There’s a quiet kind of luxury in an evening spent by the fire. The soft glow, the gentle crackle, the feeling that time has slowed just for you. But at The Butler Collection, we believe these moments deserve to be savoured with intention. This is our guide to curate the perfect fireside experience. From the warmth of crackling logs and ambient lighting to thoughtful touches like cosy textures. Indulgent treats and slow-living rituals – so you can transform a simple evening into something effortlessly memorable.
The Butler’s cosy home picks: For the ultimate fireside experience
From cosy living room log burners, to roaring open fireplaces and even outdoor fire pits. Our Collection features many homes perfectly equipped for staying in and getting cosy, this Autumn.
Coles House
The property is rich in period features. From tall sash windows and original fireplaces to ornate ceiling cornices and wide wooden floorboards. All carefully preserved to maintain its timeless appeal. At the same time, it’s been thoughtfully updated to offer all the modern comforts needed for a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
There are two living areas on the ground floor, one for more formal seating which features a cosy log burner and the other with a large piano and TV area.
Nestled in the serene countryside, this spacious property features five beautifully appointed bedrooms in the main house. Each adorned with stylish and comfortable furnishings.
On the ground floor, the entrance leads you onto both the formal living space with exposed beams and fully operational fireplace. The dining area, with space to seat 12 in total.
Several seating areas and a fire pit offer the perfect spaces from which to enjoy the Downland vista framed by mature, specimen trees and architectural planting. And with a westerly aspect, the sunsets are truly awe-inspiring.
During the cooler seasons, you can light the open fire, for which there is a log store; adding warmth and atmosphere to wintery evenings and suppers. But you may wish to simply unplug and curl up with a book, which won’t be difficult because there are many to choose from.
Wooden beams and exposed brick walls feature in the vast open plan living space which opens completely to the secluded garden edged with woodland. The peace and luxury of your surroundings will allow you and your party to fully recharge away from the hubbub of city life.
In the colder months, you can spill outside through three sets of bi-folding doors which seamlessly link the house to the decking for drinks and dining alfresco – and s’mores if you fancy them.
When you book a stay with The Butler Collection, your dedicated concierge manager on hand to take care of the finer details, your only job is focusing on creating unforgettable memories.
Fireplace and s’mores
Cosy up by the fire with our Fireplace & S’mores package, perfect for a relaxed evening in your holiday home. Hot chocolate, fluffy marshmallows, chocolate bars and classic Graham crackers are provided, along with snuggly blankets to keep you warm as you enjoy the comforting crackle of the fire.
(Please note, this experience is only available at select properties).
Pamper package
Unwind and indulge with our premium pamper package: where complete and utter relaxation is our top priority.
Choose between a manicure, pedicure or facial by experienced beauty therapists in the comfort of your own holiday home, before enjoying a beautifully presented grazing board accompanied by a bottle of sparkling wine.
Breakfast in bed
Start the day right with an indulgent breakfast in bed experience, featuring freshly baked pastries, seasonal fruit, and a bottle of award-winning Digby sparkling wine delivered straight to your door.
Private chef
Indulge in the ultimate luxury of a private chef experience, hosted in the comfort and privacy of your holiday home. Relax as our carefully selected chef creates a bespoke menu tailored to your tastes, before preparing and serving each course, transforming your evening into an unforgettable culinary journey, complete with impeccable service.
With the festive season fast-approaching, Sussex is slowly starting to transform into a winter wonderland. Whether it’s crisp walks along the seafront, cuddling up infront of a log fire in a cosy countryside pub, or ice skating infront of the Royal Pavilion in Brighton, there are no end of options when it comes to making the most of this magical time.
And with Christmas markets popping up across the region, offering warm drinks, tasty treats, seasonal entertainment, and gifts from local vendors, there truly is no better place to soak up the festive atmosphere.
Below, we’re highlighting the best Christmas markets in Sussex so that you can fully embrace the joy of the season on your next winter getaway – wherever you are in the county.
