2022 brings a host of new opportunities to explore and enjoy West Sussex. I’ve put together 10 new experiences, events and places to stay to add to your must-see agenda for the New Year – with everything from magical light trails to foraging for mushrooms, luxury stays to e-bike adventures you’ll find something for everyone here. So get your diaries out and start planning, which of these are you going to tick off this year?
Ignite at Nymans
11th February – 6th March, Haywards Heath
For the first time visitors to the stunning Nymans estate can enjoy an hour long discovery trail complete with fiery fish, blazing dragons and fleeting fairies. Enjoy being at one with mother nature whilst being blown away by this incredible, after-dark illuminated walk.
Gin School at Ashling Park
Launching February 2022, Near Chichester
Ashling Park is already well known for it’s vineyard tours and wine tasting within the Sussex region, but as of February 2022 visitors can also attend the wine estate’s gin school. Each session will include a 3 hour tasting and learning experience as well as producing 2 bottles of your very own gin recipe to take home! Prices £125 for one / £150 for two.
Eat, Bake and Stay at the Artisan Bakehouse
January, March & throughout 2022, Ashurst
The Artisan Bakehouse will be hosting a variety of specialist baking and chocolate making masterclasses throughout 2022. Events kick off with an Artisan Chocolate Making Masterclass on January 26th and a Weekend of Vienoisserie Enriched Doughs on the 5th and 6th of March. Visitors can also tuck into lunches and dinner in the bakehouse, or even stay over in one of their cosy rooms.
Pick Plants & Mushrooms with Author of a new Foraging Guide
April & May 2022 – Worthing
Learn to forage for your own lunch and discover seasonal produce on your doorstep with fungi forager extraordinaire Geoff Dann, who is running Spring and Coastal Foraging events at Mill Hill near Worthing. A foraged lunch is supplied, cooked by Geoff over a campfire. Dates currently available throughout April and May.
Medieval Kings and Queens at Arundel Castle
Jubilee Weekend June 2nd – 5th
Throughout the Jubilee Weekend Arundel Castle will be celebrating the key Medieval kings and queens who have been so important to the castle’s history. The Medieval Kings and Queens event is one of several celebrations taking place at the castle through the year including the Medieval Festival taking place over the Easter Bank Holiday. Perfect for history lovers of all ages!
Eroica Britannia at Goodwood
August 6th and & 7th
Relocating from the Peak District, Eroica Britannia takes place at Goodwood for its 2022 return. The world famous event invites cycling fans to polish off their bikes and get ready for an unforgettable weekend of family friendly fun, live music and delicious food and drink. Cycle as a family, an individual or with friends – or just join the festival fun. This is going to be one to remember!
E-Bike Itinerary across the South Downs
2022 sees the introduction of a new e-bike route, The Great Sussex Wine Tour, starting from Midhurst. The route can be enjoyed over a morning, full day or full weekend taking cyclists of all abilities through stunning countryside. Enjoy the gorgeous landscapes of the South Downs National Park on this unique self-guided wine trail incorporating three of the regions most welcoming vineyards.
Boutique Hotel at Leonardslee Gardens
OPEN NOW – Near Horsham
Known for it’s stunning gardens and vineyard, Leonardslee now offers boutique accommodation in 10 bespoke rooms each with their own unique décor and en-suite bathrooms. Nestled in the heart of West Sussex, the historic 19th-century Italianate style Leonardslee house is one of the most beautiful homes in the county. It sits on top of a valley with a panoramic view of the gardens and is set in a secluded, yet convenient location close to Gatwick airport and near Horsham.
The Pig Hotel South Downs
OPEN NOW – Madehurst
The Pig Hotel in the South Downs opened in 2021 in the pretty village of Madehurst in the heart of the South Downs. The hotel is made up of the main house with a selection of luxury rooms spread out between a higgledy-piggledy collection of traditional brick, flint and timber clad Sussex stable yard buildings. Together with Field and Garden Wagons, they provide a real range and variety of accommodation; all have been lovingly restored and nestle together around original courtyards – the feel is intimate, safe, and friendly. Check in here for food, drink, spa or stays in a divine, rustic location.
Chichester Year of Culture
March – October 2022
Chichester is celebrating the cultural and entertainment organisations within the district throughout 2022. There are multiple cultural milestones which will be celebrated, including Chichester Festival Theatre marking its 60th anniversary, Pallant House Gallery’s 40th, the Novium Museum’s 10th anniversary the Chichester International Film Festival celebrating its 30th anniversary and there will also be a celebration of the Chichester Canal, which will be 200 years old.
For more inspiration and ideas for days out and things to see in West Sussex please visit Experience West Sussex
