Living History: Michaelmas

3 – 4 October 2026
Location: Singleton Chichester West Sussex PO18 0EU

Celebrate the arrival of autumn and traditional seasonal customs at Michaelmas, a historic festival marking the feast of St Michael and All Angels and the closing of the harvest season. Join the team at the Weald & Downland Living Museum for a weekend of living history, demonstrations and autumn activities across this remarkable open-air museum set in the South Downs countryside.

What to Expect:
• Traditional Market Demonstrations: See a recreated 16th-century market brought to life with demonstrations of historic trades, crafts and seasonal produce around the Museum’s market square.
• Historic Autumn Feast: Watch the Museum interpretation team prepare and enjoy a Michaelmas meal in the Bayleaf Farmstead, with opportunities to learn about historic food customs and harvest traditions.
• Talks & Storytelling: Interact with interpreters who explain the significance of Michaelmas — from folklore and goose-eating traditions to its place in the rural calendar.

Stay Nearby — Avisford Park Hotel, Arundel

Make your visit to events in Arundel extra relaxing by staying at the Avisford Park Hotel, a stylish and welcoming hotel set amidst acres of scenic grounds, just a short drive from Arundel town centre.

Why Stay at Avisford Park Hotel:

Elegant & Comfortable Rooms: Choose from a range of well-appointed rooms with ensuite facilities, free Wi-Fi, and all the comforts you need to unwind after a busy day at your event.

Convenient Location: Located just off the A27, the hotel offers easy access to Arundel Castle, the South Downs National Park, and other local attractions, while being perfectly placed for events across the region.

Food & Drink On-Site: Enjoy hearty meals, seasonal dishes, and drinks in the hotel’s restaurant and bar — ideal for relaxing with friends, family, or colleagues after a day out.

Relax & Explore: Stroll the hotel’s beautiful grounds, take in the gardens, or venture into Arundel and nearby coastal towns for shopping, sightseeing, and cultural experiences.