Featuring numerous stalls from local artisans, festive workshops, tasty street food, live music, a giant snow globe, a children’s funfair, and a Santa’s Grotto, a trip to the Ardingly Winter Fair is the perfect way to get into the festive spirit – and is one of the best known Christmas markets in Sussex on this list!
With stalls offering crafts, gifts and tasty treats, this is a great place to kickstart the festive season while enjoying the ambiance and cosy atmosphere of Arundel Museum.
The Swan Hotel’s inaugural Christmas Craft Fair promises to be a great place to stock up on your handmade and locally-sourced Christmas presents and decorations – from candles, to wreaths, to glass items and much more.
With over a decade of experience organising events across the South East, Sussex Christmas Markets has been creating festive markets since 2018. This year, head to The Brighton Racecourse to kick off your Christmas shopping, with over 80 handpicked local suppliers bringing seasonal cheer and unique gifts.
The Brighton Etsy Seller’s Team Christmas market is back, showcasing local designers, makers, and artists with a carefully curated selection of unique, high-quality gifts. Held at The Clarendon Centre on Saturday, 7th December 2024, it’s just a short walk from Brighton train station and free to enter—be sure to save the date, with more details to come soon.
The Butler says: While in the area, consider booking a slot at the Brighton Pavilion ice rink – a seasonal ice rink set up in the grounds of the breathtaking Pavilion. Book your ice skating session for after sunset for a spectacular backdrop featuring a lit-up Royal Pavilion, and make sure you treat yourself to a warm treat and Mulled Wine post-skate.
With the Christmas Light Switch On on Saturday 23rd November marking the start of the festive season, Cross Market and More takes place on Sunday 24th November for what’s set to be a weekend of festivities.
Between the 7th to the 15th December, head to East and North Street for Chichester Christmas Market, featuring a variety of foods, drinks, and Christmas gifts.
With over 100 independent stalls offering a wide range of festive products, this event is well worth a visit. Entry costs £1 for those 16 and over, with cash or card accepted at the door.
Head to Meads Street for your festive fix in Eastbourne. Expect a Christmas market, festive activities, street entertainers, a Santa’s Grotto, and a Christmas parade.
Christmas in Little Chelsea
Where: Little Chelsea, Grove Road & South Street, Eastbourne
Enjoy late-night shopping, a Christmas market, children’s rides, live entertainment, and delicious food in Little Chelsea. Gather your friends and family, and welcome the holiday season with this festive street party – one of the most community-focused Christmas markets in Sussex.
With over 50 independent stallholders and open studios, featuring a selection of gifts from local artisans, over a kilometre of twinkling fairy lights, mulled wine, delicious food, and a whole lot of festive cheer, this is up there as one of the cosiest Christmas markets in Sussex to enjoy this festive season.
Following the success of last year’s event, Pure Christmas Market is back and bigger than ever in 2024. Visitors can expect a whole range of festive stalls from talented artists and makers – and can even book on to craft workshops to try their hand at making their own gifts (for themselves, or for others!) and can book a place to attend a sound bath. Pre-booking on to these workshops is required – visit the link above to secure your place.
Horsham
Horsham Artists Christmas Market
Where: Horsham Town Centre
Date(s): 23rd & 24th November, 30th November & 1st December 2024
While finer details are yet to be announced, keep an eye on the website above for further information. Expect various stalls from local artisans, and tasty festive treats.
The inaugural Lewes Christmas Market will see a wide range of stallholders gather at the Royal Oak on Saturday 16th November. Get a head start on your Christmas shopping while enjoying a mulled wine, mince pie, and live music from a choir.
With a key focus on community, this year’s event will feature a stage full of entertainment, along with food and drink stalls. With further details yet to be confirmed, there aren’t currently any plans for gifts to be available for purchase – and instead, the Market Square will be transformed into a community hub.
