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Winter, Christmas & NYE Events in West Sussex 2025–26
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Winter in West Sussex is a magical time for adults seeking cosy evenings, festive cheer, and fun indoor and outdoor experiences. At this time of year, the county comes alive with a rich mix of wine tastings, live music, jazz nights, winter workshops, theatre performances, seasonal markets, spa escapes, and cultural events.
This guide rounds up the most exciting adult-focused winter events across West Sussex, including Bolney’s unmissable vineyard experiences, to help you plan your perfect winter escape.
Vineyards & Winter Wine Experiences
Bolney Wine Estate
Location: Foxhole Lane, Bolney, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH17 5NB
West Sussex is home to some of England’s most celebrated vineyards, and Bolney Wine Estate offers a perfect luxury festive setting. Surrounded by rows of vines, you can spend winter evenings enjoying fine local wine, live music, and seasonal small plates.
- Dates / Time: Fri 5, 12 & 19 Dec 2025, 18:30–22:00
- Details: Celebrate the festive season with live music, a welcome drink, and a selection of small plates, sharing boards, and desserts available to purchase.
- Dates / Times: Launched 14 Nov 2025, Fridays at 17:30 & Saturdays at 11:00
- Details: Guided tasting of twelve hand-selected Bolney wines — ideal for discovering new favourites for your Christmas table.
Winter Wine & Live Music Night
- Date / Time: Fri 30 Jan 2026, 18:30–21:30
- Details: A relaxed evening with live acoustic music, award-winning wines, and seasonal food options.
Bolney Vineyard Tour & Tasting Sessions
- Various dates and times
- Details: Enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard, learning about the English winemaking process, followed by a tasting of Bolney’s finest wines. It’s a perfect way to explore the winter estate and sample its seasonal offerings.
Why it’s special: Bolney offers a sophisticated, intimate ambience, ideal for adults seeking a blend of festive atmosphere and luxury wines.
Stately Homes & Historic Christmas Experiences
Stately homes transform into festive wonderlands at Christmas, with twinkling lights, seasonal decorations, and enchanting events. Step inside to enjoy seasonal interiors, fluffy Christmas trees, and holiday cheer.
Image credit: National Trust Petworth House
Petworth House & Park
- Location: Petworth, West Sussex, GU28 0AE
- The Event: A Christmas Enchantment
- Dates: 29 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026 (closed 24–25 Dec)
- Details: Wander through grand state rooms, each beautifully decorated to reflect winter landscapes, woodland creatures, and celestial skies. On Sat 20 Dec, enjoy a special evening visit with a courtyard choir performance.
Uppark House & Garden
- Location: South Harting, Petersfield, West Sussex, GU31 5QR
- The Event: Christmas at Uppark
- Dates: 9–24 Dec 2025
- Details: Explore Georgian interiors adorned with festive décor, from glittering trees in the grand rooms to charming seasonal touches in the servants’ quarters.
Cowdray
- Location: River Ground Stables, Midhurst, West Sussex, GU29 9AL
- The Event: Cowdray Ruins Kitchen: Christmas Through the Ages
- Date / Time: Sat 13 Dec 2025, 12:00-13:00
- Details: Head into a Tudor Kitchen as costumed guides tell you all about the traditional food and drink from different historic times, and sample an up-to-date version with a mulled drink and a mince pie.
Why it’s special: Both homes offer timeless heritage, festive elegance, and a sense of quiet enchantment, ideal for visitors seeking to experience Christmas as a traditional English country celebration.
Christmas Markets
From quaint towns to historic estates, West Sussex hosts a variety of Christmas markets for unique gifts, festive treats, and seasonal cheer. Here are just a few in December.
Image credit: Experience Sussex
- Location: Northgate, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1JL
- Dates: 12–14 Dec 2025
- Details: Seasonal stalls, festive food, and local crafts in the heart of Chichester.
- Location: Burnthouse Lane, Cowfold, West Sussex, RH13 8DG
- Date / Time: Sat 13 Dec 2025, 11:00–16:00
- Details: 15 Sussex food and drink producers, wagyu burgers, sourdough pizza, street food, live music, and farm tours. Family and dog-friendly.
- Location: Carfax, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1EE
- Date / Time: 7, 14, 21, 22, 23, 24 Dec 2025, 09:00-16:00
- Details: A festive marketplace filled with mulled wine, artisan gifts, handcrafted goods, seasonal treats, and live music — perfect for Christmas browsing.
- Location: Arundel Town Centre, West Sussex, BN18 9AP
- Date: Sat 20 Dec 2025
- Details: Boutique shopping across Arundel’s historic high street, live music, festive windows, and late-night openings — ideal for refined, atmospheric Christmas shopping.
