What’s On This September
Explore the best of West Sussex and discover the top events at Cowdray Estate and beyond this August. Looking for somewhere to stay?
September in West Sussex is quietly spectacular. The high summer heat softens into mellow afternoons, hedgerows begin to blush with the first hints of autumn, and the pace of life takes on a gentler rhythm. Whether you’re visiting for slow living, seasonal food or artistic inspiration, this month brings a wealth of experiences rooted in nature, creativity and calm.
Here’s our curated guide to the most inspiring events at Cowdray and beyond this September.
Textures of Time: Capturing Light in the Ruins – A Pastel Workshop
8th September, 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM | Cowdray Ruins
Step into a painter’s perspective and learn to capture the play of light in Cowdray’s majestic ruins using soft pastels on dark paper. Guided by a local artist, this hands-on workshop is perfect for beginners and a soulful way to engage with the estate’s atmosphere.
Buy Tickets (£30)
Deep Relaxation Soundbath Session
19th September, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Cowdray Hall
Let the calming sounds of gongs, bowls and gentle percussion guide you into deep rest. This therapeutic sonic experience is designed to relax the body, rebalance the nervous system and restore clarity. Ideal if you’re seeking a quiet evening of intentional pause.
More Info
Afternoon Tea at the Walled Garden
21st September, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Cowdray Estate
Enjoy a beautifully prepared afternoon tea in the serene setting of Cowdray’s Walled Garden. With seasonal bakes from The Yellow Kitchen and views across the landscaped grounds, it’s a timeless British tradition done with flair.
Buy Tickets (£15 – £35.50)
Extended Immersive Soundbath Session
21st September, 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM | Cowdray Hall
A deeper dive into sound healing, this extended session includes two full hours of immersive sound, followed by tea and cake in the calm surroundings of Cowdray Hall. An uplifting way to end your weekend.
More Info
September Evening Dining: Seasons at Cowdray
27th September, 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM | Cowdray Café
Mark the launch of Cowdray’s new cookbook with an exquisite multi-course dinner celebrating seasonal Sussex produce. Set in the atmospheric café space after hours, the evening is a love letter to the estate’s culinary story.
Buy Tickets (£75 – £105)
Turner’s Vision at Petworth
All September | Petworth House
This landmark exhibition brings JMW Turner’s most intimate studies of the Petworth landscape home for the first time in 20 years. Featuring loans from Tate and private collections, it’s a rare opportunity to see the scenery that shaped one of Britain’s greatest artists. Wander the Capability Brown-designed parkland, then see how it inspired masterpieces still revered today.
As autumn tiptoes in and the woodlands shift from green to gold, September offers a quietly magical moment to reset. Stay close to nature, indulge in good food, and savour the beauty of slower days. Whether you’re gathering inspiration or simply pressing pause, our treehouses offer the perfect base for your West Sussex escape.
