Things to Do AND SEE Near Benchwood House: THE High Weald & East SusSEX

Discover the best special events near Benchwood House in the High Weald and surrounding East Sussex. From lively food and drink festivals to cultural celebrations, music events, historic fairs, and more, each month brings something unique to enjoy. Use this guide to plan your visit and catch the highlights of 2026.

 TIPS TO PLAN YOUR VISIT 

Book ahead: Restaurants, vineyard experiences, and craft workshops often require advance reservations — plan early around the event dates.

Mix and match: Combine events with seaside walks (Camber Sands), historic Rye visits or vineyard tours for a richer stay.

Check official pages: Exact event details (times, tickets, and participating venues) are usually updated closer to the date via each festival’s official site.

THURSDAY 12 – SUNDAY 22 FEBRUARY 

SOUTH DOWNS DARK SKIES FESTIVAL 

South Downs National Park - variable locations including Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve

A unique seasonal celebration of astronomy and nocturnal wonder with guided stargazing, talks and night walks. Discover more here.  And check out the link for Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve (TN35 5DR) here. 

FRIDAY 13 – TUESDAY 17 FEBRUARY 

HASTINGS FAT TUESDAY

Hastings Old Town TN34 1PH (5 miles / 15 minute drive)

Join the Mardi Gras-style parade and enjoy live music, street performances, and a vibrant atmosphere in Hastings Old Town. Discover more here.  

SATURDAY 21 FEBRUARY – SUNDAY 1 MARCH

RYE BAY SCALLOP WEEK 

Rye East Sussex (6.8 miles / 13 min drive)
 

Celebrate the season’s freshest scallops with delicious menus, cooking demos, and foodie events in the historic town of Rye, perfect for foodies planning a late-winter getaway. Discover more here.

SATURDAY 26 FEBRUARY – SATURDAY 7 MARCH

THE HASTINGS INTERNATIONAL PIANO COMPETITION

The White Rock Theatre TN34 1JX (5.6 miles / 14 min drive)

An internationally-renowned, world-class competition for young concert pianists from around the world. It takes place in Hastings every two years. Discover more here. 

SATURDAY 21 MARCH – SUNDAY 12 APRIL 

EASTER EGG HUNT AT BODIAM CASTLE

Bodiam, Robertsbridge TN32 5UA (10.8 miles / 25 minute drive)

Hop into history with a fun-filled Easter egg hunt at the iconic Bodiam Castle. Follow a family-friendly trail inspired by the cheeky castle ducks, explore the medieval grounds, solve clues, and discover hidden treats — a perfect festive day out for all ages. Discover more here.  

FROM APRIL

COASTAL CULTURAL TRAIL - 3 AWARD WINNING GALLERIES, 18 MILES OF COASTLINE

Eastbourne; Bexhill-On-Sea; Hastings

Embark on a journey along East Sussex’s stunning coastline, where history, art, and nature meet. From charming fishing villages and historic harbours to vibrant galleries and hidden beaches, the Coastal Cultural Trail invites you to explore the region’s rich heritage and creative spirit. 

Stroll, cycle, or drive the route at your own pace, uncovering local craft shops, fascinating museums, and panoramic sea views at every turn. Perfect for a day trip or a leisurely weekend adventure!   Discover more here.

FRIDAY 1 – MONDAY 4 MAY 

JACK IN THE GREEN FESTIVAL (main parade typically on Bank Holiday Monday)

Hastings Old Town TN34 1PH (5 miles / 15 minute drive)

Join one of England’s most colourful May Day traditions with a lively folk celebration with Morris dancing, a grand leafy procession, music, and more. Discover more here.   

SATURDAY 16 MAY 

HASTINGS REGATTA 

Carlisle Parade, Hastings, TN34 1JG (5.4 miles / 12 minute drive)

A thrilling coastal rowing event held on the stunning Hastings Beach.

This regatta is part of the prestigious CARA (Coastal Amateur Rowing Association) season and showcases some of the best rowing talent along the coast. Whether you’re a rowing enthusiast or just looking for a fantastic community event, there’s something for everyone. Please add to your calendar for 2026 website updates. Discover more here.   

SATURDAY 23 MAY

BATTLE MEDIEVAL FAYRE 

Abbey Green, Battle, EAST SUSSEX, TN33 0AE (8.8 miles / 21 minute drive)

Step back in time at the Battle Medieval Fayre, where the historic town comes alive with knights, medieval crafts, period entertainment, and traditional food. Set against the backdrop of Battle’s rich history, this atmospheric day offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval life for visitors of all ages. Please add to your calendar for 2026 website updates. Discover more here. 

SATURDAY 20 - SUNDAY 21 JUNE 

HASTINGS COMIC CON

White Rock Theatre TN34 1JX (5.6 miles / 13 minute drive)

A two‑day celebration of comics, cosplay and pop culture returning to Hastings’ White Rock in June. Meet writers and illustrators, enjoy panels, workshops, retro gaming and cosplay, browse traders and take part in fan activities — a fun and creative weekend for geeks and families alike. Discover more here.

