In and around East Sussex

Scotney Castle Christmas mansion entrance hall

The home of a famous author, fairytale castles and more await you in and around East Sussex

Places to visit

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Family fun during the festive market

Christmas markets and festive food in Kent 

Tuck into delicious Christmas fare at our special places in Kent this year. From local markets to shops packed full with festive goodies, to delicious seasonal lunches in our cosy cafes, we're serving up a treat this Christmas.

Tuck into Christmas

What's coming up for Christmas

The library at Scotney looking very atmospheric with low lighting, a giant Christmas tree, children's traditional Victorian toys scattered over the floor and a fire glowing in the grate

Christmas in and around East Sussex 

From mystical castles, to magical fairy tales and scrumptious treats and eats, our places in and around East Sussex are ready and raring for Christmas this year.

Father Christmas walking towards Bodiam Castle

Father Christmas at Bodiam Castle 

Father Christmas is taking time out of his busy December schedule to visit Bodiam Castle, so book your spot to visit him before he flies back to the North Pole.

Winter photographic exhibitions

The pink brick of the tower glows brightly in the autumn at Sissinghurst Castle Garden

Sissinghurst Photographic Award  

Read on to find out more about the first Sissinghurst photographic award in partnership with International Garden Photographer of the Year.

Hedgehog in Autumn leaves

The British Wildlife Photography Awards exhibition at Bodiam Castle 

Marking the 10th anniversary of the BWPA, this exhibition will combine the breath-taking beauty of British wildlife with the picturesque and romantic ancient monument that is Bodiam Castle. Saturday 5 October 2019– Sunday 5 January 2020.

Winter walking on the Batemans estate

Winter walks in and around East Sussex 

From winter wildlife at Scotney Castle to reflections in the chilly moat at Bodiam Castle, there's plenty of reason to get out and about this winter. Take a look at our winter walks in and around East Sussex.

Choose your winter trail

Get involved

Christiane Lohr drawing

What's it like as a volunteer? 

Henry Middleton helps us care for extraordinary objects in unusual circumstances. A dedicated member of Scotney's Housekeeping Manual Group, he's helped create over 20,000 hand-drawn records of the Castle's unique collection.

A volunteer room guide talks to a visitor at Sissinghurst Castle Garden

Find a volunteering role 

This year, instead of giving something up, why not take up something new that makes you happy? From driving buggies to room guiding, we need special people to bring our special places to life in 2019.

A group of people enjoying a day out

Join a supporter group 

Members of our National Trust supporter groups in Sussex help fund raise for places like Nymans and Sheffield Park - they also get together for days out and talks and tours or volunteer at their local place.