Events
Are you looking for something to do with your friends and family in your local area this spring/summer/autumn?
The Sunset Survey (April – October) brings you a perfect opportunity to get together with family/friends and discover bats and other wildlife in your local area. This is ideal for you if you don’t have previous bat surveying experience. Just spend an hour from sunset (or before sunrise) and let us know what you see/hear from your window, balcony, garden or local green space.
See how to take part and submit your sightings here.
Help track the UK’s declining House Martin population by taking part in this citizen science survey. Participants are asked to record nesting sites and breeding activity during the 2026 season, contributing valuable data to support conservation work and better understand population changes.
No prior experience is needed, and observations can be submitted from anywhere in Sussex and beyond.
Find out more and how to take part here.
The Stag Beetle Count is a citizen science survey that helps track populations of one of Britain’s most iconic insects. By recording sightings of stag beetles, participants contribute valuable data that helps conservationists understand where the species is found and how its numbers are changing.
Taking part is simple. Spend around 30 minutes on a warm evening watching for stag beetles in your garden or along a short walking route, then submit your observations online. Even a single sighting can help improve our understanding of this remarkable species.
Find out more and take part:
https://stagbeetles.ptes.org/stag-beetle-count/
Take part in the Willow Emerald Watch citizen science project by helping to monitor the spread of the Willow Emerald Damselfly across the UK. Learn how to identify this distinctive species and recognise the signs of breeding, including characteristic egg-laying scars on waterside trees. Participants are encouraged to record and submit sightings, contributing valuable data that supports research into the species’ distribution, population growth and conservation, while helping scientists better understand its continued expansion into new areas.
Find out more and how to get involved here.
The Big Butterfly Count is a nationwide citizen science survey aimed at helping us assess the health of our environment. It was launched in 2010 and has rapidly become the world’s biggest survey of butterflies.
The Big Butterfly Count 2026 reopens on the 1st of July ready for the main event between the 17th of July and 9th of August.
Simply count butterflies for 15 minutes during bright (preferably sunny) weather during the Big Butterfly Count. We have chosen this time of year because most butterflies are at the adult stage of their lifecycle, so more likely to be seen. Records are welcome from anywhere: from parks, school grounds and gardens, to fields and forests.
For more information and how to participate, click here.
National Whale and Dolphin Watch is a 9-day citizen science event dedicated to studying and protecting cetaceans in UK waters.
Preliminary Dates: Saturday 25th July to Sunday 2nd August 2026
Watches and surveys will be taking place across the country to create a ‘snapshot’ view of what can be seen in our UK coastal waters. The data collected during this event will enable us to develop an idea of the distribution of whales, dolphins and porpoises around the UK. This event is a great opportunity for everyone to become involved in the research which goes into understanding and protecting these magnificent creatures.
For more information and how to get involved, click here.
Learn simple ways to connect, relax and engage in the natural world. Weather you are a parent, caregiver or are someone looking to unwind and boost wellbeing, spend time in the gardens exploring and making new connections, with breathing and reflection exercises all designed to help people connect with nature with wellbeing at it’s core.
We particularly welcome individuals who may be experiencing mental health challenges, are from under-served communities or have limited experience of engaging with nature.
Sunday 26th July
Saturday 15th August
Sunday 20th September
10:30am – 1pm & 2pm – 4:30pm
Free transport to and from Haywards Heath station. Free entry and parking. For more information or to book, email us at wakehurstcommunity@kew.org
Nr Haywards Heath, RH17 6TN United Kingdom
Join the Youth Action team and RSPB staff for a practical conservation volunteering day helping to remove invasive Himalayan balsam from the reserve. Participants will learn why this non-native plant threatens local biodiversity and take part in pulling it up by hand to allow native plants to thrive. This is a great opportunity to contribute to habitat restoration, support wildlife conservation, and work alongside like-minded people in an outdoor environment. Suitable for anyone with an interest in nature, with transport and lunch expenses reimbursed where appropriate.
Find out more and book your place here.
Wiggonholt, West Sussex RH20 2EL United Kingdom
Take part in a guided, hands-on craft workshop to create your own toad abode, designed to provide a cool, sheltered habitat for toads and frogs in your garden. Led by Kirsty from Make, Do and Trend, the session includes all materials and step-by-step instructions, with plenty of opportunity to get creative while learning how simple garden features can help support local amphibians. Suitable for adults and children aged five and over, with children accompanied by an adult.
Find out more and see which sessions are available here.
Join People’s Park for Nature for an inspiring talk and guided nature walk exploring the Lovebrook landscape in search of birds, butterflies and wildflowers.
The event begins with an introduction to the People’s Park for Nature movement, a growing collaboration of local organisations, businesses and individuals working together to restore nature, improve access to green spaces and encourage deeper connections with the natural world. Since its beginnings, the initiative has expanded to include more than 40 sites across over 1,000 acres, supporting community projects, arts initiatives and habitat restoration.
Following the talk, participants will enjoy a relaxed walk around Lovebrook Farm, discovering local wildlife and learning more about the area’s rich natural environment. Suitable for all ages, this event offers a wonderful opportunity to spend time outdoors, connect with nature and be inspired by a community-led approach to protecting and enhancing local landscapes.
Lewes, East Sussex BN7 3NT United Kingdom
Have you ever wondered what’s in the soil under your feet? We’ll be taking a look at what soil health means and how to test soil to see how healthy it actually is.
