The first month of the year can seem bleak after the exuberance of Christmas but, fear not, we have some suggestions to make your January in Sussex lighter and brighter.
Getting Outside
Even on days of inclement weather there is a joy in getting outside, layering up in waterproofs and heading out to the countryside. At the very least experiencing the bracing fresh air makes the comfort of home much more enjoyable. But that's not all it offers. It's also a delightful time for bird watching, the bare boughs of the trees makes it easy to spot even the most timid birds and down by the shore winter migrating wading birds can be seen in their hundreds. The Chichester Harbour Conservancy runs expertly guided boat tours throughout the year.
Watch birds of prey wheel overhead and vast flocks of geese honk across the sky. There's a simple joy in watching wildlife, tuning into the environment you're in is relaxing and all encompassing. If you have children with you, it keeps them entertained too and you can make a game of walking quietly and seeing how close you can get to the deer or birds. If they don't go for that there will always be puddles to jump in! There are also a few days in January where the cold abates and the sun shines. Those days have magical sunsets, head to the beach with a warm drink and enjoy the radiant sky.
Artistic Appreciation
The Pallant Gallery in Chichester is running an exhibition titled Sussex Landscape, Chalk, Wood & Water. It's an exploration of the iconic scenery of Sussex and a beautiful way to connect with the landscape through the vision of artists from Turner & Constable to modern artists experimenting with photography, digital art & sculpture.
Chamber music is celebrated this month by the Kaleidoscope Chamber Collective on the 26th January at the Assembly Rooms. With music that you know from the likes of Brahms to the premiere of a new work by British composer Mark Simpson. Booking is advised. There are monthly Chamber concerts featuring fabulous musicians during the winter. Another taste of classical music can be heard at Chichester Cathedral's free lunch time concert on the 31st of January with Caroline Clipsham on piano.
If you prefer rock music The Chichester Inn has Voodoo Room performing music from Clapton, Hendrix & CREAM on the 28th January. Hear all of the songs that you love played with the panache of world class musicians.
Driving Experiences at Goodwood
Tackle an off road track in a 1960's Landrover at Goodwood. Take on a challenging track with up to three of your friends for a wild hour of driving, aided by an instructor. If fast and furious is more your style there are Spin & Slide experiences teaching you how to do movie style manoeuvres or a track day driving high performance cars with tuition and the opportunity to ride shotgun with a professional racing driver. Pump up your adrenalin and see the details of what's on at Goodwood here.
Release Your Creativity
West Dean college is a world renowned school specialising in art and craft. They run a range of expertly taught short courses designed to reconnect you with your creative side and enhance your skills. This January you'll find courses ranging from printmaking to painting, garden design to creative writing and silversmithing. The courses are run in the beautiful house and gardens of the college, donated to the preservation of craft by the surrealist artist Edward James. It's a wonderful place to spend time.
However you decide to spend you time we wish everyone a Happy New Year and all the best for the months ahead. Please follow the link if you would like any more information about our lovely holiday homes near Chichester.