Ardingly Antiques and Collectors Fair
The largest fair in the South of England, the Ardingly Fair has a wonderful selection of vintage finds from the UK and Europe - it is a perfect place to while away a few hours whilst browsing for treasure.
Bluebell Railway
Travelling through the Sussex countryside on the Bluebell Railway is one of the best family days out and good for all ages.
Fish from Brighton and New Haven
Take a trip to Hove Lagoon and watch the fish land at Brighton and New Haven Fish Sales before buying the freshest, local fish and shellfish.
Gardens
Some of the greatest British gardens are just a short drive from Ockenden Manor, from Borde Hill with its renowned Edwardian Garden, Nymans with its extensive garden set around a romantic house and ruins to the botanical gardens at Wakehurst Place.
Also not to be missed are High Beeches particularly when the rhododendrons are in bloom and the vast Sheffield Park.
Glyndebourne
Glyndebourne is a lovely opera house in a marvelous setting - surrounded by fields of sheep, wildflowers, and orchids. The garden is traditionally beautiful yet imaginative and the opera is classic and stunning. A truly British experience and one not to be missed.
Hickstead
Hickstead is the home of British show-jumping with some of the oldest and most prestigious shows in the equestrian calendar and some pretty hair-raising jumps. Events run throughout the year and include show-jumping, dressage, and polo with international riders.
High Weald Dairy
Sample some of the finest Sussex cheese at the High Weald Dairy but best of all, you can spend a day learning how to make cheese! Their Brighton Blue received a gold award at the Nantwich cheese show, the biggest cheese competition in the world, with over 5000 entries vying for awards. Brighton Blue is a delicious mellow blue cheese.
Pooh Corner
Visit the inspiration for the setting for A.A. Milne's lovable bear and the real Pooh places including 100 Acre Wood and Roo's Sandy Pit.
Tulley's Farm
A very unique family day out with loads of seasonal events. Try throwing an ax, driving a hovercraft, or you could just get lost in their maze. Tulley's Farm is renowned for its imaginative approach to entertainment.
Vineyards
Some of the finest English Sparkling wine comes from Sussex, here are some of their favorites where you will be welcomed with open arms.
Bluebell Vineyard
Home of the delicious and award-winning Hindleap wines.
Ridgeview Estate
A wonderfully friendly and family-run estate producing some of the best wine in the UK. Discover one of only four traditional Coquard presses outside France at Wiston Estate producing the highest quality wine.
Isopod flotation
For complete tranquility and calm, nothing compares to an hour spent in their isopod flotation tank. Body temperature saltwater suspends you effortlessly, allowing every muscle total relaxation.
Research shows that not only is it an invaluable injury rehabilitation aid, but it also relieves pain and boosts the immune system. A boon to meditation, it is also proven to reduce stress, encourage endorphins, and promote mental clarity.
Elemental rebalancing ritual
Created exclusively for Ockenden Manor Spa, this bespoke treatment restores balance to the whole body using the five elements. After selecting the five element oil specific to your needs, hot Thai compresses are used to eliminate toxins and release tension throughout the whole body.
Stretches and acupressure help to energize the body’s flow of Qi, promoting a feeling of optimum well-being. A luxurious foot scrub is followed by a transformative facial that deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates for a brighter complexion.
Topped with a glass of Ridgeview Estate and a box of handmade chocolates created especially for this divinely indulgent treatment.
Five-element aroma facial
The bespoke facial is tailored to harmonize the five elements and address the key underlying concerns of the skin. This transformative facial combines healing botanicals, vitamins, and marine extracts to feed the skin and restore equilibrium while creating a more vibrant and healthy complexion. %Incorporating deep cleansing, exfoliation, and a luxurious facial massage, this treatment replenishes the skin giving you immediate and long-lasting results.
Reflexology
Focusing on one of the most neglected parts of your bodies, the feet. This reflexology zone massage will help rebalance the body by working on reflex points in the feet which correspond to the rest of your body. An intensely nourishing Elemental Herbology body balm is used that softens and smooths even the driest of skins whilst restoring lost energy and leaving you delightfully relaxed.
