The above What's On months will only be linked when they are active.
MAY WHAT'S ON IN EAST SUSSEX
Ancient Crafts Festival - Michelham Priory
5th May & 6th May 2013. 10:30am - 5pm
Learn about the skills used in everyday life in times past. Demonstrations, hands-on activities and living history displays indoor and out.See how ancient boats were made, try your hand at making a pot or tile. Try some food cooked on our hearth and have a go at weaving or woodworking. Usual admissions apply and include all activities. Website
Address: Michelham Priory, Upper Dicker, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 3QS. 01323 844224
Early May Bank Holiday 'Steam Up' - Kent & East Sussex Railway
4th May to 6th May
The Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterton are planning a fantastic bank holiday weekend when visitors can enjoy a good old @Steam Up' each day between 4th & 6th May 2013.
A varied timetable will afford plenty of opportunities to travels behind several locomotives between Tenterden and Bodiam as well as time to admire the beautifully restores rolling stock kept in tip top condition. Purchase tickets online or Tel: 01580 765155
Postman Pat Mini Show at Drusillas
Mon 6th May 2013
Postman Pat will take a well-earned break from delivering the post in Greendale to make a special appearance at Drusillas. Enjoy the high energy show as Postman Pat bakes a cake for Jess’ birthday, with the help of the audience. There will also be the opportunity to see the friendly country postman at intervals throughout the day.
Address:
Drusillas Park, Alfriston, East Sussex BN26 5QS. T: 01323 874100 | Email | Website.
Southern at War Weekend - The Bluebell Railway
11th & 12th May
Turning back the clock to the days of the Second World War. We have many different events taking place at each of our stations and we are delighted to announce that on each day there will be a Spitfire flypast at Horsted Keynes Station. Special events include:Frequent steam train service, Military vehicle displays, Concert party shows, Afternoon band concerts,The 23rd Sussex Home Guard display, Wartime food stalls, Visiting Great Western Railway locomotive number 3205 from the South Devon Railway, Jive Dancing,Wartime Cinema and much more. Website
National Mills Weekend - Michelham Priory
11th May & 12th May 10:30am - 5pm
An annual festival of our milling heritage. You will be able to see Michelham Priory’s watermill working and get a real sense of what is was like to work in a mill. Traditional entertainment from Morris dancers. Website
Address: Michelham Priory, Upper Dicker, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 3QS. 01323 844224
Watercolour Exhibition - Borde Hill Garden
13 May 2013 - 19 May 2013
Watercolour exhibition by James Foot displayed in the unique Africa Glass house.
Tel: 01444 450326 |Website
Address: Borde Hill Garden, Balcombe Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH16 1XP
Twilight Tour - Lewes Castle
17th may 7:30pm till 9:30pm
A rare chance to enjoy a twilight tour of the castle from motte to motte. Expert guide John Bleach will take you on a voyage of discovery throught the castle grounds taking in Romans, Anglo Saxons, Normans and the Battle of Lewes. The tour, which includes Brack Mount, normally closed to the public, will finish at the top of the castle keep as the sun sets behind the Downs. Meet: Castle Gate, 7.30 pm.Cost: £8.00 on the night. Booking is essential. Website
Contact: Barbican House Museum, 169, High Street, Lewes, BN7 1YE. Tel: 01273 486290
Open evening Museum at night - The Observatory Science Centre
17th May (8pm – 12.30am)
Tel: 01323 832731 | Website
The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 1RN.
Themed evening special Cheese & wine evening for Culture 24 Museum at Night18th May (7.30pm – 12midnight)
Join us for a cheese and wine supper to help celebrate the Culture 24 'Museums at Night' initiative. This evening aims to be both informal and informative. It includes a guest speaker and an opportunity to look though The Centre's historic telescopes (weather permitting). If the weather is unsuitable, the evening will go ahead regardless and a comprehensive tour of the telescopes will replace viewing. Alongside the staff are members of a local astronomical society who are also there to help answer any questions you may have. Tel: 01323 832731 | Website
The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 1RN.
