
South of England Showground
A versatile venue hosting diverse events from antique fairs and craft markets to equestrian shows and seasonal festivals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Varies by event, check schedule

South of England Showground
Best Time
Varies by event, check schedule
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A versatile venue hosting diverse events from antique fairs and craft markets to equestrian shows and seasonal festivals.
"Great days out for the whole family, lots to look at and plenty of cover for rainy days."

🎟️ Book Antiques Fair Early
Wednesday tickets for the Ardingly Antiques Fair are cheaper online. Grab them before they're gone!
🧥 Dress for the Weather
The showground can be exposed. Be prepared for wind and rain, especially during outdoor events.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ardingly International Antiques Fair
South of England Showground
Discover a vast array of antique and vintage treasures from hundreds of stalls. A must-visit for collectors and bargain hunters.

Winter Market & Wellbeing Events
South of England Showground
Get into the festive spirit with unique Christmas gifts, handmade crafts, and holistic wellbeing activities. Perfect for early holiday shopping.

Equestrian Events
South of England Showground
Witness thrilling horse trials and equestrian competitions. A fantastic day out for horse lovers and families alike.

Spring Live Festival
South of England Showground
Experience exciting lawnmower racing and a variety of other attractions. A fun-filled event for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Check Event Schedules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Antiques Fair Early
Wednesday tickets for the Ardingly Antiques Fair are cheaper online. Grab them before they're gone!
🧥 Dress for the Weather
The showground can be exposed. Be prepared for wind and rain, especially during outdoor events.
🚗 Ample Free Parking
Parking is generally plentiful and free, making arrival easy.
🛍️ Shop Small & Local
Many events feature local makers and unique gifts. Support small businesses!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Antiques Fair Early
Wednesday tickets for the Ardingly Antiques Fair are cheaper online. Grab them before they're gone!
🧥 Dress for the Weather
The showground can be exposed. Be prepared for wind and rain, especially during outdoor events.
🚗 Ample Free Parking
Parking is generally plentiful and free, making arrival easy.
🛍️ Shop Small & Local
Many events feature local makers and unique gifts. Support small businesses!
🪑 Bring Your Own Seating
For some events, seating can be limited. Bringing your own chairs is recommended.
💰 Consider Food Costs
Food vendors can be pricey. Bringing your own snacks or a picnic is a good option.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise the South of England Showground for its clean grounds, helpful staff, and the variety of events hosted. Positive feedback highlights educational enactments, engaging authors, and enjoyable entertainment. However, some events suffer from long queues at food outlets and high prices, which can detract from the experience for some families.
"Everyone made an effort to be nice and civil. Friday and Saturday unfortunately a lot of wind. Despite the weather which picked up everyone was upbeat. Very clean grounds and kept that way all weekend. Security was fab and very helpful. In fact some went beyond the call of duty helping my disabled neighbour, thank you so much. Food was plentiful and reasonably priced. Enactments were educational and love the way they engage with the audience. Some first class author's who are more than happy to indulge in conversation.
Had friends come down Saturday and Sunday who loved the weekend.
Singing entertainment by Fiona was not only lovely, but took me back to many childhood memories with her choice of songs. Loved the many outfits she wore. Hope to see you again next year.
I had a very chilled weekend and everyone seemed relaxed and laid back.
It was a pleasure to talk to Jo and his daughter Abigail about their birds of pray. And a big thank you to the author Rupert Wieloch who moved me emotionally with his stories about our troops. Who book iv started to enjoy reading " Churchill's Abandoned Prisoners." Thank you for the excellent work of research you put into your work. We know the first casualties of War is the truth. I never realised its also one of the lasts.
Thank you to all those who gave your time and knowledge.
Sarah and Steve are doing a great job.
Hope this event is around for a long time to come and keeps growing."
Fred Washington
"Fireworks Funfair Food and Queues
Free parking
Funfair
Different food outlets all under staffed and ridiculous Queues, 45 mins for the usual burger and chips and same for hot drinks, stall holders told 2k attendance when infact 6k attendance.
Food prices £7.50 for an iced latte no thank you and £15 for basic burger and chips not that great. All this doesn't include that a family of 4 £45 entry ticket, advanced booking tickets £12 instead of £15. Fireworks low noise over in 5 minutes however main event Fireworks pretty impressive so that saved the day . Would i go again not unless Food outlets and Queues are sorted out with a seating option and a better choice of food healthier options or local produce would make this event more appealing."
Mandy Franklin
"Attended the Ford classic car show. Really good venue with food and clean toilets.
Plenty of parking when you drive in.
Worth the travel down.
The show its self was amazing with all the old skool cars.. really wish I could afford one 😂"
Hardeep Panesar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The South of England Showground is located in Ardingly, West Sussex (RH17 6TL). It's easily accessible by car, with ample free parking available. For public transport, you can take a train to Haywards Heath or East Grinstead and then a taxi or local bus service to the showground.
