Leeds Castle, often called “the loveliest castle in the world”, is a jewel set in the picturesque Kent countryside. Surrounded by a sparkling moat and framed by 500 acres of parkland and gardens, the castle offers a breathtaking first impression that only grows richer as you explore its grounds. With over 900 years of history, Leeds Castle has been home to medieval queens, Tudor monarchs, and even a glamorous 20th-century heiress, giving it a fascinating legacy that blends romance, power, and elegance.

Hastings Pride 2025 was nothing short of a spectacular celebration, marking a monumental moment in the town’s history of LGBTQ+ inclusion and visibility. The seaside town was transformed into a riot of color and energy, with locals and visitors alike joining forces to honor love, unity, and diversity. This year’s Pride was a remarkable reflection of how far the community had come, blending the joyous festival atmosphere with deep reflection on the ongoing journey for LGBTQ+ equality.

On the 24th of July I attended an open day at the Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden, Kent. It was a special sensory-inclusive open day, which was perfect for me as I'm Autistic and can struggle with being in big, noisy crowds. The Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden, Kent, is a 32-acre haven for endangered and rescued wild cats, located near Ashford in the heart of the Kent countryside.

Hardwick Hall, nestled in the rolling countryside of Derbyshire, stands as one of the most impressive and best-preserved examples of Elizabethan architecture in England. Commissioned by the formidable Elizabeth, Countess of Shrewsbury—better known as Bess of Hardwick—this grand house was constructed between 1590 and 1597 as a bold display of her immense wealth and social power. The hall’s most iconic feature is its extraordinary use of glass; vast windows dominate the façade, giving rise to the phrase “Hardwick Hall, more glass than wall.” At a time when glass was an expensive luxury, its abundance at Hardwick was a visible symbol of prestige and prosperity, making the house a remarkable statement of Renaissance style and ambition.

The Battle Medieval Fayre is a truly enchanting celebration of history, heritage, and hearty merriment, held in the storied town of Battle — a place forever marked by the thunder of 1066. Each year, this beloved event breathes life into the past, welcoming visitors of all ages to step into a world where time stands still and the medieval spirit reigns supreme.

Hark! Gather ye round, good gentles all, and lend thine ears to a most wondrous telling of the Battle Medieval Fayre, a grand festivity where time turneth back, and chivalry doth live anew! Each year, within the historic hamlet of Battle, where once great armies clashed and history was writ in steel and flame, the townsfolk and merry travellers alike dost don their finest garb and make merry in celebration of days of yore.

WynterCon Comic-Con in Eastbourne is a celebration like no other — a fun-filled, family-friendly event that brings together fans of sci-fi, fantasy, comics, gaming, and cosplay under one welcoming roof. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and inclusive spirit, WynterCon proudly lives by the motto: “It doesn’t matter what world you come from, you’re welcome in ours.” Whether you're a seasoned cosplayer, a lifelong comic collector, or just curious about the world of fandom, WynterCon offers something special for everyone.

Welcome to WynterCon – the ultimate celebration of imagination, creativity, and fandom! This much-loved multi-genre cosplay convention began in Eastbourne and quickly grew into one of the South Coast’s most exciting events for fans of all things sci-fi, fantasy, comics, gaming, and beyond. At WynterCon, everyone is welcome. The event’s inspiring motto, “It doesn’t matter what world you come from, you’re welcome in ours,”

Wyntercon Comic-Con is a vibrant, high-energy convention that celebrates all things pop culture, uniting fans from around the world in a shared love for comics, movies, television, gaming, anime, and more. It's a place where imagination thrives, creativity is celebrated, and fandom comes alive in the most exciting and inclusive way possible. At its heart, Wyntercon Comic-Con is a community experience.

Sussex Comic-Con is a spectacular celebration of pop culture that brings together fans, creators, and celebrities in an energetic, inclusive, and creatively charged environment. Whether you’re passionate about comic books, movies, TV shows, anime, cosplay, or gaming, Sussex Comic-Con offers something for everyone. These events are known for their electrifying atmosphere, where like-minded fans come together to share their love of storytelling and imagination.

Get ready to unleash your imagination — because WynterCon is the kind of convention where magic, mischief, and multiverses collide in the most spectacular way! Once a beloved fixture in Eastbourne, this multi-genre cosplay convention brought together fans of sci-fi, fantasy, comics, gaming, and everything in between for an unforgettable weekend of pure geeky joy. WynterCon was never just an event; it was an experience.

Get ready for a weekend of magic, imagination, and pure joy at WynterCon — Sussex’s most exciting celebration of geek culture! This much-loved annual convention brings together fans of sci-fi, fantasy, comics, gaming, and cosplay in a friendly, family-focused atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to be themselves. WynterCon’s inspiring motto, “It doesn’t matter what world you come from, you’re welcome in ours,”

WynterCon is a vibrant and inspiring cosplay and pop culture convention that has become a much-loved event for fans across the South Coast. Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and creative energy, WynterCon offers a safe and inclusive space where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can express themselves, celebrate their fandoms, and connect with like-minded people. From its imaginative cosplay competitions to hands-on workshops and dazzling exhibits, WynterCon is a feast for the senses.

