Skip to content
Skip to content

Earl's Extravagant Party

Honouring 130 years of cricketing heritage with a joyful day of festivities inspired by the 3rd Earl of Sheffield.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Join us for a fun filled day out as we celebrate the legacy of Henry North Holroyd, the 3rd Earl of Sheffield. Known for his love of cricket, hospitality, and lively gatherings, the Earl turned Sheffield Park into a place of connection and enjoyment. This year marks 130 years since the famous 1896 Australian cricket match hosted on the estate, and the Earl's Extravagant Party brings that spirit back to life with a mix of sport, music, food, and family fun, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the gardens.

What’s on:

- Anniversary cricket match up at the Cricket Pitch

- Water rockets and solar viewing by Seven Sisters Astronomy Group

- Live music and performances throughout the day

- History walks around the garden

- Family games and crafts

- Pop-up museums by the Sussex Cricket Museum and Bluebell Railway Museum and recent archaeological finds displays by National Trust Archaeologist.

- Bang’s Food Truck serving refreshments, bakes and cakes

Live Music and Performance Highlights:

11:30-12:30 – East Grinstead Concert Band

12:45-1:15 – Turning Pointe Dance School Performances

1:30-2:30 – The Management (rock & blues classics)

3:00- 4:00 – Sheraton Brown (folk, Americana & more)

Pack a picnic (or treat yourself!), bring your friends, and enjoy a brilliant summer day out—just as the Earl would have done!

This event is free but normal admission fees apply.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Booking details

Call 01825 790231

Suitability

Suitable for all ages.

Meeting point

The main event will be based at the main lawn, with the anniversary cricket match taking place up at the Cricket Pitch.

What to bring and wear

Please wear weather appropriate clothing.

Accessibility

The majority of garden is accessible, there are some slopes and paths made of a non-gravel surface. The Coach House Café is fully accessible.

Contact info

Sheffield Park and Garden

Upcoming events

Alice in Wonderland Trail 

Step into the magical world of Alice in Wonderland and explore our Grade I listed garden as its transforms into a trail of imagination, themed games and active play.

Event summary

on
21 May to 7 Jun 2026
at 10:00 to 17:00+ 17 other dates or times

National Collection of Ghent Azalea Walk with Head Gardener Jodie Hilton 

Join Head Gardener Jodie and immerse yourself in the joyous beauty of these magnificent seasonal blooms. Learn about their history, conservation and importance to Sheffield Park and Garden.

Event summary

on
21 May 2026
at 10:30 to 12:00

Spring Foraging Workshop with Megan Howlett 

Join professional forager Megan Howlett on an spring exploration through the gardens, learning more about the seasonal delights on offer.

Event summary

on
26 May 2026
at 13:00 to 16:00

Wonderland Inspired Flamingo Pottery Painting 

We've taken inspiration from our Alice in Wonderland Trail. Join us through the Welcome Building and paint your very own flamingo planter!

Event summary

on
27 May 2026
at 11:00 to 15:30