The Great Escape from Black Friday – 28 Nov to 1 Dec

Friday 28 November to Monday 1 December

Step away from the rush and clamour of high street sales and join us for a more peaceful, festive and inspiring experience in the heart of the South Downs countryside. Over this Black Friday weekend (28 Nov – 1 Dec), entry to the Museum is 50% off for all visitors – the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature, explore our historic buildings, and enjoy seasonal traditions brought to life.

 

What Awaits You This Weekend:

On Friday 28 November, the Museum comes alive with stories and demonstrations that show the rhythms of everyday life in centuries past. In the Gateway Gallery, visitors can delve into the details of a 16th-century housewife’s daily life as one of our volunteers reveals the curious and essential items she might have carried at her waist or in her purse. Just a short stroll away, the Winkhurst Tudor Kitchen crackles with activity as traditional household chores are re-enacted beside the open hearth, bringing the sights, sounds, and smells of Tudor domestic life vividly to life. Meanwhile, over at Whittaker’s Cottages, guests can step into the heart of Victorian England and discover what life was like for working families in the 19th century.

Saturday 29 November marks the beginning of our seasonal journey into Advent. In the Winkhurst Kitchen, preparations for the coming festivities are underway, with traditional Tudor recipes taking shape before your eyes. Tindall’s Cottage offers a different slice of history, where renowned food historian Marc Meltonville presents a fascinating demonstration of 18th-century Christmas fare, sharing stories and methods from Georgian kitchens. Adding to the festive spirit, a traditional Mummers Play will be performed in the Market Square, offering lively entertainment in the age-old style of rustic theatre.

The celebration of Advent continues on Sunday 30 November, with even more to see, taste, and discover. Bayleaf Farmhouse buzzes with activity as the Yeoman Farmer tends to his winter labours, providing insight into rural life in Tudor times. In Tindall’s Cottage, Marc Meltonville returns to share more culinary delights from the Georgian era. And in Whittaker’s Cottages, families are invited to observe and participate in Stir-up Sunday, a cherished Victorian tradition marking the start of Christmas pudding and cake making, as homes prepared for the festive weeks ahead.

 

Reconnect. Discover. Enjoy.

Whether you are drawn to the comforting crackle of open fires, the evocative smells of historic kitchens, or the joy of discovering forgotten crafts, this is the perfect time to visit.

• Reconnect with nature: Stroll through the wintry landscape and observe the quiet beauty of the season.
• Discover history: Step inside our lovingly restored historic homes and workshops.
• Shop unique gifts: Browse our Museum shop for locally crafted and traditional gifts, ideal for the festive season.
• Bring the whole family: 50% off admission makes this an affordable and memorable day out for all ages.

 

Enjoy a seasonal hot drink, a cheeky Bailey’s hot chocolate or a hearty meal at our Café, with options for all the family.

Escape the chaos. Embrace the past.

 

Book Your Half-Price Tickets Now and enjoy a truly unique experience this Black Friday weekend at the Weald & Downland Living Museum.

 

Book now

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.