Magical Christmas experiences in Sussex
Whether you’re nine or 99, there’s no shortage of yuletide magic to be discovered in Sussex. Here’s our pick of festive experiences to get you into the spirit of Christmas.
Discover the magical Glow Wild Lantern Trail at Wakehurst Place
Dates: 24th November 2022 to 1st January 2023
Wrap up warm and take a wintry walk around this Glow Wild Lantern Trail – a celebration of colour in nature.
Wander through a mystical forest trail and discover fairy-tale toadstools and glowing reindeer, as miniature stars glisten from tree branches.
Be in awe at a sky-scraping Christmas tree, bejewelled in sparkling lights. Spot the shimmering heron, perched on the moon-lit water.
Please note there is limited capacity with timed entry slots. Make sure you plan ahead to secure the date and time of your choice. Under 4s go free.
Wakehurst Place Glow Wild Lantern Trail
Go Ice Skating at the Royal Pavilion, Brighton
Dates: 29th October 2022 to 8th January 2023
Take to the ice for a night of family run or romantic date night at this pop-up real ice rink in central Brighton.
Float around the rink with the multicoloured lights of the Royal Pavilion twinkling in the background. Feeling nippy? You can sip on mulled wine and hot chocolate with marshmallows at the Rinkside Bar.
Skating open daily 9.30am to 9.30pm. Tickets must be booked in advance.
Ice Skating at the Royal Pavilion
Stroll through a twinkling winter wonderland at Leonardslee Gardens
Dates: 24th to 27th and 30th November, 1st to 4th December, 7th to 21st December 2022
Follow a fairytale woodland path through the landscaped Grade I listed gardens at Leonardslee. Marvel at spellbinding illuminations, projections, and interactive displays. Spot magenta water lilies, glowing on the lake, and the silvery moon, floating majestically over Leonardslee.
Afterwards, there’s Christmas food and drink to warm your cockles, a thrilling funfair to discover, and a myriad of festive Christmas Market stalls.
Don't miss out! Book your tickets online now.
Leonardslee Illuminated
Enjoy a spectacular illuminated train ride on the Bluebell Railway
Selected dates until 8th January 2023
Glide through the night-time Sussex countryside on a magical steam train, covered by thousands of colourful lights.
Catch a glimpse of festive scenes hidden amongst the trees, and enjoy a colourful light show, orchestrated with atmospheric music and narration.
Advanced booking essential.
Steamlights Bluebell Railway
Hear spellbinding folklore at Bodiam Castle
Dates: 4th, 10th, 17th and 22nd December 2022
Be enchanted by magical tales of dragons, knights, and castles this Christmas.
Festive stories are regaled in a cosy, grotto-style tower room, burrowed away within this romantic 14th century castle.
The storytelling sessions are 15 to 20 minutes in length – perfect for small children.
No booking required. Free event.
Bodiam Castle Christmas Storytelling
