderland of festivities is coming soon with a bumper line-up of events across the National Park.
From insights into the winter celebrations of Romans, Celts and Edwardians, to festive fayres with chestnuts roasting and carol singing aplenty, there’s something for everyone to enjoy over the next few weeks.
Seven Sisters Country Park, near Seaford, will be hosting its popular Christmas Market over the weekend of 7 and 8 December.
Entry is free and there will be 25 gift stalls spread across the historic pump barn, while over in the nearby Salthouse Farm House there will be lots of merriment with live music and Christmas carols.
There will be no shortage of festive fare for people to enjoy with mince pies, Christmas cookies, festive coffee and, of course, mulled wine.
The National Park’s Communications and Engagement team will also be attending, sharing ideas for Christmas walks, the best stargazing spots this winter and fun facts about the South Downs.
Richard Ayres, Visitor Service Manager at Seven Sisters, said: “Come and celebrate with us and get into the festive spirit! Our market stalls will include pottery, clothing, jewellery, prints, artwork, local produce and homeware. It promises to be a wonderful weekend and is also a great way of supporting local, independent businesses.”
Meanwhile, people will be able to explore Stansted House, near Rowlands Castle, as the Edwardian Mansion is beautifully decorated for the festive season.
Enjoy an ‘upstairs, downstairs’ experience as you stroll through the house and admire the traditional decorations.
Learn about how the Earls of Bessborough celebrated Christmas and discover more about the Queen Mother’s visit in December 1939 before moving downstairs to learn about the servants’ experiences during the festive season.
Stansted House will be open for free-flow visits on Sunday 8 December and Sunday 15 December.
Over at Butser Ancient Farm, near Waterlooville, there will be the opportunity to find out about the yules of yesteryear. “Midwinter’s Magical Quest” will allow visitors to slow down, reconnect with nature and explore the ancient folklore of winter.
Set against the backdrop of Butser’s historic buildings, this immersive, family-friendly event will journey through time to experience the winter customs of the Saxons, Romans, Celts, and Neolithic peoples.
Kristin Devey, Commercial Manager at Butser, said: “It’s an exciting alternative to the traditional Father Christmas experience, and has a message of the simple blessings of winter.
“Our beautiful houses will be open where families can meet the Rowena The Saxon Lady of Yule, Felix the Saturnalia Lord of Misrule, our Deer Queen and Holly King, do make-and-take natural crafts and warm themselves around a crackling fire for stories with hot, mulled drinks and sweet treats.”
The quest is running three times a day on all weekends in December, from 7 to 22 December.
Historic towns and villages across the National Park will be hosting Christmas events, including Petersfield where the Square will boast over 100 stalls on 8 December selling everything from handmade gifts to locally- produced food and drink. The centre of the town will come alive with festive cheer with a street party and tree lights switch-on on 7 December.
In Lewes, the picturesque streets will boast an array of stalls for the Christmas Makers Market on 7 December, with artisanal crafts, local delicacies like Sussex cheese, mulled wine, and festive performances by local choirs and musicians.
In Midhurst, the annual Street Party and Christmas Tree Light Switch will take place on 6 December, with a Santa’s Grotto, music and businesses staying open late with a cheeky mince pie or two for customers.
For more festive events in the National Park, visit www.southdowns.gov.uk/events/events-calendar/