1940s Weekend - Kent & East Sussex Railway
Sat 18th & Sun 19th May
Re-live the 40s lifestyle!. Music, singing and dancing from the era, a 1940s street scene, military and civilian vehicles and displays in the skies above the Railway, courtesy of the 'Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar'. Sat 18th Hurrican 1 AE977 & Sunday 19th The Spirit of Kent Spitfire. Flying is subject to weather and serviceability.Tel: 01580 765155 www.kesr.org.uk
Camber Castle Wildlife and History
Sat 18 May 2013 @ 13:00
A chance to go inside Camber Castle and visit the birdwatching hide at Castle Water to see some wetland birds. Meet at Brede Lock, 1 – 4pm. Donations appreciated. Website
Bodiam Military - Bodiam Castle (National Trust) - Nr Robertsbridge
Saturday 18th May 2013 11am - 4pm
Come and celebrate Armed Forces Day with the Bodiam militia. Learn about medieval armour and fighting techniques and find out if you have what it takes to be a medieval knight or soldier of fortune like the castle founder, Sir Edward Dallingridge. Normal Admission Charges Apply.
Tel: 01580 830196| Website
Address: Bodiam Castle, Near Robertsbridge, East Sussex, TN32 5UA.
Bumble Bee Baby and Children's Nearly New Sale - Eastbourne
Saturday 18th May 10:00am till 12:00pm
Pick up a bargain! FREE ENTRY with plenty of space for buggies/wheelchairs. We have homemade cakes in our refreshment area and you can sit and eat while your children have fun in our "kiddie corner". For more information or to book a table, contact info@bumblebeebabes.co.uk
Willingdon Community School, Broad Road, Willingdon, Eastbourne east sussex BN20 9QX
Rolls Royce & Invicta Car Clubs - Michelham Priory
19th May 10:30am - 5pm
The Rolls Royce and Invicta Car Clubs will be paying Michelham Priory a visit in their vintage vehicles. Usual admissions apply. Website
Address: Michelham Priory, Upper Dicker, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 3QS. 01323 844224
Classic Cars on Parade - Newhaven Fort
Sunday 19th May
A multi-marque display of classic cars across the decades, courtesy of the Southern Classics Society. Newhaven Fort, Fort Road, Newhaven, East Sussex. Tel: 01273 517622 | Website
Battle of Lewes Day - Lewes Castle
19th May 11am - 4:30pm
Come help us celebrate the anniversary of the Battle of Lewes. Explore the evidence for what happened in the town in 1264. Lots of things to do and see including underwater robots, bone identification, medieval technology and armour. Bring the whole family. All events and activities included with price of castle admission. Website
Contact: Barbican House Museum, 169, High Street, Lewes, BN7 1YE. Tel: 01273 486290,
Sneaky Smugglers Trail - Bateman's (National Trust)
24th May to 3rd June 2013 11am - 5pm
Follow the secret trail of the Sussex/Kent smugglers and discover their hoards of treasure.
Booking Not Needed. Normal Admission Charges Apply
Address: Bateman's Lane, Burwash, TN19 7DS. Telephone: 01435 882302 | Website
‘Piggin it Up’ at Spring Barn Farm
25th May to 2nd June
Oink Oink! Spring Barn Farm is ‘Piggin it up’ this May Half Term. With squeals of extra activities from 25 May to 2 June, meet the stars of Spring Barn’s four little pigs story time, help the farmers feed our piglets, cheer on the winner of the Pig Racing and solve our piggy quest. Plus, zoom down giant sized indoor slides, bottle feed lambs, pat the animals and jump aboard the tractor and trailer ride. A short drive away from Brighton’s beaches, days out are packed full of excitement at Spring Barn Farm. During the day, refuel at Spring Barn Farm’s award winning cafe and restaurant. Or come for a few days and camp onsite.
For prices visit www.springbarnfarm.co.uk. Spring Barn Farm is located near Brighton at Kingston Road, Lewes, BN7 3ND. Open daily from 10 am. T: 01273 488450.
