What’s On This february
Explore the best of West Sussex and discover the top events at Cowdray Estate and beyond this February. Looking for somewhere to stay?
February on the Cowdray Estate feels calm but considered. The evenings are still long, the skies darker, and the month lends itself well to slower plans. From stargazing and winter dining to exhibitions and half-term adventures, there’s plenty happening within easy reach of TreeHouse Retreats.
Here are a few events to plan your stay around this month.
Valentine’s Sparkling Stargazing Experience
Friday 14 February | 6:30pm – 8:30pm | Ambersham Polo Grounds
Begin Valentine’s Day with a glass of Gusbourne before heading outdoors for a guided exploration of the winter night sky. Led by local astronomer Dr John Mason MBE, the evening offers the chance to spot planets, including Jupiter and Saturn, as well as constellations, satellites, and shooting stars.
Evening Dining: The Sussex Supper
Friday 28 February | 6:30pm – 10pm | Cowdray Farm Shop Café
Celebrate the end of winter with an evening inspired by the estate’s farming heritage. This three-course menu centres on Cowdray Beef, including dairy beef and Wagyu from the estate herd, alongside seasonal dishes that highlight Sussex produce. Vegetarian options will feature other estate ingredients, including foraged wild mushrooms.
The evening begins with welcome drinks, followed by dinner.
Dark Skies Festival 2026
Thursday 12 – Sunday 22 February | South Downs National Park
February marks the return of the Dark Skies Festival, celebrating ten years of the South Downs’ designation as an International Dark Sky Reserve. The festival explores the value of darkness through guided walks, talks, online content and new experiences planned for 2026, including a night-time Constellations and Creatures trail.
Full programme details will be released in January, but the dates are worth noting if you’re planning a winter stay.
Mudfest 2026
Saturday 14 – Saturday 21 February | 10am – 4pm | WWT Arundel Wetland Centre
A half-term favourite, Mudfest returns with hands-on activities designed for children and families. Expect mud kitchens, clay sculpting, puddle splashing and seed bomb making, all set within the wetlands at Arundel.
Ideal for guests visiting with family and looking for relaxed daytime plans nearby.
Lunch & Learn: Weight-Loss Jabs and Nutrition
Thursday 26 February | 12pm – 1pm | Cowdray Hall
This Lunch & Learn session takes a clear, balanced look at weight management injections such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro, exploring how they work and their nutritional implications. The talk offers practical guidance for those currently using these medications, considering them, or planning to transition off.
The session includes a simple, nourishing lunch and is well-suited to a mid-stay reset.
February stays at TreeHouse Retreats tend to feel quietly rewarding. Dark skies, thoughtful events, and the comfort of the treehouse create space to slow down and enjoy the season.