Yes, there is plenty of free parking available at the South of England Showground for visitors attending events. Signage on the approach roads helps guide you to the parking areas.
While driving is the most convenient, you can reach the showground via public transport. The nearest train stations are Haywards Heath and East Grinstead. From there, you'll need to arrange a taxi or check local bus routes that service the showground.
Yes, the showground is generally well-signposted on the approach roads, making it relatively easy to find by car.
The South of England Showground is approximately one hour's drive from London, making it a feasible day trip destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for most events can be purchased online in advance through the official South of England Showground website or the specific event organizer's website. This is often cheaper than buying on the day.
Yes, advance booking often comes with discounts, especially for popular events like the Antiques Fair. Some events also offer early bird specials.
Opening hours vary significantly depending on the event. It's crucial to check the specific event details on the showground's website or the organizer's page for accurate timings.
In most cases, tickets are available for purchase on the day of the event, but it's advisable to book in advance to secure your spot and potentially save money.
For most general events, children under a certain age (often under 16) are admitted free or at a reduced rate. Always check the specific event's terms and conditions for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The showground hosts a wide variety of events, including antique and vintage fairs, craft markets, agricultural shows, equestrian competitions, music festivals, and seasonal fairs like the Winter Fair.
Yes, most events offer a range of food and drink outlets. However, some visitors note that queues can be long and prices can be high, so bringing your own food is an option.
The showground generally strives to be accessible. Some visitors have reported excellent assistance from security and staff for disabled neighbors. It's always best to contact the event organizer in advance if you have specific accessibility needs.
Facilities typically include clean toilets, catering outlets, and often seating areas, though bringing your own seating is recommended for some events.
Dog policies can vary by event. For specific events like agricultural shows or equestrian trials, dogs may be permitted, but for others, they might not be. Always check the event's specific rules regarding pets.
📸 📸 Photography
The showground offers diverse photo opportunities, from the vast displays at antique fairs and the festive decorations at winter markets to the action of equestrian events and unique racing at the Spring Live Festival. Capture the atmosphere of the crowds and the details of the stalls.
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. However, professional photography or videography may require prior permission. Always check event-specific guidelines.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing a range of shots from wide scenes to details. A telephoto lens can be useful for equestrian events. Don't forget a wide-angle lens for capturing the scale of fairs.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for photography. However, the vibrant atmosphere during peak hours can also yield great shots, especially at markets and fairs.
It's always polite to ask vendors for permission before taking close-up photos of their products or stalls. Many are happy to oblige, especially if you mention you're sharing on social media.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for seasonal events like the Winter Fair which often have activities geared towards children, such as face painting. While food can be pricey, bringing your own snacks and drinks can help manage costs. Consider bringing a picnic blanket or portable chairs for comfort during longer events.
🛍️ Bargain Hunters & Collectors
Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, as many vendors are open to offers. Checking for advance ticket discounts can also save you money, allowing more budget for your finds.
🚗 Day-Trippers from London
Plan your visit around a specific event that appeals to you. Consider packing a picnic to save on food costs and maximize your time exploring the showground.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ardingly Antiques Fair
Tips for navigating the fair include arriving early, especially on weekdays, to get the best selection and avoid the biggest crowds. Consider purchasing tickets in advance, as Wednesday tickets can be cheaper online for a limited time. Be prepared to haggle, as prices are often negotiable. It's also a good idea to bring cash, although many vendors may accept card payments.
This fair is a fantastic opportunity to discover unique pieces for your home or collection. The sheer scale of the event means there's something for every taste and budget, making it a truly exciting shopping experience.
Seasonal Events and Festive Cheer
Beyond shopping, these events often include uplifting wellbeing activities and a festive atmosphere, making them a delightful way to kick off the season. Visitors have praised the festive faces painted at the Winter Show and the general Christmas spirit. Remember to check the dates for these popular seasonal events, as they are typically held in November and December.
These markets are not just about shopping; they are about experiencing the joy of the season. From sparkling jewelry to cosy home goodies, the variety ensures there's something to delight everyone.
Equestrian Pursuits at Ardingly
These equestrian gatherings often feature various disciplines, providing a comprehensive display of the sport. The atmosphere is typically energetic and engaging, with opportunities to learn more about the horses and riders.
Attending an equestrian event here offers a glimpse into the world of competitive horse riding and is a great way to spend a day outdoors, enjoying the athleticism and dedication involved.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit