Father’s Day

Dads* Go Free this Fathers’ day Weekend – Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 June.

Try something. Fix something. Discover something. Pass it on.

 

This Father’s Day weekend, say thank you with more than words. Come down for a day every kind of Dad can make their own, with moments to share now and memories to pass on later.

For the ones who think some things are worth saving

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.

 

For the ones who like to get stuck in

Visit our rural trades and crafts area  and see our crafts people in action and learn about the traditional heritage craft. Visit our working watermill and see our flour being produced – which you can buy in the shop, and try something delicious from our bakehouse.

 

For the ones who like to get outside

See our working animals, wander through the historic gardens and explore the woodland and open spaces.

 

For the ones who like a good story

Explore around our historic building, find out about the working lives of our ancestors and hear stories of the past.  You can also visit our new exhibition – Richard Cobden: Sussex Free Trade Campaigner 

 

For the ones that are hard to buy for

Take a look inside our Museum gift shop where we have a wide range of locally sourced items, hand made gifts and sweet treats. You can also find out about our Museum Memberships where you can come back unlimited times for 12 months, a great way to create family memories to cherish.

 

For the ones that like something good to eat

Visit our Museum café, where along with our daily menu we will have cream teas on special just for Fathers’ Day

 

“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

 

Book online and save!

Book now

 

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 – Saturday 20 & 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.

 

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.