What’s On This October
Explore the best of West Sussex and discover the top events at Cowdray Estate and beyond this October. Are you looking for somewhere to stay?
October settles over the South Downs with a rich, amber warmth. Morning mist pools low in the river valleys, estate woodlands yield the finest wild mycology of the season, and woodsmoke begins to drift from hearths across West Sussex. It is a month for long walks through golden deer parks, pressings of orchard fruit, and slow, evenings observing seasonal changes from your treehouse.
Cowdray Signature Series: Autumn Retreat
3rd October, 10:00 am to 4:30 pm | Cowdray Hall, Midhurst
Mark the shifting season with Ground & Glow, a day dedicated to movement, breathwork, and quiet restoration. Hosted at Cowdray Hall, this day retreat weaves together grounding yoga, seasonal rituals, and a nourishing estate-sourced lunch designed to renew energy for the darker months ahead.
tour of the ruins
3rd October, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm | Cowdray Ruins, Midhurst
Walk in the footsteps of Tudor royalty on a guided journey through one of England’s grandest historic ruins. Inspect the preserved 500-year-old kitchen of Robert May, uncover tales of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, and ascend the spiral staircase for uninterrupted autumn views across the Rother Valley.
cowdray apple day
10th October, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm | Cowdray Farm Shop & Café
A countryside gathering celebrating the English harvest. Bring your home-grown orchard apples to press into fresh juice, sample bespoke apple-infused pastries crafted by Cowdray’s pastry team, and browse seasonal offerings from local artisan makers.
Half-Term Family Fungi Foraging Adventure
10th October, 10:30 am to 1:00 pm | Cowdray Estate Woodland
Led by resident estate foragers, this hands-on woodland walk offers families a gentle, practical introduction to wild mycology. Discover hidden forest ecosystems, learn safe species identification, and explore the estate’s autumn canopy together.
run the seasons: autumn race
10th October, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm | Cowdray Estate
An invigorating trail run through the heart of the estate’s private grounds. Weaving through ancient deer parks, private bridleways, and the golden canopy of Verdley Wood, the event offers 5k, 10k, and 10-mile routes along the Serpent Trail.
south downs festival of food and fizz
11th October, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm | South Downs Centre, Midhurst
A celebration of West Sussex epicurean culture, bringing together regional winemakers, small-batch producers, and local chefs. Expect masterclasses on English sparkling wine, sourdough workshops, street food stalls, and acoustic music in central Midhurst.
'We’re Going on a Ghost Hunt' Trail
17th October to 1st November | Petworth House & Park
Set within Capability Brown’s historic deer park and pleasure grounds, this family-friendly autumn trail brings local folklore to life. A crisp outdoor route designed for crisp afternoon strolls among centuries-old oaks and golden foliage.
As autumn draws in and twilight pulls in earlier each afternoon, the countryside invites a slower, more deliberate rhythm. Whether spent gathering wild mushrooms in ancient woodland or sipping small-batch Sussex fizz beside an open fire, these weeks capture the quiet magic of mid-autumn across the South Downs.
