Christmas in and around West Sussex

All across Sussex we are bringing festive traditions to life at our country houses, atmospheric gardens and wintery countryside. Share in the festive spirit as we bring in boughs of winter greenery and make handmade decorations. The tree at Standen this Christmas is decorated by contemporary designers Timorous Beasties. The house at Petworth is dressed with displays from around the continent. There are outdoor trails at Sheffield Park and a new exhibition of vintage nursery rhymes illustrations at Nymans. Plus book now for the woodland Father Christmas at Standen.

A prototype of the set design for Oak Hall at Christmas

Petworth 

Visit Petworth and journey on a Grand Tour Christmas, inspired by the historic tradition of travelling Europe. See six rooms in the house dressed for Christmas and representing the countries that travellers would have seen on their journey through the continent.

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Timorous Beasties The Fruit Looters Wallpaper

The Winter Tree at Standen 

Timorous Beasties are the radical designers of this years’ Winter Tree at Standen. They're notorious for making cult classics from traditional design patterns such as damask, Toile de Jouy and Chintz. From 25 November 2017 to Tuesday 2 January 2018.

Find out about Timorous Beasties at Standen
The dining room at Standen dressed for Christmas

Standen House and Garden 

Make some treasured memories this Christmas at Standen as we bring you traditions, both old and new. Enjoy our tree, designed by Timorous Beasties this Christmas, in the courtyard before visiting the decorated house with all the enchantment of a Beale family Christmas through the decades.

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Illustration from 'Sing a Song for Sixpence'

Nymans 

Take a festive walk through the winter garden to the gallery, where this Christmas you'll find a nostalgic exhibition of vintage artwork from children's literature.

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Frosty trees by the bridge at Sheffield Park Sussex

Sheffield Park and Garden 

Escape the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season with a visit to Sheffield Park and Garden, East Sussex, where tradition, nature and the outdoors are the focus for winter. Spend time with friends and family in a relaxing atmosphere.

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Man dressed as Victorian butler hanging wreath on front door

Uppark 

Lady Fetherstonhaugh has just hosted one of her famous Christmas parties. Peak into the dining room to witness the celebrations, before coming 'below stairs' to find out how the servants are celebrating. You’ll discover life-size paper mannequins and plenty of sparkle, whilst outside, our family trail takes kids on an adventure into the world of Victorian festive foods. 2 – 31 December, trail £2.

A Victorian servants' Christmas
Alfriston Clergy House East Sussex Christmas wreath on front door

Alfriston Clergy House 

The Clergy House and the village of Alfriston are a wonderful place to visit at Christmas time. A perfect place to enjoy a winter walk along the banks of the Cuckmere, shop for gifts, or enjoy a cream tea or warming drink in front of an open fire.

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Christmas wreath

South Downs 

From visiting Father Christmas, to family fun and wreath making, bracing walks to blow away the cobwebs, and a seasonally decorated medieval hall house, there's something festive for everyone on the South Downs.

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