Christmas

Just hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring-tingle-tingling! 1066 Country is pulling on its fluffy white beard and red velvet hat, ready for a fantastic Christmas season.

From Bedgebury's magical mile-long illuminated trail to visits from Santa at Drusillas and the Rare Breeds Centre, the St Leonards Frost Fair and festive songs to get you in the swing, there's loads to do.

Many of our historic sites pull out all the stops at this time of year, with Kent & East Sussex Railway putting on special Santa rides, Father Christmas visiting Bodiam Castle, and Bateman's greeting visitors with a roaring fire and giant Christmas tree, and opulent Just So themed decorations.

There's nothing like a handmade, locally bought Christmas gift. The Tourist Information Centre in Hastings is a great source of these (including the 1066 Card, which costs £9.99 and gives you discounts at loads of local businesses), as is the gift shop at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve!

There are also a host of special shopping events that support businesses in 1066 Country, such as these at Eggs to Apples in Hurst Green and Pashley Manor in Wadhurst. You can even get a beautiful British-grown Christmas tree at Bedgebury. 

Or for something really different, how about a gift voucher from Vine + Country for a vineyard tour in warmer times to come – or a super-cosy 'At Home' wine and food experience?

In Hastings The Pop-Up Emporium will be visiting Hastings Stade and All Saints Hall, there will be an Etsy event at The Printworks, the Sara Lee Trust is holding a Christmas Fair at the Hastings Centre, and Hastings Old Town is holding a Christmas Shopping Weekend.

In Battle the festivities kick off with the switching on of the lights, there's a Gala Night with late-night shopping, and a live radio play of It's a Wonderful Life.

In Rye there's a Christmas Festival and a pop-up at Rye Creative Centre, as well as candle-lit ghost tours and a Mapp and Lucia event at Lamb House.

Fancy a last-minute break? Save money with these special offers for stays in December.

Browse the listings below to see what else is happening this festive season. You may also like our let's get cosy page, and, looking ahead, our healthy new year ideas!