Scandal, Spectacle & Social Amusements: A Most Eventful Week in Sussex
- Lady Southdowns
- Feb 2
- 9 min read
Dearest and Most Esteemed Readers,
What a riotous time it has been in our fair county of Sussex and no doubt an equally riotous one to come! Scandal! Mischief! Musical revelry! Animals behaving in the most unbecoming manner! It seems that every corner of our cherished land has played host to a spectacle worthy of great discussion over afternoon tea. And as if that were not enough, I have taken it upon myself to assemble for you a collection of the most enticing upcoming engagements to fill your social diary.
So, fetch yourself a fine cup of tea (or a glass of something rather stronger, should your constitution require it) and prepare to be deliciously entertained!
Musical Revelry at the Theatre Royal
Dearest readers, I must confess my unbridled anticipation for an upcoming affair of the utmost grandeur. This very Monday the 3rd of February, I shall be in attendance at the Theatre Royal in Brighton for a singalong production of The Greatest Showman.
Oh, what a scene it shall be! A great hall filled with voices, some melodious and others, no doubt, of a more enthusiastic variety. What a joy to cast aside the solemnities of everyday decorum and allow one’s voice to rise in unison with fellow admirers of musical splendour. I shall be watching most keenly to see who among the attendees shall prove themselves the most unapologetically theatrical!
If you are also to be in attendance, do make yourself known - I shall be the one singing just slightly louder than is considered entirely appropriate!
Drusillas Park: The Naughty and the Nice
In news most charming (and not without a hint of scandal), Drusillas Park published its 2024 ‘Naughty and Nice’ List, wherein the most angelic and the most incorrigible of its animal residents are named and shamed.
At the top of the ‘Naughty’ list - and what a delightful little villain he is - stands Dunk, a Humboldt penguin with a particular penchant for nipping at the knees of his keepers. A true rogue of the highest order! Fittingly, this mischievous fellow was named after none other than Lewis Dunk, the forthright captain of Brighton & Hove Albion – it seems that Dunk and his namesake share a knack for disruption both on and off the pitch!
And on the ‘Nice’ list, a most impeccable creature: Tank the Armadillo, heralded as ‘perfect in every way.’ But tell me, dear readers - might he simply be an expert in deception? A charmer, masquerading as an innocent? I shall watch his movements with keen interest!
For those who wish to cast their own judgments upon these delightful creatures, Drusillas Park is offering an extraordinary Half-Term treat—children can visit for just £1! A most generous opportunity to experience the wonders of Sussex’s finest zoo at a most agreeable price. Be swift, dear readers, for such an offer shall not last forever!
Sussex: The New Darling of the Discerning Traveller
It comes as no surprise to those of us fortunate enough to call Sussex our home that esteemed publication Condé Nast Traveller has bestowed upon our beloved county the honour of being named one of the "25 Best Places to Go" in 2025. At long last, the wider world has awakened to what we have always known - Sussex is a land of unrivalled beauty, history, and cultural refinement, worthy of admiration and, indeed, of envy.
With its harmonious blend of timeless grandeur and modern sophistication, our county stands poised to rival even the celebrated Cotswolds, though I daresay Sussex remains all the more charming for being the lesser-trodden gem. From the rolling South Downs, where nature’s tranquillity reigns supreme, to the lively streets of Brighton, where curious boutiques, historic inns, and elegant promenades invite leisurely indulgence, Sussex offers delights at every turn for those with the good fortune to explore them.
Meanwhile, the unveiling of the King Charles III England Coast Path grants visitors the opportunity to traverse an unparalleled scenic expanse, winding from Shoreham-by-Sea to Eastbourne, where cliff-top vistas, salt-tinged air, and the murmur of the waves provide a most invigorating retreat.
That Sussex has at last received its due recognition is most gratifying, though we, its devoted residents, have long held its virtues close to our hearts. And so, while new admirers may flock to experience its wonders, let them know they are merely discovering what we Sussex folk have always known - that there is nowhere quite like home.
