Father’s Day

Dads visit for free – Fathers Day, Sunday 21 June.

Enjoy a relaxed day out exploring our beautiful 40-acre site, with free entry for that special father figure in your life*.

• Families visiting the Museum on Father’s Day can explore the historic buildings while enjoying a variety of daily demonstrations across the site, including:
• Heritage Crafts: A Journey Through Flax – Learn about the art of processing flax with heritage craft expert Paul Henry.
• Brewing for Midsummer – Meet food historian Marc Meltonville as he demonstrates 16th-century brewing traditions of Midsummer in the historic Winkhurst Kitchen.
• Meet the 16th Century Pedlar – Discover the life and work of a licensed pedlar and explore the goods they may have sold while travelling from village to village.
• Life in a 17th Century Farmhouse – Step inside Pendean Farmhouse and experience everyday life through historical demonstrations and living history interpretation.
• Beekeeping – Meet members of the Chichester Beekeepers Association and learn about the fascinating world of beekeeping.
• Life in the late 19th Century Railway Cottages – Explore how railway workers and their families may have lived during the Victorian period.
• Meet the Oak King & Fairy Queen – Celebrate the spirit of Midsummer with folklore, storytelling, and family-friendly fun inspired by the longest day of the year.
• Take a Sneak Peek into The Repair Shop – Did you know the Museum is also home to the much-loved television series The Repair Shop? We are delighted to offer Museum visitors the chance to step inside Court Barn on Fathers’ Day.

  

You can also enjoy breakfast, brunch or lunch at our waterside café! With a wonderful selection of hot and cold beverages, light lunches and snacks. Our café is open 9am to 5pm (kitchen closes at 3pm).

“We always love visiting the Weald & Downland Living Museum because there is something for every generation to enjoy. The children love getting hands-on with the activities, while the adults enjoy exploring the historic buildings and learning something new each time we visit. It is such a relaxing and special place to spend time together as a family.” Museum Visitor 2025

 

We suggest that visitors pre-book tickets to guarantee their visit.

How the free Father Figure offer works*

• Free entry is available for one father figure when accompanied by a full-paying visitor (adult, child or family ticket).
• This works like a buy one, get one free offer.
• Please note: Only one free father figure can be claimed with a family ticket, as this is already a discounted ticket.
• When pre-booking, select the “Father Figure – Sunday 21 June” ticket (found at the bottom of the ticket list).
• This offer is not valid in conjunction with any other offer or free ticket.

Museum Members

• Entry is included with your Membership — no need to pre-book.
• Members may bring one father figure as a free guest to visit with them.

 

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Information for Visitors

Discover 40 acres of history, nature, and countryside charm at the Weald & Downland Living Museum near Chichester, West Sussex. Explore our collection of historic buildings, working farm animals, and heritage gardens, and experience what rural life was like in centuries past.

Come Rain or Shine You Can Explore and Enjoy

Stroll through our beautiful open-air museum, where you can see authentic period homes, workshops, and barns set within the stunning South Downs landscape. Enjoy peaceful woodland walks, spot wildlife, or visit the woodland play area — perfect for children to explore and learn through play.

Meet Our Working Animals

Look out for our Heavy Horses, Sheep, and Ducks, who help bring the Museum to life. Visitors can even feed the ducks on the mill pond — grain can be purchased in the Museum shop.

Relax and Refuel

Take a break at our waterside café, serving delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. You’re also welcome to bring a picnic, with plenty of scenic spots around the site to enjoy. During the warmer months, Shepherd’s Hut kiosks offer takeaway drinks and snacks around the Museum.

Useful Visitor Information

• Dogs on short leads are very welcome across the site.
• Free parking is available for all visitors.
• Please note: the Museum is a no-smoking site.
• Visitors with accessibility needs can find detailed information on our Accessibility page.

Please note that all activities and demonstrations are subject to change and may vary depending on the weather or season.

All activities are subject to change.