Demonstrations of the traditional craft of spinning, dyeing and handweaving. The East Grinstead Spinners are a small group of enthusiasts who enjoy sharing ideas, learning new skills, spinning, weaving and dyeing. They'll be joining us at Standen the first Friday of every month from March until October.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue. As the result of a national open call, presented by Sussex Contemporary in partnership with the National Trust, a panel of expert judges, chaired by Ruth Howard, Property Experiences Curator, selected contemporary works to be displayed throughout Standen House. UK-based & UK-connected makers were invited to create contemporary responses to the Arts & Crafts movement. Submissions were welcomed across a wide range of media, from textiles & ceramics to furniture, illustration, metalwork & more. Fresh new pieces will be displayed throughout Standen’s historic interiors, creating an exciting conversation between the house’s original Arts & Crafts design and the fresh perspectives of modern makers. A curated display anchors the exhibition, with additional pieces placed across the house to highlight the movement’s continuing influence. All works will be available for purchase throughout the three-month exhibition, giving the opportunity to take home exceptional contemporary craft.

A summer of play at Standen with circus school activities. Roll up, roll up! Summer of Play arrives at Standen with a Victorian circus twist. Try your hand at Circus School, then explore the gardens and wander up to the woodland den to practise a few circus skills of your own. Great for kids.

Join us on Sunday afternoons for live music on the house terrace. Bring picnic rugs and chairs and enjoy an afternoon of live music from local bands.

Heritage crafts and core making skills with Sussex Contemporary exhibitors; including demonstrations and talks. Booking not needed. This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue. Demos and talks are non-bookable, just turn up on the day. Sussex Contemporary exhibitors will be on Goose Green all day showcasing core making skills and heritage crafts.

Meet Gorringes at Standen on Goose Green. Learn more about Gorringes' forthcoming auction programme and collect a complimentary sale catalogue. Gorringes are sponsoring Sussex Contemporary's new summer exhibition in the house.

Botanical mono-printing Sussex Craft Studios will be joining us throughout the day for a free botanical monoprinting activity. Booking not needed. This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue. Experiment with flowers and plant materials to create your own printed marks, forms and patterns inspired by the natural world. The activity is suitable for visitors of all experience levels and no booking is required. Hand Weaving Try hand weaving and explore one of the foundational skills at the heart of the Arts and Crafts movement. Booking not needed. This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.