If you're looking for leisure travel that goes beyond castles, coastlines and cream teas, then the quirky local traditions of Kent and Sussex are just what you’re looking for. These two historic counties aren’t just about views and villages, they’re home to some of the UK’s most eccentric, entertaining and fascinating events.
There are ancient pagan rituals, custard pie fights, and folk festivals that go back centuries. Here are six of the quirkiest local traditions and events that you’ll only find in Kent and Sussex.
Rye Bay Scallop Week
Where: Rye, East Sussex
When: February
Nearest Southern station: Rye
Every year, the medieval town of Rye celebrates its seafaring roots with Rye Bay Scallop Week. Over a dozen restaurants create inventive scallop dishes (think scallop sushi or curried scallops), while the town hosts talks, music, and the odd fishy-themed costume parade. This is a truly quirky Sussex tradition where food and folklore come together in briny harmony.
The Jack-in-the-Green Festival
Where: Hastings, Sussex
When: May Day Bank Holiday
Nearest Southern station: Hastings
Once a year, the usually quiet seaside town of Hastings bursts into colour and folklore with the Jack-in-the-Green Festival. Rooted in pagan history, this leafy green figure represents the spirit of nature and springtime.
The four-day festival features incredible eye-catching costumes, drummers, Morris dancers and a grand procession, culminating in the ceremonial "slaying" of the Jack to release the spirit of summer. If you're after unique festivals in Sussex, this one combines myth, music and the quintessentially English spirit.
The World Custard Pie Championship
Where: Coxheath, Kent
When: Early June
Nearest Southern station: Ashford International
Held annually in the village of Coxheath near Maidstone, the World Custard Pie Championship was originally created to raise money for the local village hall. It is exactly what it sounds like: a messy, hilarious celebration inspired by none other than Charlie Chaplin. Teams dress in wild costumes and battle it out to see who can hurl pies with the most accuracy and flair.
The event began in the 1960s and is now a fun, free, family event held every summer. If you're searching for unusual events in Kent, this is one of the most iconic and Instagrammable traditions around.
Arundel Carpet of Flowers
Where: Arundel, Sussex
When: June
Nearest Southern station: Arundel
Each summer, Arundel Cathedral is filled with a breath taking floral carpet, painstakingly laid out by local volunteers. This colourful tradition, held annually around the Feast of Corpus Christi, draws visitors from across the country to admire the artistic floral patterns lining the cathedral floor. The tradition was first introduced by the Duke of Norfolk in 1877, inspired by a similar display in Sutri, Italy. It’s a quiet and profound tradition that reflects both religious heritage and community pride.
Mayfield Royal Bonfire
Where: Mayfield, East Sussex
When: Third Saturday in September
Nearest Southern station: Crowborough
Mayfield might look like a sleepy village, but every September it explodes into fiery celebration during its Bonfire Procession. Mayfield Bonfire Society has held a carnival almost every year for nearly a century, except during times of war, typhoid and Covid. At over a mile long and with 5,000 burning torches, the Mayfield procession is believed to be the longest in Sussex, other than the Lewes Grand United Procession on 5th November. Thousands of people flock to the village each year to take part in the carnival and watch this spectacular event.
The Pagham Pram Race
Where: Bognor Regis, Sussex
When: Boxing Day
Nearest Southern station: Bognor Regis
Held on Boxing Day every year, this 80-year-old local event sees teams (wearing fantastic costumes) racing prams through the village, stopping at pubs along the way for a pint. It's a mix of friendly competition, festive cheer, and Christmas spirit. Founded in 1946, The Pagham Pram Race started as a quirky race by demobilised servicemen to raise money to treat soldiers returning from the war. The prize? A Christmas fruit cake.