As the longest day of the year arrives and the summer is finally upon us, people all across Sussex gather to enjoy solstice celebrations.
Whether you’re looking for ancient traditions, beautiful sunrises, or outdoor swimming, our county has no shortage of memorable ways to enjoy midsummer.
Here are five incredible places to celebrate the summer solstice this June.
1. Highdown Hill, Worthing
Highdown Hill is one of Sussex’s most atmospheric spots, and it offers a traditional solstice celebration every year that combines folklore, community spirit, and stunning scenery.
Set above the coast near Worthing, the Hill sees the Sompting Village Morris group lead an evening walk up to the top, complete with Morris dancing, live music, and the lighting of a flaming beacon at sunset to welcome the longest day of the year.
The celebration usually begins with a walk from The Spotted Cow pub in Angmering before you make your way up the hill to enjoy the sunset over the sea.
2. Brighton i360 Sunrise Experience
Few experiences compare to watching the sunrise from the Brighton i360 at any time of the year, let alone on the summer solstice.
From a glass viewing pod towering 138 metres above the coastline, you can watch the first light of the longest day spread across the Brighton seafront on one side and the South Downs on the other.
The solstice visits typically last longer than standard journeys, giving you plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the views. Inside the pod, you can enjoy a hot drink or visit the Nyetimber Sky Bar while the city sleeps beneath your feet.
If you’re feeling daring, there’s even the option of the open-air Walk 360 experience on top of the pod itself, which is a truly unique and spectacular way to welcome in the midsummer morning.
3. Pells Pool, Lewes
There are few better ways to start the day than with an outdoor swim, and the morning of the summer solstice is the perfect time to take a plunge.
Pells Pool has been part of Lewes since 1861 and is the UK’s oldest freshwater outdoor public swimming pool. The pool itself is naturally warmed by the sun, making a midsummer dip feel especially refreshing after a long warm day.
The summer solstice swim has become one of the most popular events Pells Pool hosts. With beautiful lawns, picnic spots, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to celebrate the arrival of summer.
4. Middle Farm Summer Solstice Maker’s Fair, Firle
If you’re drawn to folklore and Sussex heritage, Middle Farm’s Summer Solstice Maker’s Fair is the perfect place to visit for a weekend celebration.
Set among the ancient fields of Firle and one of Sussex’s oldest working farms, the event brings together local potters, jewellers, textile artists, printmakers, and craftspeople who sell, demonstrate, and teach their trades.
While there, you can browse outdoor stalls, watch live demonstrations, or explore the farm’s cider barn, tearoom, and farm shop.
With family activities including solstice-inspired face painting, the Maker’s Fair offers a great day out for all ages, and a celebration of the solstice and the creative spirit of Sussex.
5. River Haven, Rye
If you’re looking for a more relaxed celebration with riverside drinks and good food, the River Haven in Rye has you covered.
The hotel and bar host a solstice celebration that involves gathering by the river from early evening for summer cocktails, delicious food, and a laid-back atmosphere as the sun slowly sets on 20 June.
So, if you don’t fancy an early morning and want to see off the shortest night instead of welcoming the longest day, River Haven could be perfect for you.
Get in touch
Our team of independent financial advisers in Lewes is here to support you with managing your wealth so you can focus on enjoying everything Sussex has to offer.
To find out more, please get in touch by emailing us at financial@barwells-wealth.co.uk or by phone on 01273 086 311.
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