Spotlight - The Sussex Events Guide: May 2026
- Hannah Room
- 3 hours ago
- 4 min read
The Greenaway Foundation Ladies Day
Tuesday 26th May, 5 pm
The Greenaway Foundation Ladies Day horse racing event at Lingfield Park Racecourse is a spectacular celebration of elegance and exhilaration! Immerse yourself in the heart-pounding excitement of horse racing, where every race brings a rush of fun and anticipation. Indulge in a delectable two-course dinner while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Mark your calendar for an unforgettable day. Secure your spot now for £95 per person, including parking, race card, and private bar. Every penny raised goes to helping child poverty across Sussex, Surrey and Kent.
Exclusive Evening at High Beeches Garden for St Catherine’s Hospice
Tuesday 12 May from 6 pm
With 27 acres of woodland, water gardens, and a collection of rare, exotic and award-winning plants, High Beeches Garden is one of Sussex's finest gardens.
Come and explore this hidden gem in the High Weald of West Sussex at this exclusive evening hosted by the New Horizons Appeal Committee. Bring a picnic, enjoy the gardens, and help raise vital funds for St Catherine’s Hospice. Entry is £15, which includes a glass of fizz.
Book your place today: www.stch.org.uk/high-beeches
Alice in Wonderland trail at Sheffield Park and Garden
Saturday 2nd May to Sunday 7th June
Step into the magical world of Alice in Wonderland at Sheffield Park and Garden for an enchanting trail through the garden, filled with characters and games inspired by Lewis Carroll’s classic tale.
Follow the white rabbit as he guides you along the trail and discover family activities such as solving the Cheshire Cat’s puzzles to trying your hand at flamingo croquet. Each stop encourages children to think, play and explore together. The trail is free with normal admission.
To find out more, visit: nationaltrust.org.uk/sheffieldpark
Scotney Castle
Various Dates in May
This May, escape into nature at this stunning property and rolling parkland in Kent.
Discover the secrets of a grade-1 ruined castle on a guided tour, have fun with the family on a dragonfly-themed half-term trail (23-31 May), or get your bells, hankies and sticks at the ready with traditional Morris dancing. Created by local charity Hospice in the Weald,
Scotney will also host a beautiful installation of handcrafted daisies in the garden (2-17 May), each dedicated in memory of someone special. Car park booking is essential.
Book your visit today at: nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle.
Half Term at Sharnfold Farm
Saturday 23rd to Sunday 31st May
This May Half Term, Sharnfold Farm offers the perfect family day out with its brand-new Woodland Animal Adventure. Little ones can lose themselves in the Mini Maze, following a charming interactive trail where they’ll hop, sneak and explore their way through the trees. Designed to spark curiosity and imagination, it’s a delightful blend of play and nature.
Alongside the adventure, visitors can enjoy much-loved farmyard favourites and unwind at the new Lake Lookout, ideal for feeding fish and spotting wildlife.
Tickets are £8.45 per person when booked online, with under 2s and members visit for free.
Plant Hunters: Tales & Trails at Hever Castle
Saturday 23rd to Sunday 31st May
Hever Castle brings alive the thrilling world of historic plant explorers with ‘Plant Hunters: Tales & Trails’. Wander the gardens following the Plant Hunters Trail, uncovering botanical treasures and learning fascinating facts about the daring adventurers who searched the globe for rare species. Families can enjoy ‘Tales of the Plant Hunters’ storytelling on the Half Moon Lawn, packed with fun and imagination. There’s even face painting for little explorers. It’s a delightful blend of nature, history and playful discovery set against the castle’s beautiful late‑spring backdrop. The event is included with admission.
Lindfield Village Day
Saturday 30th May
Lindfield Village Day is a celebration for the community and a fundraiser for the King Edward Hall. Celebrating its 48th year in 2026, the event expects to include the following: over 150+ stalls on the Common, the children’s dog show, the newly named “LIVE HUB” area for the stage, food & drinks and sponsor stalls, an arena for events/games during the afternoon, and the procession down the High Street – featuring hundreds of villagers making their way to the Common. Free entry!
Barefoot Opera presents La Giuditta
Thursday 11th June, 8 pm
Barefoot Opera presents La Giuditta by Alessandro Scarlatti. The story of a besieged city, in tribute to all besieged cities – don't miss the opportunity to see Barefoot Opera’s fully staged version of Scarlatti's dramatic 1690 oratorio, La Giuditta – a timeless story with stark contemporary relevance.
A cast of talented young professional singers includes Ella Joy, Toshi Ogita and Ralph Thomas Williams. Music Director Laurence Panter has realised the score for keyboard and bass clarinet.
Tickets £25:
St John’s Church Hall, Brittany Road, St Leonards
South East Open Studios
Friday 5th to Sunday 21st June
South East Open Studios marks its 30th anniversary in 2026, celebrating three decades of supporting visual arts across Kent. This much-loved event invites visitors into artists’ studios to explore work ranging from ceramics and textiles to painting and jewellery, with opportunities to buy or commission pieces. More than an exhibition, it offers a chance to meet artists, see techniques in action and gain insight into creative processes.
A preview exhibition at West End House Gallery (1st-25th May) launches the programme. With guides, trails and online tools, SEOS makes discovering the South-East's vibrant art scene accessible and inspiring for all.
To find out more, visit: www.seos-art.org
Follow @seopenstudios on Instagram, Facebook and Threads
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