Join one of the country’s leading butterfly experts, Matthew Oates, on one of England’s finest butterfly sites — Newtimber Hill. Sun 23rd July 2017 11:00–14:30. You will need to book as soon as possible if you want to attend this.
Category Archives: Talk
Saddlescombe Orchid walk and talk
Orchid expert Peter Lovett is offering a unique experience at Saddlescombe Farm this year where those interested in orchids as a species can learn more about these amazing plants. Details here.
Tuesday, 20 June 2016 10:30am–1:30pm — early booking essential, 01273 857981. The Wolstonbury orchid safari has already sold out. [Check the times when you book — they are different from last year and may be a mistake.]
The Women’s Land Army — A Sussex Connection
The rescheduled talk by Ian Everest to Henfield History Group at 8:00pm on Tuesday 9th May 2017 in the Free Church Hall, Coopers Way, Henfield. The talk covers the role of women on Sussex farms and their vital contribution to feeding the country during both WWI and WWII. Their efforts only gained official recognition many years after they were disbanded in 1950. The speaker’s mother was one of 80,000 Land Girls during WWII and the talk will include some of her personal memories as a ‘Cinderella of the Soil’.
[GJMG notes: I have attended two different talks by this speaker in recent years. They are among the best local history talks I have heard.]
Saddlescombe Farm Open Day
The National Trust writes:
Tours of the 17th century buildings, the surrounding downs and the walled garden. Displays and demonstrations of traditional work including hurdle making, shepherding, carpenters’ workshop and more. Watch out for newly born lambs and the sheep dog Belle. Tea and home-made cakes available.
Sunday 23rd April, 10:30am–4:00pm, adult £5, child £2, family £13.
An Introduction to the Small Mammals of Sussex
Woods Mill: Friday, 7th April 2017 10:00am–4:00pm
The Women’s Land Army — A Sussex Connection
CHANGE: Ian Everest has had to postpone his talk to Henfield History Group originally scheduled for 8:00pm on Tuesday 10th January 2017 in the Free Church Hall, Coopers Way, Henfield until May this year. In his place, Professor Douglas Chamberlain, an eminent cardiologist who set up the first paramedic course in England, will give a talk on the History of Resuscitation.
Wolstonbury in winter
A guided walk exploring the woods and ancient downland of one of the most remarkable hills on the South Downs. Here you will discover ancient beech trees, a mysterious history and a bizarre lunar landscape created by billions of ants.
Sunday, 15th January 2016, 10:00am — 1:00pm, all tickets £3. Meet at Clayton recreation ground, just off the A273. Children and dogs on leads welcome. Booking essential: call Graham Wellfare, 01273 857712, devilsdyke@nationaltrust.org.uk.
Wreath DIY at Saddlescombe
Create your own Christmas wreath with materials collected from the downs. Take a festive walk and collect your holly and ivy. Return to historic Saddlescombe farm to make your very own Christmas decorations in front of log burning stoves. Mulled apple juice, mince pies and roast chestnuts will be included.
Booking essential. Four sessions available: Monday 19th, Tuesday 20th December 2016, 10:00–12:00, 14:00–16:00; admission £6.00, all ages. More info here.
A Year in Wildlife Photography
A talk by David Plummer to Henfield Birdwatch at 7:30pm on Friday 25th November in Henfield Hall.