Find out more and book your place here.
A screening of the National Emergency Briefing, a film exploring the climate and nature crisis facing Britain, the evidence behind the challenges we face, and the solutions that can help create a more resilient future.
The film will be followed by an informal discussion, providing an opportunity to share thoughts, ask questions, and reflect on the issues raised.
Drinks and other refreshments will be available during the evening.
Find out more and book your place here.
Brighton, East Sussex BN45 7AF United Kingdom
Join Friends of Shoreham Beach Local Nature Reserve for a fun, family friendly morning exploring the wildlife of Shoreham Beach. Search the strandline for fascinating natural treasures, bring your discoveries for experts to identify, and get up close to the small marine creatures living along the shoreline in interactive wildlife tanks. Learn about the unique plants, animals and coastal habitats that make Shoreham Beach such a special place for wildlife.
Entry is free for Friends of Shoreham Beach Local Nature Reserve members and their families, or £2 per person for non members, with the option to become a member on the day. Refreshments are available nearby, or you are welcome to bring a picnic. Please check the organiser’s website or social media before travelling in case of poor weather.
Shoreham, BN43 5HY
Exceat, East Sussex BN25 4AD United Kingdom
An eye-opening 50 minute film with nine leading UK scientists and experts and the latest evidence on the climate and nature crisis.
Join Lancing Parish Council for a free screening of The People’s Emergency Briefing, an eye-opening film that brings together leading UK climate and nature scientists, experts and well-known voices to explain the latest evidence on the climate and nature crisis and what it means for all of us.
Featuring Chris Packham, Jennifer Saunders, leading climate and nature scientists, and other expert contributors, the film takes a refreshingly honest look at where we are heading and, importantly, what can still be done to change course.
Following the screening, there will be a short, informal community discussion facilitated by the Chair of Lancing Parish Council, Denyse Whillier, exploring what these issues mean for our local area and how we can work together to respond. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet local environmental organisations, learn about the work they are doing in Lancing, and find out how you can get involved.
Refreshments will be available after the film, so you are welcome to stay for a drink, a slice of cake and a chat.
Lancing, BN15 8AJ
Concerned about nature loss, extreme weather, or what action can be taken? This 45-minute film shares the latest evidence on the climate and nature crisis from leading experts who presented at the National Emergency Briefing in Westminster.
Combining expert insight with personal reflections, the film explores the challenges we face, the opportunities for positive change, and why collective action matters. The screening will be followed by a guided discussion, offering space to reflect, ask questions, and explore solutions together.
Find out more here.
Worthing, West Sussex BN11 2DB United Kingdom
Join Sussex Wildlife Trust for a free screening of the National Emergency Briefing followed by discussion.
The UK faces a growing climate and nature emergency. Yet most people have never been fully briefed on what it means for our lives, our economy and our future.
This new film from the National Emergency Briefing sets out the risks facing the nation – and the credible, positive responses available – in a clear and accessible account designed for screenings in communities across the UK.
This event is hosted by Sussex Wildlife Trust’s Youth Rangers who will facilitate a discussion before and after the screening.
Popcorn & ice cream will be available to buy during the screening but cash only please!
More refreshments available from the cafe.
This is a free event but booking in advance is essential.
Doors open: 10.45, Film Screening: 11.00
Rye Harbour, East Sussex TN31 7FW United Kingdom
The Creating Healthy Active Environments Webinar looks at improving active spaces for people and nature.
This free online webinar on Wednesday, September 2, 7-8pm is for Sussex clubs, organisations and greenspace managers.
Active Sussex has teamed up with experts from The Knepp Wildland Foundation’s Weald to Waves project to bring you this free webinar.
Why attend?
- Understand the importance of improving the environmental sustainability of your space and how it can create wider benefits for your club or organisation.
- Learn from experts at Weald to Waves on how to boost biodiversity in your space and become part of something much bigger
- Hear a Sussex sport club’s sustainability journey and the positive impact of their changes
- Discover further resources and support to guide you in implementing this in your space
A five-week journey that brings people together to explore the power of sound, nature, and Wakehurst’s unique landscapes.
Each weekly two-hour session includes a gentle walk, creative music-making, and moments of mindfulness, while also offering opportunities to learn about our horticulture, seasonal changes, and the science behind the wild places we care for. No musical experience is needed – everyone’s welcome to take part.
These sessions are designed especially for Community Access Scheme members, community groups, and individuals seeking to boost their wellbeing and connect with nature.
For more information and how to register click here Wakehurst Nature Notes Poster 2026.
What does the climate and nature crisis mean for everyday life in Britain, and how can we respond?
The National Emergency Briefing is a powerful film exploring the evidence behind the challenges we face, from threats to food, security, and the natural world, while highlighting the solutions and opportunities for meaningful action.
Following the screening, a panel of experts and campaigners will discuss what needs to happen next, the resources and people needed to drive change, and the human challenges of coming together to tackle this crisis.
An evening of film, conversation, and collective thinking about the future we want to create.
Find out more and book your place here.
Hailsham, East Sussex BN27 4QR United Kingdom
Have you heard of Citizen Science? Would you like to know what it means and why it’s important for the natural world? Why not join us to find out what citizen scientists do and how it’s helping us to understand the world around us.
Find out more and book your place here.