Grittenham Barn Christmas Market
Where: Tillington, Petworth, West Sussex GU28 0PG
Date(s): Friday 24th & Saturday 25th November 2024
A Christmas Market in a rustic barn overlooking the South Downs is one of the most spectacular locations on this list. Head to Grittenham Barn to enjoy a range of market stalls, and tasty treats. Adult tickets cost £2.50 (children free of charge), and the event is being held in aid of The Sussex Snowdrop Trust. If it’s raining, wellies are advised to reach the barn from the car park.
With late night shopping and the Christmas lights turn-on taking place on Saturday 23rd November, extend the festivities into December with their Christmas in Rye event on the 7th.
Expect Santa’s Grotto, market stalls, entertainment, a carol concert and more.
Further information is to be confirmed closer to the date, so keep an eye on the website listed above for the latest news.
Seaford
Seaford Christmas Magic
Where: Broad Street, Seaford Town Market
When: Saturday 30th November 2024, 10.30am onwards (Christmas lights switch on at 5.30pm)
With a window display competition, children’s lantern parade, Christmas light switch on, market stalls, entertainment and more, Seaford Christmas Magic promises to be just that: magic!
For the 8th year, the Shoreham Christmas Makers Fair will feature a variety of handmade decorations, gifts and treats from local artisans. There will also be live choir and ukelele performances, along with delicious baked goods.
Live music, over 100 stallholders, demonstrations, workshops, a chance to meet the donkeys, a visit to Father Christmas, a Christmas trail, and the opportunity to write a postcard to Santa makes this a jam-packed day of festivities for families.
Tickets are available to purchase online, and must be booked in timeslots. Visit the website above to purchase, and to check availability.
Worthing
‘So This is Christmas’ Christmas Fair
Where: The Charmandean Centre, Forest Road, Worthing, West Sussex, BN14 9HS
Date(s): Sunday 1st December 2024, 10.30am – 3.30pm
Raising funds for St Barnabas House (there’s a suggested £1 entry donation), ‘So This is Christmas’ is a festive craft and design fair featuring 65+ stalls, a cafe, a visit from The Sussex Ghostbusters, free face painting, balloon modelling, and a raffle. Worthing’s Town Crier will open the event at 10.30am.
Free entry. Tickets available for Santa’s Grotto here
The third annual Christmas Wonderland Market will see 100 local handmade businesses come together for what’s set to be a wonderfully festive day out for all the family, in support of St Barnabas House Hospice.
Entry is free, but there’s also a Santa’s Grotto available for an additional cost. Book early to secure your child’s visit, which includes a chat with Santa, a gift, and a Christmas bauble.
With so many festive markets and events to choose from, spanning a six-week period, Sussex truly knows how to celebrate the holiday season. From unique gifts, to seasonal treats, local charm, to a huge variety of entertainment, it’s time to bundle up, grab a warm drink, and explore the best of the Christmas markets in Sussex this festive season. Merry Christmas!
Located between the rolling hills of the South Downs, and the picturesque coastline, Sussex is a hidden gem for afternoon tea enthusiasts. From indulging in delicate pastries in a 900-year-old castle, to partaking in sweet treats in the Ballroom of a quintessentially English estate, to sipping fine wines along the seafront while you enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches prepared from locally sourced ingredients, there’s no end to unique experiences on offer in this part of the world.
And in this ultimate guide to the best afternoon tea in Sussex, we’ll explore only the most special of spots to enjoy afternoon tea during your visit to this most picturesque of counties – so you can focus on what afternoon tea is all about: sheer indulgence and connection with those who join you.
After you’ve engaged in the fiercest debate of them all first, of course: cream or jam first?
What is afternoon tea?
Afternoon tea is a quintessential British tradition that has truly stood the test of time. Typically consisting of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of sweet pastries and cakes, all served on a multi-tier stand, and accompanied by a pot of tea or a glass of champagne, it makes for a wonderful treat.
But afternoon tea is more than just the exquisite flavours and various treats on offer – the real focus is placed on the social occasion, where those partaking pause their day to enjoy a spot of conversation, relaxation and indulgence while relishing the food on offer.
Where to find the best afternoon tea in West Sussex
Amberley Castle, Amberley nr Arundel
Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea within the historic walls of the 900-year-old Amberley Castle for an unforgettable experience while visiting West Sussex.
