SUSSEX DAY CELEBRATION

by | Mar 10, 2026

SUSSEX DAY will be celebrated in Hailsham with a free community event. The High Street will be closed so that visitors can enjoy a beer tent, market stalls selling locally sourced products and a full programme of live entertainment. Highlights include traditional maypole dancing by local Brownies, performances by Hailsham Choral Society (including ‘Sussex by the Sea’), the Sussex Stompers and Long Man Morris Dancers. Families will enjoy close-up magic, balloon modelling and a Punch and Judy show with Hailsham FM providing coverage and music. Shops and businesses will be dressing their windows for a best dressed window competition.

RAY RUSSELL CONCERT AT THE PAVILION

by | Mar 9, 2026

LOCAL MUSICIAN RAY RUSSELL and also composer, producer and virtuoso guitarist is back at the Pavilion for another hometown gig, with his prestigious band and a whole set of new material for 2026.

Regarded by some as one of the most prolific recording artists in British Music history, Ray has been busy recording yet another album titled, ‘We Are Here’.

Co–producing and mixing the album, is his old friend Greg Walsh, who has worked with many internationally recognised artists most notably Tina Turner (with Ray Russell), Pink Floyd, Chicago, Luciano Pavarotti and Kate Bush.

Join Ray and the band at the Hailsham Pavilion and together we can say ‘We are Here’. The show is on Saturday 21 March at 7.30pm at Hailsham Pavilion. Tickets in person from the box office, by phone on 01323 841414 or online at www.hailshampavilion.co.uk.

MEDIEVAL HERITAGE WEEKEND

by | Mar 1, 2026

We are thrilled to announce that this May Bank Holiday, Herstmonceux Castle Estate will transport visitors back over 600 years for an immersive Medieval Heritage Weekend.

Taking place across the first May Bank Holiday (Saturday 2nd to Monday 4th May), this three-day event celebrates the very origins of our castle—a fortress built in 1441 by Sir Roger Fiennes, Treasurer of the Household to Henry VI.

What to Expect:

Step into the past and experience history brought vividly to life. Throughout the weekend, the castle grounds will be filled with:

  • Authentic Reenactment: Highly skilled reenactors in period costume will bring medieval life to the grounds, from knightly combat displays to daily camp life.

  • Combat Demonstrations: Witness the clash of sword and shield as our reenactors stage thrilling combat displays.

  • Artisan Crafts & Demonstrations: Watch skilled craftspeople demonstrate traditional medieval trades and techniques—a living link to the very crafts that built and sustained this castle.

  • Family Entertainment: With activities for all ages, there’s something to captivate every family member.

This is more than an event; it’s an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of those who lived, worked, and fought here six centuries ago. With strong educational and cultural value at its heart, the Medieval Heritage Weekend offers a rare chance to connect with the rich tapestry of our history.

Event Details:

  • Dates: Saturday 2nd – Monday 4th May

  • Times: 10.00am – 5.00pm (last entry 4.00pm)

  • Day tickets: £18 for adults and £8 for children – under 4’s are free – Buy tickets here

We look forward to welcoming you to a weekend of history, spectacle, and family fun.

https://herstmonceux-castle.com/event/medieval-heritage-weekend/