The Tragic Tale of James, My Noble Steed
Permit me, dear reader, a moment of indulgence, for I feel compelled to recount a tale from my own most eventful existence. A story which, though it may seem but a trifle to some, has left upon my mind an impression most vivid and deserving of your attention. It is with great humility - and no small degree of dramatic flourish - that I must recount to you the series of calamities that have befallen my most trusty and loyal steed this past week. Alas, my dear carriage, James, who has served me faithfully upon the roads of Sussex, fell victim to the most tragic and untimely ailments!
It all began as I embarked upon a perfectly routine journey, only to find myself quite suddenly abandoned by my vehicle in what can only be described as a most distressing manner. The engine spluttered, the lights dimmed and before I could even utter a prayer, my noble conveyance had resigned itself to a most inconvenient halt.
I, an unaccompanied lady (with no footman nor gallant knight in sight), was thus left at the mercy of fate. But, dear reader, let it be known: the valiant heroes of the AA rode to my rescue with all the swiftness and gallantry of a regiment charging into battle! With kindness, efficiency, and the utmost professionalism, these modern-day knights restored me to safety, ensuring that I was neither left alone nor entirely at the mercy of the elements.
Yet, the saga did not end there! Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the villainous culprit of my vehicular woes was none other than a treacherous alternator, whose time upon this earth had most definitively expired. I feared, momentarily, that all was lost - but then, dear reader, enter K&P Motor Services in Seaford, a most distinguished establishment of mechanical wizards who, in a feat of engineering prowess, replaced the accursed part and restored my carriage to full glory in a matter of hours.
What 5-star, impeccable, truly first-rate service! The fine gentlepeople at K&P Autos were not only quick and efficient but also soothing to the nerves of a lady in vehicular despair.
Thus, let this serve as both a cautionary tale (for one must never trust an aging alternator) and a resounding endorsement of the AA’s chivalrous road assistance and the inestimable excellence of K&P Autos. Should you ever find yourself in need of motoring salvation, look no further - these heroes are the very saviours of Sussex’s stranded souls!
Upcoming Events Most Worthy of Your Attention
As the social season in Sussex continues to flourish, I am delighted to present a selection of forthcoming events that promise to enchant and entertain. From celestial observations to theatrical delights, our county offers a plethora of engagements to suit the most discerning of tastes.
Stargazing at Beachy Head
Date: Saturday 8 February 2025
Location: Beachy Head, Eastbourne
Cost of Admission: Free
Perched upon the majestic cliffs of Beachy Head, where the land meets the infinite sky, prepare for an evening of celestial enchantment. As darkness descends, the heavens shall unveil their brilliance, a glittering expanse of cosmic wonder. Guided by learned astronomers, you shall traverse the mysteries of the night sky, from shimmering constellations to distant galaxies, each twinkling light a story waiting to be told. Whether you are a seasoned scholar of the stars or a humble admirer of their splendour, this promises to be an evening of boundless awe and cosmic reverie.
'Pride & Prejudice (sort of)' at Chichester Festival Theatre
Dates: Tuesday 11 February – Saturday 15 February 2025
Venue: Chichester Festival Theatre, Chichester
Cost of Admission: £10 - £48
Experience Jane Austen's classic tale as you have never witnessed it before! This bold and brilliantly witty adaptation promises to breathe fresh life into the beloved saga of Elizabeth Bennet and the dashing Mr. Darcy, offering a whirlwind of irreverence, charm, and unexpected delight. These are set to be performances of theatrical ingenuity, sure to captivate admirers of literature and the stage alike.
