What’s on? Summer holidays in West Sussex
The middle of the summer holiday can start to feel long if you’re becoming stuck for ideas of things to do with the family. With just a few weeks left to make the most of the summer, we’ve pulled out some of our top picks from across West Sussex that everyone will enjoy.
From educational adventures that’ll take you back in time to getting up close to wriggly bugs and reptiles, there are plenty of activities to ensure you end the summer break with fond, fun memories.
Summer Fun at Fishbourne Roman Palace
Every Thursday in August, Fishbourne
There’s a chance to step back in time and try all things Roman at Fishbourne Roman Palace, as history comes alive with hands-on activities for all ages to enjoy. Create clay lamps and coil pots, have a go at dressing up, make your own mosaic design, play some Roman games and explore the gardens!
Arundel Festival 2018
18-27 August, Arundel
2018 is a special year for the Arundel Festival, celebrating its 40th anniversary. Watch the town come alive with music, food, poetry, art, dancing and street performers. Visitors can watch the Dragon Boat race on the River Arun, or discover your inner bard whilst listening to Shakespeare in the grounds of the stunning Arundel Castle.
Wonderful Wednesdays at Weald and Downland
Every Wednesday in August, Chichester
Summer activities at the Weald and Downland Living Museum this August are themed around the senses, so go on an adventure that tantalises the taste buds and try homemade scones in the Tudor Kitchen or have a go at willow weaving.
The Garden of Imagination at Borde Hill
30 July – 31 August, Haywards Heath
The mystical trails at Borde Hill will allow your kids to let their imaginations run wild as they encounter fantasy creatures and hidden fairy doors! Plus, across selected days they can get involved in special activities from circus skills and balloon modelling to creating fairy houses at a summer crafts workshop.
Summer games in the garden at Petworth House
Throughout the holidays, Petworth
Stop by the Play Tent at Petworth House and try some traditional garden games. Teach your little ones how to play classics such as skittles, croquet and cricket, or try something new that you can all learn together.
Hunt for minibeasts with Wild Families, RSPB Pulborough Brooks
Every Wednesday in August, Pulborough
Take part in Wild Families and join nature reserve, RSPB Pulborough Brooks, for a variety of wildlife activities, including ditch dipping, snake hunts and hunting for minibeasts!
Wiggly Weekend at Fishers Farm Park
18-19 August, Horsham
Get up close with reptiles, bugs and amphibians from around the world. Experts at Fishers Farm Park will hold live participation sessions with creatures including snakes, tarantulas and cockroaches if you’re feeling brave enough!
Floral family trail at Nymans
Daily until 19 August, Handcross
The whole family can take this beautiful garden trail at their own pace and take part in activities to learn more about summery plants and flowers at Nymans. Go on a flower hunt, draw your findings and complete the petal search to explore the whole garden.
Inflatable aqua park at Chichester Watersports
Chichester
Wear yourselves out at the exhilarating inflatable aqua park on Chichester Watersports’ huge lake, as you run, jump, splash and climb your way around! Fun at any time, but ideal during the summer holidays as a great way to cool off on the hot days.
Looking for more inspiration of things to do this summer break? Check out our things to do pages and filter down the activities based on what you like doing, or have a look at our family fun itinerary. Tell us what you’re up to this summer by tagging your posts on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook with #LateSummerAdventure!