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: | Sunday 22 Nov 2026 |
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| Event Title: | Sussex BC Members Day 2026 |
| Event Description: | Our Members Day this year commences with an introduction by our Chairman Dave Brown at 11:30. We then have presentations including Gareth Tilley with his "Shining a New Light on Butterflies" talk which covers the increasingly popular use of UV torches to find larvae. Ash Walmsley, Head of Countryside for the Conservators of Ashdown Forest, will be giving us a talk on the history, ecology and conservation of the Forest. There will also be an update on the Wood White Project from Alan Birch and David Bridges. We will provide the usual refreshments, cake and biscuits during the break which will be extended to allow members to bring and consume their own packed lunches if they wish and still have time to socialise. We expect the event to finish around 14:45 so that this year there is less travelling in the dark for everyone. |
| Event Type: | Social |
| Event Time: | 11:30 to 14:45 |
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| Meeting Place: | Our event on Sunday 22nd of November will be held at the Adastra Hall, Keymer Road, Hassocks, BN6 8QH. What3Words - furnish.bordering.suppose This is a modern building with all the facilities you would expect in a popular multi-use venue. |
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| Other Info: | TRAVEL Hassocks railway station is a 10 minute walk (less than half a mile) from the Hall. There is limited free parking at the Hall. There are then 2 free car parks in Adastra Park accessible from Orchard Lane just 4 minutes walk away. Free Street Parking is also available along the north side of Keymer Road and there is also parking behind the Orion Parade shopping area. |
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.
