Midhurst is a town that changes with the seasons. From spring bluebells and village fetes to summer festivals, autumn pumpkin trails and cosy winter markets, every time of year brings something different to discover in the heart of the South Downs National Park.
Whether you’re planning a weekend away, looking for family adventures or simply wondering when to visit, here’s what you can expect throughout the year in and around Midhurst.
Spring (March to May)
As the South Downs wake from winter, Midhurst comes alive with blossom, bluebell woods and the return of outdoor life.
Spring marks the beginning of the polo season at Cowdray, Easter trails and family activities, and the start of the village fete season across the surrounding villages.
Longer days and quieter footpaths make this one of the best times of year for walking, cycling and exploring the countryside.
Highlights
- Easter activities and trails
- Cowdray spring events
- Bluebell woods
- Medieval Festival
- Village fetes begin
- Polo season starts
Summer
Summer is festival season in Midhurst.
The town and surrounding villages host a packed calendar of music festivals, village fetes and outdoor events, while Cowdray Polo attracts visitors from around the world.
Long evenings, pub gardens and outdoor dining make summer one of the liveliest times to visit.
Highlights (June to August)
- Cowdray Gold Cup
- Festival of Speed
- Oakfest
- MADhurst
- Village fetes
- West’s Wood Fair
- Pub gardens and outdoor dining
Autumn
Many locals would argue this is Midhurst’s finest season.
The South Downs turn gold and bronze as the area comes alive with harvest celebrations, pumpkin patches, bonfires and some of the region’s biggest events.
Goodwood Revival, Rogate Pumpkin Patch and the Midhurst Jazz, Food and Blues Festival all help make autumn particularly special.
Highlights
- Goodwood Revival
- Rogate Pumpkin Patch
- Cowdray autumn events
- Heyshott Bonfire
- Midhurst Jazz, Food and Blues Festival
- Woodland walks and autumn colours
Winter
Winter transforms Midhurst into a traditional market town Christmas destination.
Christmas markets, lights, carol services and roaring fires create a very different atmosphere from the busy summer months.
It’s the perfect season for cosy weekends away, festive shopping and winter walks across the South Downs.
Highlights
- Christmas Street Party
- Christmas markets
- Carol services
- Cosy pubs and cafés
- Winter walks
- Festive events
Major Annual Events
| Month | Major Events | |
|---|---|---|
 | April | Medieval Festival |
 | June | West’s Wood Fair |
 | July | Goodwood Festival of Speed Cowdray Gold Cup |
 | August | MADhurst Oakfest Summer Street Party |
 | September | Goodwood Revival |
 | October | Rogate Pumpkin Patch |
 | November | Midhurst Jazz, Food & Blues Festival |
 | December | Christmas Street Party |
Festival of Speed image © original photographer, used under Creative Commons licence.