Harvest Highlights: Celebrating the Season in East Sussex
As the days grow shorter and the air becomes crisper, East Sussex comes alive with the vibrant colors and rich flavors of the harvest season. Autumn is a time of abundance, with local farms, markets, and festivals celebrating the best of the region’s produce. Whether you’re a food lover, a fan of local traditions, or simply looking to enjoy the season’s bounty, there’s no better place to experience the magic of the harvest than in East Sussex. Here’s your guide to the best harvest highlights in the area.
1. Hailsham Harvest Festival
Location: Hailsham
One of the most anticipated events of the season, the Hailsham Harvest Festival is a celebration of the town’s agricultural heritage and community spirit. Held annually in late September, this festival offers a fun-filled day for the whole family. The town square comes alive with food stalls selling locally produced goods, live music, craft markets, and traditional harvest-themed activities. From apple pressing demonstrations to scarecrow making, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
2. Lewes Farmers' Market
Location: Lewes
Lewes Farmers' Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to sample the best of East Sussex’s seasonal produce. Held on the first and third Saturday of each month, this market is a foodie’s paradise. In autumn, the market is brimming with freshly harvested fruits and vegetables, artisanal cheeses, homemade preserves, and much more. It’s the perfect place to pick up some local treats to enjoy during your stay or to take home as a delicious reminder of your time in East Sussex.
3. Pumpkin Picking at Sharnfold Farm
Location: Stone Cross, Near Eastbourne
Sharnfold Farm is the place to be for all things pumpkin-related this autumn. Bring the family for a day of pumpkin picking in the farm’s picturesque fields, where you can find pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. After you’ve selected your perfect pumpkins, visit the farm shop for a variety of seasonal produce, including fresh apples, homemade jams, and local honey. Sharnfold Farm also offers a delightful café where you can enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and a slice of pumpkin pie.
4. Michelham Priory’s Apple and Orchard Day
Location: Near Hailsham
Michelham Priory’s Apple and Orchard Day is a unique event that celebrates the region’s rich apple-growing tradition. Held in early October, this event offers a variety of apple-themed activities, including apple pressing demonstrations, orchard tours, and tastings of different apple varieties. The historic priory’s beautiful grounds provide a stunning backdrop for this celebration, making it a perfect day out for families and apple enthusiasts alike.
5. Eastbourne’s Seafront Markets
Location: Eastbourne
Eastbourne’s seafront markets offer a unique blend of local produce and coastal charm. Throughout the autumn months, the markets feature an array of stalls selling everything from fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables to homemade baked goods and local crafts. Stroll along the seafront, sample some local delicacies, and take in the crisp sea air as you explore the best that Eastbourne has to offer.
6. Exploring Local Vineyards
Location: Various Vineyards Across East Sussex
Autumn is also a wonderful time to explore the vineyards of East Sussex, where the grape harvest is in full swing. Vineyards like Rathfinny Estate, Albourne Estate, and Bolney Wine Estate offer tours and tastings that allow you to sample the fruits of the harvest. Learn about the winemaking process, enjoy a glass of wine overlooking the scenic vineyard landscapes, and perhaps even pick up a bottle or two to savor later.
7. Visit Local Farm Shops
Location: Various Locations Across East Sussex
For a true taste of the season, visit one of the many farm shops scattered throughout East Sussex. These shops are stocked with the freshest local produce, including apples, pears, squash, and root vegetables, as well as homemade jams, chutneys, and baked goods. Some of the best farm shops in the area include Middle Farm near Firle and Poppinghole Farm Shop near Robertsbridge. These shops are perfect for stocking up on supplies for a cosy night in at your lodge.
Autumn in East Sussex is a time to celebrate the harvest and the bounty of the land. Whether you’re picking pumpkins, exploring local markets, or tasting the fruits of the vineyard, there’s no shortage of seasonal delights to enjoy. Our luxury lodges at Golden Cross Holiday Park, Warren Wood Park, and Chestnut Meadow Country Park provide the perfect base for your autumn adventures. Book your stay with us and immerse yourself in the rich flavors and festive atmosphere of the harvest season in East Sussex.