A collection of baubles displayed for sale at a Christmas market

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. 

Ready to book your winter escape in Sussex? Click here to explore our range of luxury holiday homes

Ardingly

Ardingly Winter Fair – South of England Showground

Where: South of England Showground, Selsfield Road, Ardingly, West Sussex, RH17 6TL

Date(s): 23rd November (9am-5pm), 24th November 2024 (9am-4pm)

Further information: Here

Book tickets: Here

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! 

There are no shortage of Christmas markets in Sussex to enjoy this festive season. The image shows a blurred out Christmas market with fairy lights, stalls, and shoppers

Arundel 

Arundel Museum Christmas Fayre

Where: Arundel Museum

When: Saturday 30th November, 10.30am – 3.30pm

Further information: Here

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. 

Looking for a place to stay during your visit this festive season? Browse our collection of luxury Sussex holiday homes here.

Christmas Craft Fair

Where: The Swan Hotel, 27-29 High St, Arundel

When: Saturday 30th November, 11am – 4pm

Further information: Here

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. 

Brighton

Sussex Christmas Market

Where: Brighton Racecourse

Date(s): 7th & 8th December 2024

Book tickets: Here

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.

Book your luxury stay in Brighton here for a trip to remember

Brighton Etsy Christmas Market

Where: The Clarendon Centre, 47 New England Street, Brighton, BN1 4GQ

Date(s): 7th December 2024, 10am – 5pm

Further information: Here

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. 

Chichester

Chichester Christmas Market

Where: East and North Street

Date(s): 24th November, 7th – 15th December

Further information: Here

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. 

Discover the 17 Best Things to Do in Chichester (According to a Local!) here

Chichester Indoor Christmas Market

Where: Westgate Leisure Centre

When: 10th November, 9am-2pm

Further information: Here

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. 

Eastbourne

Meads Magic

Where: Meads Village, Meads Street, Eastbourne

When: Friday 29th November 2024, 2.30 – 7.30pm

Further information: Here

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

When: Friday 6th December 2024, 12 – 9pm

Further information: Here

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. 

East Grinstead

East Grinstead Christmas Market

Where: London Road, East Grinstead

When: Sunday 8th December, 11am – 3pm

Further information: Here

Head to London Road for a day of entertainment, gift shopping, crafts and tasty foods. 

A collection of baubles displayed for sale at a Christmas market

Hastings

Hastings Makers Market

Where: The Yard, Waterworks Road, Hastings

When: Saturday 30th November 2024, Saturday 7th December 2024, Saturday 14th December 2024, 11am – 4pm

Further information: Here

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.  

Pure Christmas Market

Where: Bannatyne’s Hotel and Spa, Hastings

When: Sunday 17th November 2024, 11am – 4pm

Further information: Here

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

Further information: Here

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. 

Discover the Best Dog-Friendly Cottages in Sussex here

Lewes

Lewes Christmas Market

Where: The Royal Oak, 3 Station Street, Lewes

When: Saturday 16th November 2024, 10am – 4pm

Further information: Here

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. 

Petworth 

Petworth’s Christmas Cracker

Where: Petworth Centre

When: Saturday 7th December 2024

Further information: Here

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

Further information: Here

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. 

Baubles on display to purchase similar to those available from Christmas markets in Sussex

Rye

Rye Christmas Festival

Where: Rye

Date(s): Saturday 7th December 2024

Further information: Here

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)

Further information: Here

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! 

Shoreham

Shoreham Christmas Makers Fair

Where: The Shoreham Centre

When: Saturday 7th December 2024, 10am – 3.30pm

Further information: Here

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. 

Weald & Downland

Advent & Christmas Market

Where: Weald & Download Living Museum

When: 23rd & 24th November 2024

Further information: Here 

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. 

Nativity scenes available to purchase from a Christmas market

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

Further information: Here

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. 

Book your West Sussex luxury accommodation here

Christmas Wonderland Market & Santa’s Grotto

Where: The Assembly Hall, Stoke Abbott Road, Worthing, BN11 1HQ

Date(s): Sunday 17th November 2024, 10am – 4pm

Further information: Here

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! 

An image of strawberries and scones, included in the best afternoon tea in Sussex

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. 

An image of strawberries and scones, included in the best afternoon tea in Sussex

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. 

Prices start at £50 per head, with optional upgrades featuring sparkling wines and champagnes available. Book your afternoon tea in Amberley Castle here. 

Why not make a weekend getaway of your visit to the area, and stay in one of our wonderful luxury holiday homes in Amberley?

Goodwood House, Goodwood Estate

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). 

Discover the best things to do in Chichester, and our Chichester-based properties here

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. 

The best afternoon tea in Sussex typically includes a mixture of savoury bites, sweet treats and lots of tea.

Other options are also available in their beautiful lounges, starting from £34 per person. Click here to find out more and book your afternoon tea. 

Badgers Tea House, Alfriston

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. 

If you’re ready to plan a getaway to this historic and picturesque county, peruse our property collection to find your luxurious holiday let, and let us help you make it a trip to remember.