Wild Woodland Weekend Club - Swallowtail Hill Farm, Rye
Sat 25 May 2013 @ 10:00
A club for outdoor explorers aged 6-11 in a private woodland in Beckley. Led by Lucy from Rye Harbour Nature Reserve and Sarah from Swallowtail Hill Farm, who are both qualified Forest School leaders. The Wild Things get together on the last Saturday of every month; activities include den building, campfire cooking, woodland crafts and games.
Places are limited so booking is essential on sarah@swallowtailhill.com or 0845 337 2948.
Meet at Swallowtail Hill Farm 10am – 1pm, £10 per child. Website
Local half term school holidays - The Observatory Science Centre
Saturday 25th May - Sunday 2nd June
In addition to our hands-on exhibits there will be daily telescope tours and a Fantastic Science Show. These are included in your admission price. Telescope Tours usually at 12pm, 2pm & 4pm. Science Show usually at 11am, 1pm & 3pm We also have additional drop-in activities in the Zany Zone (small additional charge of £1 per child) and fantastic half day workshops for children.
Tel: 01323 832731 | Website
The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 1RN.
RXWildlife Festival - Rye
Saturday 25 May – Sunday 2 June
The 9th annual Wildlife Festival will be taking place during half term, with wildlife-themed activities in the RX area - from Hastings to Dungeness. With a marine roadshow, afternoon tea walk, minibeast hunt, landrover safari and much more, there should be something for everyone.
For further details see www.rx-wildlife.squarespace.com
Inland Waterways Association, Boat Rally - Bodiam Castle (National Trust)
25th to 27th May 2013 10:30am - 5pm
This late May Bank Holiday weekend, Bodiam will host the Inland Waterways Association National Trailboat Rally. Come and see the boats as they trail past and moor beside our Wharf Tea Room on the River Rother. Normal Admission Charges Apply. Tel: 01580 830196| Website
Address: Bodiam Castle, Near Robertsbridge, East Sussex, TN32 5UA.
Half Term hunt, Smugglers Search - Alfriston Clergy House (National Trust)
Sat 25th May to Sun 2nd June 2013 10:30am - 4:30pm
Embark on a fun smugglers search around the garden. Normal admission charges apply. Bookings not needed.
Address: The Tye, Alfriston, Polegate, East Sussex BN26 5TL .Tel: 01323 870001 | Website
All things tree - Sheffield Park & Garden (National Trust) - Uckfield.
25 May to 2 June 2013 10:30 am - 5pm
Family trails and activities throughout half term to discover the variety of trees in the garden and how to identify and age them. Try your hand at bark rubbing and leaf crafts.
Booking Not Needed. Normal Admission Charges Apply.
Address: Sheffield Park & Garden, East Sussex TN22 3QX. Tel: 01825 790231 | Website
British Eventing Horse Trials - Borde Hill Garden
26th May 2013 - 27th May 2013
An established annual event for novice and intermediate riders.Tel: 01444 450326 |Website
Address: Borde Hill Garden, Balcombe Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH16 1XP
Creepy Crawlies at Drusillas
Sun 26th May 2013
Creep down to Drusillas Park and meet some amazing mini monsters. The Discovery Centre, open between 11am and 4pm, will be swarming with weird insects, slimy molluscs and scary spiders and experts from the British Tarantula Society will be available to answer your questions.
Address:
Drusillas Park, Alfriston, East Sussex BN26 5QS. T: 01323 874100 | Email | Website.
Creepy Crawlies - Rye Harbour Park
Monday 27 May 14:00 – 15:30
Join the warden, Chris, in a hunt for spiders, bugs, beetles and other minibeasts hiding from view. Suitable for all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Meet at Lime Kiln Cottage Information Centre.Booking essential. Charge: £2 per child
Sussex Wildlife Trust Website | Wildrye website Tel: 01273 497561.
Zany Zone of Experiments - The Observatory Science Centre
27th May Time: 11am - 4pm.
Drop in activities in the Zany Zone. Cost: Normal admission price plus £1 extra per child.
Tel: 01323 832731 | Website
The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 1RN.
The Fat Controller at Drusillas
Mon 27th May 2013
The Fat Controller will be causing a locomotion, when he alights at the Park to take control of the efficient running of the railway. Make tracks to Tidmouth Hault and enjoy photo opportunities with Sir Topham Hatt himself.
