Autumn Adventures in West Sussex

Autumn is a magical time to seek out West Sussex's panoramic views: Take a leisurely stroll through the Halnaker tree tunnel and on to the iconic Halnaker Windmill and soak up the breathtaking autumnal vistas of the surrounding countryside, take a leisurely stroll along the Chichester Canal or see the sweeping vistas from Black Down.
Don't miss: Visit our Top 10 walks for more autumn inspiration.

Surround yourself with the golden pallet of autumn leaves at the historic gardens of Petworth House & Park and follow the ancient tree trail, or visit the peaceful West Dean Gardens where you might see dahlias adding impressive bursts of colour and trees laden with apples waiting to be harvested. 
Don't miss: visit the West Dean shop to purchase the seasonal fruit and veg freshly picked from the Walled Garden, and keep an eye out for Orchard Tours running on various dates during September 2025

Embrace Autumn's coastal charm by taking a brisk walk along the beach, choose from the West Wittering or East Wittering, Selsey and Chichester Harbour and search for seashells, fossils at Bracklesham Bay and treasures washed ashore, especially during Spring tides.
Recommended: A warming hot chocolate afterwards from local cafes Drift In, The Beach at Bracklesham or The Boulevard, Selsey

In autumn West Sussex's hedges and woodlands are full of nature’s delights. Look for blackberries, sloes, apples and elderberries . Why not book yourself onto a mushroom foraging course with Foraging with Fern, Celebrate Apple Day at Cowdray Estate or join Cowdray's forager on an Autumnal Foraging Walk & Woodland Wild Picnic.

Experience the joy of harvesting your own seasonal favourites at local farms including Dell Quay PYO. From juicy apples to crisp beans and sweet grapes, savour the fresh flavours of autumn's bounty. No autumn is complete without pumpkins! Visit Bignor, Arundel, and Rogate Pumpkin Patches to pick the perfect one for Halloween decorations and carving creations. 

As autumn is such a abundant time of year, what better time to seek out fresh, seasonal produce and artisan goods at the vibrant farmers' markets held in Chichester, Petworth & Midhurst - a real taste of Sussex! Pick up freshly baked bread, West Sussex wine, locally made chocolate and many more tempting treats.

Autumn is harvest time for West Sussex's vineyards. Why not try your hand a picking grapes at one of the special harvest days at one of the many stunning vineyards nestled within the South Downs. Visit Ashling Wine Estate or Tinwood to learn about the winemaking process, savour the delicious wines produced and take home a bottle as a souvenir of your visit.
Don't miss: Some of our award-winning vineyards also feature fabulous accommodation, so why not make a mini-break of it!

Spend a fun-filled afternoon at Langham Brewery for an unforgettable afternoon celebrating the humble conker! Bonkers for Conkers is a family-friendly event featuring local food, award-winning beer brewed on-site, and the classic playground favourite – conkers! All while raising money for the Chestnut Foundation.

Embark on a spine-tingling adventure through some of West Sussex's haunted landscapes. Explore historic locations including Arundel Castle, Cowdray Castle, the haunted streets of Chichester, or venture to the infamous Racton Monument, said to be the most haunted spot in the West Sussex!

For those who seeking out spooky adventures, nestled within the rolling hills of Kingley Vale lies a place shrouded in mystery – the King's Graves, or Devil's Humps. Local legends whisper of Viking leaders buried here in 894, their final resting place marked by a grove of ancient yews. These gnarled trees stand as silent sentinels, fuelling tales of the woods haunted by restless spirits of Vikings and druids. Some even claim the very trees themselves awaken under the cloak of darkness, their branches twisting and turning in an ethereal dance.

Celebrate Guy Fawkes Night with spectacular fireworks display and bonfire. Join the festivities at Fontwell Park, Hampers Green and Petworth (Saturday November 8th 17:00 - 20:00). Members of The Kennels, Goodwood, can enjoy the annual bonfire and fireworks celebrations on three dates this year, 24th, 25th October and 1st November.