With plentiful finger sandwiches, warm scones, pastries and cakes on offer, all prepared by the in-house chefs, you won’t go home hungry.
Enjoy a tour of the Goodwood House, before settling down for a delicious afternoon tea, served in the Ballroom. Made from award-winning ingredients produced on the estate, there’s no finer backdrop for an afternoon spent enjoying a decadent offering of sweet and savoury treats.
Prices start from £34 per person, with additional upgrades available, including champagne options. Book your afternoon tea here.
Cobblestone Tea House, Steyning
Nestled in the heart of Steyning, but tucked away just off the main high street, you’ll find the cosy 15th Century Cobblestone Tea House. Ingredients are sourced locally, the scones are baked fresh that morning, and there are plenty of vegan options available on the menu. There’s also a menu for your furry friend – with dog food and ice creams on offer. For a truly dog-friendly break, discover the best dog friendly cottages in Sussex here.
Prices start at £7.50 for a cream tea, walk-ins only.
The Old Piggery Tea Room, Chichester
Traditional afternoon tea meets modern finishing touches at The Old Piggery Tea Room in Chichester. A hit with locals, the atmosphere and locally sourced ingredients make it a fantastic option for those visiting Chichester.
Priced at £19.95, it’s an affordable offering in a beautiful setting. Book your table here (24 hours notice required).
Where to find the best afternoon tea in East Sussex
Wealden Rambler Afternoon Tea, Uckfield
For a truly unique experience, enjoy a tasty afternoon tea as you travel through the Sussex countryside on ‘The Wealden Rambler’ steam train.
With a selection of traditional treats on offer, along with luxury teas and coffee, your trip lasts 1 hour 45 and sees you taking in some of the most beautiful sights on offer in the county. Priced at £65 per person, you can book your tickets here.
The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne
What could be more decadent than enjoying a traditional afternoon tea while an orchestra plays for you? Because when you book in for a Grand Hotel Palm Court Strings Quartet Afternoon Tea, that’s exactly what you can expect. Prices start at £44 per person, or £55 with a glass of Champagne, but make sure to check their calendar before booking.
Silver teapots, fine china, traditional treats freshly baked that morning, and exceptional service are all things that spring to mind when talking about Badgers Tea House – and for good reason: they’ve won multiple awards for their service and are a TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice winner.
Their afternoon tea is priced at £21.95, and served until 3pm. They don’t take bookings in advance, so it’s walk-in only.
Harbour Hotel, Brighton
With beautiful views of the Brighton seafront, it only seems fitting that Harbour Hotel’s twist on the traditional afternoon tea is Brighton Pier inspired. Think sweet cocktails, mini fish and chips, candyfloss and fresh doughnuts.
Prices start at £30 per person, and can be booked here.
Where to find the best afternoon tea in Mid Sussex
The Nutmeg Tree, Ditchling
With a 1940s theme (including uniformed waiters and waitresses, and music from the era), The Nutmeg Tree in Ditchling offers a welcome respite to those who have spent the morning exploring the South Downs.
If temperatures allow, make sure to venture out into the garden.
Prices start at £23, and we recommend booking ahead of time here to avoid disappointment.
The Tea Garden, Lewes
Step back in time in the beautiful Tea Garden tea rooms in Lewes. Featuring finger sandwiches, scones, cakes and tea and coffee refills, all served on a traditional three-tier stand, it’s the perfect way to wind down after a morning perusing the antique shops of Lewes.
Priced at £19.50, book your afternoon in advance here.
Christina’s Afternoon Tea, Henfield
Dine in (under a ‘birdcage’, no less!) or take away, Christina’s Afternoon Tea shop in Henfield offers a range of sandwiches, scones and cakes – along with providing gluten free alternatives.
Prices start at £25 per person, more information can be found here.
Wherever you’re staying in Sussex, one thing is for certain: you’ll never be too far from a high-quality, traditional afternoon tea.