Scotney Castle in Kent is a magical destination where history, architecture, and nature come together in perfect harmony. Tucked away in the scenic Bewl Valley near Lamberhurst, this enchanting National Trust property offers a unique blend of charm and heritage. At its heart lie the romantic ruins of a 14th-century moated castle, beautifully preserved and set amidst stunning gardens. Nearby, a grand Victorian mansion, crafted in the elegant Tudor Revival style, adds a stately touch to the landscape.

WynterCon is a magical, family-friendly celebration of cosplay, creativity, and pop culture that has captured the hearts of thousands since it first launched in Eastbourne in 2014. A cherished highlight in the town’s cultural calendar, this one-of-a-kind convention offers a welcoming and inclusive space where fans of all ages and backgrounds come together to celebrate everything from fantasy and science fiction to gaming and imaginative arts.

Brighton Comic Con and Gaming Festival 2023, held on June 10 at the iconic American Express Community Stadium, was an unforgettable explosion of fun, fandom, and fantasy! Pop culture lovers of all ages gathered under one roof to celebrate everything from comics and TV to gaming and cosplay, creating an electric atmosphere buzzing with excitement. The guest lineup was a dream come true for film and TV fans.

Hastings Pride: A Seaside Celebration of Love, Diversity, and Community Hastings Gay Pride is one of the South Coast’s most joyful and inclusive events — a vibrant, community-led celebration of LGBTQ+ pride, identity, and unity. Set in the heart of this creative seaside town, Hastings Pride welcomes everyone to come together, show their colours, and share in a truly unforgettable day of love and celebration.

Hastings Pride Parade is a fabulous splash of colour, love, and joy on the sunny (sometimes rainy!) shores of East Sussex. Every year since 2016, the vibrant seaside town of Hastings has thrown open its arms and rolled out the rainbow carpet for this dazzling, free celebration of diversity, unity, and pride. 2024 brought a little drama and a whole lot of heart.

Adult soap box derbies are thrilling, community-driven events that combine creativity, engineering, and pure fun into an unforgettable experience. Designed for grown-ups who still love a good race and a great laugh, these derbies invite participants to build gravity-powered cars and compete in friendly, adrenaline-filled downhill challenges. Whether you're a seasoned maker or just looking for a unique weekend adventure, adult soap box racing offers something for everyone.

Welcome to Hastings Pride — Where Love Meets the Sea! Hastings Gay Pride is one of the South Coast’s most joyful and inclusive celebrations — a vibrant festival of love, identity, and community set in the heart of our beautiful seaside town. Bursting with colour, music, and positive energy, it’s a free, family-friendly event where everyone is welcome and celebrated.

Hastings Gay Pride is a joyful explosion of colour, music, and community spirit — a truly unforgettable celebration by the sea! Held in the heart of this creative coastal town, it’s a free, inclusive event where everyone is welcome to be exactly who they are. The day kicks off with a high-energy parade through the streets of Hastings, filled with fabulous floats, dazzling costumes, and the beat of uplifting music.

Hastings Gay Pride is the ultimate seaside celebration of love, diversity, and pure, unapologetic joy — and it’s calling your name! Set against the vibrant backdrop of this quirky, creative coastal town, Hastings Pride brings people of all walks of life together for a weekend bursting with color, music, and fabulous energy. This isn’t just any Pride — it’s Pride with a salty breeze, glitter on the beach, and a whole lot of heart.

Hastings Gay Pride is a vibrant, joyful celebration of love, diversity, and community spirit on the beautiful south coast of England. Held every summer, this free, inclusive event transforms the seaside town of Hastings into a colorful festival of unity, where people of all identities come together to celebrate LGBTQ+ pride with open hearts and big smiles. The Pride Parade is the highlight of the day, winding through the town in a sea of rainbow flags, dazzling costumes, and upbeat music.

Hastings Gay Pride is a bold and beautiful celebration of love, identity, and community. Held on the stunning south coast of England, it brings together thousands of people every year to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community and celebrate everything that makes us unique, powerful, and proud. From the joyful energy of the parade to the inclusive atmosphere of the festival, Hastings Pride is a day of unity, laughter, visibility, and freedom.

Hastings Gay Pride is more than just a celebration — it's a vibrant, defiant, and joyful declaration of love, identity, and community. Nestled on the stunning Sussex coast, Hastings transforms each year into a beacon of color and pride, welcoming thousands of LGBTQ+ people and allies to unite in visibility and solidarity. From its grassroots beginnings, Hastings Pride has grown into a dynamic festival of expression and empowerment.