Why it’s special: For those on the hunt for handcrafted gifts, an immersive experience, and to see local towns in all their Christmas lights, West Sussex Christmas markets are the place to go.
Winter Crafts & Workshops
West Sussex offers a range of festive crafting experiences, perfect for adults and older teens who want to get creative this Christmas. From wreath-making to upcycling old books, these workshops provide a hands-on, seasonal escape.
Midhurst Christmas Wreath Making & Lunch
- Location: The Spread Eagle, Midhurst, GU29 9DY
- Dates / Time: 27 Nov, 3 Dec, 9 Dec & 11 Dec 2025, 10:00 – 12:00
- Details: Guests create their own stunning wreaths, then enjoy a two-course lunch with a glass of Sussex sparkling wine.
Steyning Bookshop Christmas Crafting Evening
- Location: 106 High Street, Steyning, West Sussex, BN44 3RD
- Date / Time: Thu 18 Dec 2025, 19:00
- Details: Upcycle old books into festive decorations with all materials supplied and snacks included.
- Location: The Boat House Cafe, Chichester Marina, PO20 7EJ
- Date / Time: Thu 11 Dec, 19:00-21:00
- Details: A paint and sip evening for adults where you can get creative and enjoy an alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink. Suitable for all painting levels.
Why it’s special: There is something rewarding about creating your own festive art pieces to display at home.
Winter Lights, Outdoor Experiences & Ice Rinks
West Sussex transforms into a winter playground for people, young and old, with atmospheric light trails, elegant ice rinks, and outdoor experiences that capture the season’s joy.
Image credit: Tulleys
Tulleys Christmas Light Festival
- Location: Tulleys Farm, Turners Hill, West Sussex, RH10 4PD
- Date: 28 Nov 2025 – 3 Jan 2026
- Details: Step into a glowing forest experience, complete with live music, festive street food, mulled wine, and a handpicked Christmas market. VIPs can enjoy the Après Ski Club with cocktails and a live DJ. The 33m Observation Wheel towers over the treetops for an unforgettable evening.
Leonardslee Lights — “A Midwinter Light’s Dream”
- Location: Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, Lower Beeding, Horsham, West Sussex, RH13 6PP
- Date: 28 Nov – 30 Dec 2025
- Details: Magical light installations in woodland and lakeside settings.
- Location: Wakehurst, Selsfield Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH17 6TN
- Date: 27 Nov 2025 – 3 Jan 2026
- Details: An award-winning illuminated wonderland, exclusively handcrafted by leading artists. Walk among giants and discover wildlife-inspired installations.
- Location: Seal Bay Resort, Warner’s Lane, Selsey, West Sussex, PO20 9EL
- Date: 12 Dec 2025 – 2 Jan 2026
- Details: Glide under sparkling lights, perfect for friends, family, or a romantic outing.
Why it’s special: These experiences combine nature, light, music, and seasonal treats for magical winter evenings outdoors.
Venues for Theatre, Arts, Comedy & Music
During winter, there are so many cultural gems to see, offering indoor warmth and festive entertainment.
Image credit: Chichester Festival Theatre
- Chichester Festival Theatre, Chichester — seasonal drama and musicals.
- The Capitol Horsham, Horsham — comedy nights, live music, and festive shows.
- Ropetackle Arts Centre, Shoreham-by-Sea — jazz, theatre, and concerts.
- The Hawth, Crawley — touring performances, dance, and music events.
- Worthing Theatres & Museum, Worthing — concerts and seasonal performances by the sea.
- Pallant House Gallery, Chichester — art exhibitions, festive concerts, and creative events.
Highlight shows: Shakespeare & Christmas in Rother (Mermaid Inn, Rye, 13 Dec) and Petworth Voices Concert at Stansted House (14 Dec).
Why it’s special: These venues offer warm, indoor festive entertainment when it’s too cold to stay outside.
Spas & Wellness Retreats
Winter in West Sussex is ideal for adults seeking rest, pampering, and cosy spa escapes. Whether you’re planning a soothing winter reset, a festive spa treat, or a luxury pre-NYE wind-down, these top spas offer indulgence, tranquillity, and exceptional facilities perfect for the colder months.
Image credit: Alexander House Hotel & Spa
Alexander House Hotel & Utopia Spa
- Location: Turners Hill, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH10 4QD
- Details: A 5-star countryside spa renowned for luxury, indulgence, and award-winning facilities.
- Utopia Spa facilities: Indoor pool, outdoor hot tub, hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, relaxation lounges, gym, spa garden, therapy rooms, Temple Spa treatments.
Chichester Harbour Hotel & Spa
- Location: 57 North Street, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1NH
- Details: A boutique, stylish spa in the centre of Chichester — ideal for a peaceful winter escape.