Address:
Drusillas Park, Alfriston, East Sussex BN26 5QS. T: 01323 874100 | Email | Website.
Arthur's Dream Boat - De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill on Sea
Mon 27th & Tues 28th May 10:30am and 1:30pm
Based on the book by Polly Dunbar. It is the story about a little boy who has a dream.
Booking & Information Tel: 01424 229111 Website
De La Warr Pavilion, Marina, Bexhill On Sea, East Sussex, TN40 1DP
Knights Challenge for Kids - 1066 Battle of Hastings Abbey and Battlefield
Mon 27 – Fri 31 May 2013 10am-5pm
Have you got what it takes to be a Norman or Saxon knight? Come and grab your sword and shield and we'll put you through this fun challenge to test the skills you will need to complete your quest before you're knighted. Tel: 01424 775705/776787 | Website
1066 Battle of Hastings Abbey and Battlefield, at the south end of Battle High Street, TN33 0AD
Workshop Weather - The Observatory Science Centre
28th May 6+ yrs
Learn all about the weather through fun, interactive experiments and activities.
Tel: 01323 832731 | Website
The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 1RN.
Children’s Birdwatching - Rye Harbour Park
Tuesday 28 May 14:00 – 16:00
There should be thousands of birds to see on our main breeding pools, and we will be looking out for their chicks too! Suitable for accompanied children aged over 5.
Meet at Rye Harbour car park. Booking essential. Charge: £3 per child.
Sussex Wildlife Trust Website | Wildrye website Tel: 01273 497561.
Workshop Car Power - The Observatory Science Centre
29th May (6+ yrs am, 9yr+ pm)
Design and build your own model car and then see what can power it along - gravity, balloon, propeller or solar panels. Tel: 01323 832731 | Website
The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 1RN.
Captain Barnacles at Drusillas
Wed 29th May 2013
Captain Barnacles will make a splash when he visits Drusillas Park for a fun-filled adventure. Sailing into uncharted waters, the brave leader of the Octonauts will dive into the action and embark on a meet and greet mission appearing at various intervals throughout the day.
Address:
Drusillas Park, Alfriston, East Sussex BN26 5QS. T: 01323 874100 | Email | Website.
Mini beast Mayhem Day - Bateman's (National Trust)
Wed 29th may 2013 11am - 4pm
Discover more about the incredible bugs and beasties sharing our garden! Enjoy the minibeast craft activities, pond dipping or follow the minibeast trail around the garden and win a prize.
Booking Not Needed. Normal Admission Charges Apply
Address: Bateman's Lane, Burwash, TN19 7DS. Telephone: 01435 882302 | Website
Green Art - Seven Sisters Country Park, Seaford
Wednesday 29th May 10:30 –16:30
Stuck for things to do with the children over half term? Why not bring them down to the Seven Sisters for an amazing day in the woods. Arm yourself with a journey stick and follow our art trail around the woods. Make woodland monsters from clay, sculpt your own woodland creatures, build a mini raft, pond dip and paint with chalk and charcoal. Have a go at weaving, create your own woodland jewellery and make your own basket to carry woodland treasures home in; all from natural materials found in the woods. Lots to do. Please bring lunch because you will want to stay all day! Family event suitable for children aged 7-11 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the Pump Barn behind the Visitor Centre at Seven Sisters Country Park Exceat, nr Seaford. Drop in event – no booking necessary.Suggested donation of £3 per child to cover cost of materials. Sussex Wildlife Trust Website
Shrimping at Rye Harbour
Friday 31 May 10:00 – 11:30
Search the shallow sea for shrimps, crabs and flatfish. Please wear footwear and clothing suitable for paddling/wading in the sea. Suitable for accompanied children aged over 5.
Meet at Lime Kiln Cottage Information Centre. Booking essential. Charge: £2 per child.
Sussex Wildlife Trust Website | Wildrye website Tel: 01273 497561.
What's On: You can have a free listing for your special events on our What's On page, please email kidstodo@btinternet.com with a maximum of 50 words to include details, contacts & links. Please send by the 15th of the month for listings to be included in the following month.
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