We hope that members will take advantage of the events and field trips that are due to take place this year. Whether a beginner or an experienced lepidopterist, everyone will be made very welcome. All the events and field trips are aimed at improving our knowledge of butterflies, but some of the guided walks will have specific target species in mind, particularly those species that can be difficult to find. The field trips will be led by an experienced butterfly enthusiast who knows the local area and where the butterfly colonies may be found.
Non-members are also very welcome to join in these events and field trips, if there are spare places available.
Please note that for every event there is a limit on the number of participants, and therefore registration will be required. Your expression of interest should be sent as indicated on the relevant event details page and will either be to the event organiser, or to Roy Broad at events@sussex-butterflies.org.uk. Places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
If subsequently you are unable to attend, please notify the relevant email contact, so that someone on the standby list can take your place. Some events have a backup date in case of bad weather, and so please let us know if you will be unable to attend on the proposed backup date.
Many of the events are located on downland and the terrain is likely to be uneven. Stout walking boots are strongly recommended. You may also require rain proofing, drinking water, snacks, and should the sun be shining, some sunscreen.
Public transport may be available for some of the event locations – please check online for train and bus information.
Future field trips: If you have any ideas for future trips or would like to lead one on your favourite site then please contact Roy Broad at events@sussex-butterflies.org.uk. We would love to hear from you!
| Date: | Friday 07 Aug 2026 |
|---|---|
| Event Title: | An Introduction to Castle Hill NNR its butterfly and plant species with Graham Hubbard. |
| Event Description: | A stroll across this beautiful national nature reserve situated just North East of Woodingdean on the Eastern side of Brighton, a fine example of Chalk downland with its associated species. |
| Event Type: | Walk |
| Event Time: | 10:00 to 13:00 |
| Target Species: | There should be a good chance of seeing Adonis Blue, Chalk Hill Blue, Common Blue and hopefully Small Blue if we're lucky. Also Brown Argus, possibly Skippers and anything else that may be enjoying the nectar of the many plant species on this site. |
| Meeting Place: | Castle Hill Car park - /// skip.diverged.farmland - this is a free car park and is well used. If parking is limited then there is usually parking along Bexhill Rd Which is next left (if facing the sea) but allow time to walk from here to the meeting point at the car park by 10:00, prompt. |
| OS Grid Ref: | TQ 35641 06338 |
| Map: | |
| Contact Details: | Booking will be required by email to events@sussex-butterflies.org.uk Please put “Castle Hill” as the subject of the email. |
| Other Info: | Members only initially and numbers will be restricted to 12. There's a slight potential of ticks as there is long grass and undergrowth, and some uneven ground and narrow paths in places, also bramble and rose thorns, so long trousers are recommended. This area is frequented by dog walkers so common sense applies here. |
Children
Children are welcome at our events, but if under 16 they must be accompanied by at least one adult for two children. It is the responsibility of the accompanying adult(s) to ensure that the event is within the children's ability.
Dogs
Dogs are normally welcome on walks but must be kept under control. Any exceptions are shown in the individual event details.
Bad weather
Leaders of Branch-led walks will be at the meeting point whatever the weather, but may cancel the event if conditions are unsuitable. Any exceptions are shown in the individual event details. Other organisations and BC branches have different policies. Please contact the named leader for the walk before travelling if you have any concerns.
Lyme Disease
We recommend that all attendees understand the symptoms of Lyme Disease and take the relevant precautions.
Special needs
Unfortunately, most walks will not be suitable for wheelchair users and pushchairs. Please contact the named leader in advance if you have any concerns about accessibility.
What3words
We have tried to include the What3words link for each event. Use your browser to locate on a map or download the App at What3words
Public Transport
We aim to give as much information as possible, although unfortunately some of the Sussex events are not easily accessible by public transport. Train times should be checked, as timetables change and engineering works take place on Saturdays and Sundays. We recommend using public transport for all events where possible.