- HarSPA facilities: Hydrotherapy pool, steam room, relaxation room, gymnasium, 14 spa packages.
The Beauty Island Sanctuary
- Location: 75 Victoria Rd, Worthing, West Sussex, BN11 1UN
- Details: A serene modern-day spa offering soothing treatments and quiet relaxation.
- The Beauty Island facilities: Hydrotherapy pool, sauna, spa loungers, relaxation room, 12 spa packages.
The Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa
- Location: South Street, Midhurst, West Sussex, GU29 9NH
- Details: A charming medieval coaching inn with a warm and atmospheric spa.
- The Spread Eagle Spa facilities: Indoor heated pool, Scandinavian hot tub, relaxation rooms, Temple Spa treatments.
Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa
- Location: Climping Street, Atherington, Littlehampton BN17 5RW
- Details: One of West Sussex’s most luxurious spa experiences, blending medieval style with modern wellness.
- Bailiffscourt spa facilities: Indoor and outdoor heated pools, hot tub, steam room, sauna, outdoor relaxation spaces, and holistic treatments.
Park House Hotel & Spa
- Location: 1 Bepton Road, Midhurst, West Sussex, GU29 0JB
- Details: A peaceful South Downs retreat ideal for winter wellness.
- Park House spa facilities: Indoor pool, outdoor heated pool, steam room, sauna, fitness studio, treatment rooms.
Why it’s special: West Sussex’s spa scene blends historic ambience, luxury wellness, and serene countryside settings—ideal for festive pampering, restorative winter escapes, or indulgent trips before and after Christmas celebrations.
New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
From black-tie galas to coastal fireworks and daytime New Year walks, West Sussex offers elegant and enjoyable ways to welcome 2026.
Image credit: The Pig Hotel
Worthing Seafront – NYE Fireworks
- Location: Worthing Promenade, West Sussex, BN11
- Date / Time: Midnight, 31 December 2025
- Details: Perfect for adults and groups wanting a lively open-air celebration as fireworks light up the coastline.
Amberley Castle – New Year’s Eve Gala
- Location: Amberley Castle, Amberley, West Sussex, BN18 9LT
- Day / Time: Evening of 31 December 2025
- Details: A luxurious black-tie celebration featuring a gourmet multi-course dinner, fine wines, Champagne at midnight, and private fireworks within the castle grounds.
The Venue, Worthing – NYE Party
- Location: The Venue, 55b Chapel Road, Worthing, West Sussex, BN11 1EG
- Day / Time: Wed 31 Dec 2025, late-night
- Details: A premium party night with DJs, dancing, cocktails, and a lively adult-only atmosphere.
The Pig Hotel, Arundel – NYE Dinner
- Location: Madehurst, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 0NL
- Day / Time: Wed 31 Dec 2025
- Details: The Pig In The South Downs restaurant offers an indulgent eight-course New Year’s Eve festive menu, starting with a welcome glass of fizz and a midnight piper to welcome 2026.
Chichester Harbour – New Year’s Eve Paddle
- Location / Launch Point: Itchenor Public Slipway, Chichester Harbour, West Sussex, PO20 7AW
- Day / Time: Wed 31 Dec 2025, 23:00–01:00
- Details: Experience a magical New Year’s Eve with Fluid Adventures’ Night Kayak Adventure, paddling under the stars with a midnight prosecco toast to welcome 2026.
New Year’s Day Coastal Walks
Date: 1 January 2026
Beautiful adult-friendly winter walks are perfect for clearing the head after a late night.
Suggested routes:
- Worthing Pier to Goring (stop at The Bluebird Café)
- Shoreham to Southwick Beach (ideal with brunch at Perch)
- Littlehampton East Beach to Rustington (cosy pubs en route)
These pair perfectly with pub lunches, sea air, and a gentle start to the new year.
Ready to organise your Christmas outings?
Pick the events that appeal to you, book any ticketed sessions in advance, and enjoy the festive workshops, markets and celebrations across West Sussex. Gather your favourite people, head out, and make this Christmas season a joyful time with experiences that feel special.
Plan your festive visit to Bolney Wine Estate
Explore the monthly calendar of events and tours at Bolney Wine Estate, from Festive Fridays and guided wine tastings to Winter Wine & Live Music Nights. Book your preferred experience and enjoy the vineyard at its seasonal best.
Sparkling Wines to celebrate with this New Year’s Eve
The presents may have been opened but the festivities are far from over. If you’re looking for the best champagne alternative for new year’s, why not try English wine? Whether you’re having a quiet night in or a gathering with friends and family, discover the best sparkling wine for your New Year’s Eve celebrations here.