SUNDAY 21 – MONDAY 29 JUNE

ENGLISH WINE WEEK 

Various locations
 

Celebrate English wines with vineyard tours, tastings, food pairings and events at Sussex wine producers — ideal for gastronomy and wine lovers. Please visit WineGB’s website here, to add the event to your calendar when the schedule will be announced later on this year. 

FRIDAY 26 JUNE 

MEET THE EXPERT – JAMES MARTIN   

Jempsons’ Superstore Peasmarsh (near Rye) TN31 6YD (10.6 miles / 21 min drive)

Enjoy an hour of cooking and banter with the world renowned chef and TV personality James Martin. Discover more here. 

THURSDAY 2 – SATURDAY 5 JULY 

HASTINGS BEER AND MUSIC FESTIVAL

The Oval Falaise Road Hastings TN34 1EU (5.8 miles / 15 min drive)

Enjoy a lively celebration of local ales, ciders and live music at this much-loved charity festival in Hastings. With a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and a great line-up of bands, international DJ superstars, it’s the perfect summer event for beer lovers and music fans alike with all profits re-invested into the community. Discover more here.  

SATURDAY 18 – SUNDAY 19 JULY

HASTINGS PIRATE DAY

Hastings Seafront and Old Town TN34 (5 miles / 15 minute drive)

Ahoy! Join the fun as Hastings Old Town transforms into a swashbuckling celebration of the town’s rich maritime, and smuggling heritage seafaring past. 

Expect costumed pirates, street entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a lively atmosphere. Alongside the festivities, enjoy local food stalls, seaside favourites, and harbour-side refreshments, making this colourful event a feast for all the senses. Please add to your calendar for 2026 website updates. Discover more here.  

SATURDAY 8 AUGUST 

RYE PIRATES AND SMUGGLERS DAY 

Rye East Sussex TN31 7HE (6.8 miles / 13 minute drive)

Step back in time and join the fun at Rye’s swashbuckling festival! With a pirate and smugglers procession, to Smugglers Market, best dressed pirate competitions, interactive games, street performances, and family-friendly activities, this event brings the town’s historic smuggling past to life in a lively, unforgettable day. Discover more here. 

SATURDAY 1 – MONDAY  10 AUGUST 

HASTINGS 62nd OLD TOWN CARNIVAL WEEK

Hastings Old Town TN34 1PH (5 miles / 15 minute drive)

Celebrate over six decades of seaside tradition during Hastings Old Town Carnival Week. This much-loved festival honours the town’s rich heritage with a vibrant carnival procession, historic streets alive with music and events, and a warm community spirit that has been passed down through generations. Please add to your calendar for 2026 website updates. Discover more here.  

THURSDAY 27 - MONDAY 31 AUGUST 

RYE INTERNATIONAL JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVAL
Rye, East Sussex TN31 7HF - various venues (6.8 miles / 13 minute drive)

Soak up the sounds of world-class jazz, blues and soul as Rye’s historic streets and venues come alive with music. This popular summer festival blends outstanding live performances with the charm of one of East Sussex’s most atmospheric towns, creating an unforgettable cultural weekend. Please add to your calendar for 2026 website updates. Discover more here.  

SATURDAY 12 - SUNDAY 20 SEPTEMBER

HIGH WEALD WALKING FESTIVAL 2026

Discover the beauty of the High Weald during this popular walking festival, featuring guided walks through ancient woodland, rolling countryside, and historic villages. With routes for all abilities, it’s a wonderful way to explore one of England’s most distinctive landscapes at a relaxed pace. Please sign up to their mailing list here for updates here.  

SATURDAY 12 SEPTEMBER 

RYE ARTS FESTIVAL (55TH YEAR) 2026

Rye East Sussex – various venues TN31 7LE (6.8 miles / 13 min drive)

Celebrate the 55th year of the Rye Arts Festival, with a rich programme of classical music, theatre, talks and exhibitions. Set within the historic town of Rye, this landmark cultural event brings world-class performances to atmospheric venues and ancient streets. Please add to your calendar for 2026 website updates. Discover more here.

SATURDAY 19 SEPTEMBER 

HASTINGS SEAFOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL

The Stade Open Space in Hastings Old Town TN34 3DW (4.8 miles / 12 minute drive)

A must-visit for food lovers, this vibrant seaside festival celebrates Hastings’ fishing heritage with the finest local seafood, complemented by wines and ciders from Sussex vineyards and producers. Watch live cooking demonstrations from expert chefs, enjoy tastings, and soak up the lively atmosphere along the Stade for a truly indulgent early autumn experience. Please add to your calendar for 2026 website updates. Discover more here.