Valentine's Day Dinner at Amberley Castle
Dates: Friday 14 February – Saturday 15 February 2025
Venue: Amberley Castle, Amberley
Cost of Admission: £120 pp
Within the storied walls of Amberley Castle, where history whispers through every ancient stone, romance shall reign supreme. Guests shall indulge in a sumptuous repast, exquisitely prepared for the occasion, while surrounded by the grandeur of this medieval stronghold, its flickering candlelight and timeworn charm setting the scene for an evening of enchantment. This gathering is poised to offer couples a most memorable sojourn into the realm of timeless romance.
The Incident Room at The New Venture Theatre
Dates: Friday 14 February – Friday 22 February 2025
Venue: The New Venture Theatre, Brighton
Cost of Admission: £10 - £12
Step inside the Millgarth Incident Room, Leeds, the very heart of Britain’s largest-ever manhunt, where the pursuit of a shadowy figure grips a nation in fear. Within these walls, the weight of justice hangs heavy as Sergeant Megan Winterburn and her fellow officers toil ceaselessly, their every effort consumed by the desperate race to unmask a spectre that haunts the streets. With public scrutiny mounting and the case spiralling into ever more audacious and unconventional tactics, the search takes on a feverish urgency, exposing the relentless pressures and perils of the pursuit.
Penned by Olivia Hurst & David Byrne and directed by Richard Lindfield, this evocative production delves into the dark recesses of history, unearthing the trials and tribulations of those ensnared in a case that gripped the nation. Featuring strong language, scenes of violence and unsettling themes, this is not a tale for the faint of heart. Haze effects will be in use. Tickets are now available for those prepared to step into the very depths of this chilling chapter of British criminal history.
Nature Heroes: Dino Detective at Wakehurst
Dates: Saturday 15 February – Sunday 23 February 2025
Location: Wakehurst, Haywards Heath
Cost of Admission: £4 - £14.50
Venture back in time to an era when giants roamed the earth and mysteries lay buried beneath the soil. At Wakehurst, young explorers shall don the mantle of 'Dino Detectives,' unearthing the secrets of prehistoric creatures through hands-on exhibits, interactive discoveries, and thrilling fossil-hunting adventures. This promises to be a captivating and enlightening outing for families seeking both education and excitement during the half-term break.
February Half Term Fun at Drusillas Park
Dates: Saturday 15 February – Sunday 23 February 2025
Location: Drusillas Park, Berwick
Cost of admission: Varies - see website for special offers
Drusillas Park flings wide its gates for a week of wonder and wild encounters, where even the most mischievous of its residents - and yes, Dunk the Humboldt penguin himself - shall no doubt be up to their usual antics. Offering an extraordinary menagerie of experiences for families seeking adventure, this half-term celebration comes with an added delight - children may enter for just £1! From up-close meetings with exotic creatures to whimsical play areas brimming with laughter, this lively affair is set to provide thrills, amusement, and delightful diversions throughout the half-term holiday.
Lemoncello at Pinot & Picasso
Dates: Friday 28 February
Location: Pinot & Picasso Brighton Venue
Cost of Admission: £39
If ever there were an event to lift the spirits and tantalise the senses, this must surely be it! Prepare to embrace the zestiest of artistic endeavours as you sip, swirl, and paint your way to citrus-infused brilliance.
Under the expert tutelage of a most talented and patient artist, guests shall be guided step by step in the creation of a delightfully vibrant masterpiece - a tribute to the ever-cheerful lemon! Whether you are a seasoned virtuoso or have never so much as lifted a brush, fear not; this evening promises to be as lighthearted as it is creative.
Thus concludes our latest chronicle of Sussex’s most splendid happenings and forthcoming engagements - a week adorned with revelry, intrigue and the occasional waddling scoundrel. May these accounts provide both delight and diversion as we meander through the ever-unfolding tapestry of our shared story. Yet, as all things must, this edition draws to a close, though I daresay the coming days shall bring no shortage of scandal, spectacle, and social amusements to entice and enthrall.
Until we meet again, dear reader, may your engagements be many, your inconveniences be few, and should fate conspire to waylay you upon your travels, may gallant souls appear in your hour of need!
Yours most sincerely,
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