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A Joyful Take on our Heritage ~ St John the Evangelist Newtimber

St John the Evangelist, Newtimber Church, Church Lane, Newtimber, Hassocks, West Sussex, BN6 9BT

  • 12 Sep 2026
  • | In person
  • | Pre-booking not required
  • | Site opening

St John the Evangelist medieval church was transformed in the 1800s with generous funding from Charles Gordon, owner of Jamaican plantations where enslaved people toiled. Join us on 12th September we celebrate the indomitable spirit of those people

This C13th medieval church was restored in C19th using proceeds from the enslavement of African people in the Caribbean and was then funded by landowners who supported the Abolition of Slavery. These family links led to a maritime tragedy for Black East African soldiers fighting for Britain in the First Word War.
While we are proud to share the stories of important global events in this rural spot, this year we want to celebrate the culture, customs and incredible resilience of all our Global majority brothers and sisters and and share joyful customs, music and dance.

Timings

Saturday 12 September:
1000-1600

Location & directions

St John the Evangelist, Newtimber Church, Church Lane, Newtimber, Hassocks, West Sussex, BN6 9BT

Directions:
Drive north out of Brighton and come off at the HENFIELD A281 junction, just before the Texaco garage. Stay on the A281 for 2 km and the sign for Newtimber Church is just after the hill on your right. Park along Church Lane.
Contact on day:
Ngaire Digby
Telephone number:
+447595255427

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

The brick path from the road to the church is wide enough for a wheelchair, and while it is a bit bumpy, with care, it is suitable for an electric wheelchair. Plenty of parking along Church Lane & at Newtimber Place. There are two steps into the north transept where the Gordon memorial is, which will restrict some visitors.

Additional information

The church has displays and leaflets giving you a better understanding of the memorials in the building, revealing our colonial heritage. Refreshments available 1000-1600 on 12th Sept We have woodland and exploratory activities for young children available in the entrance. They are available for visitors now and throughout the summer hols. Newtimber church is open all year round and welcomes ramblers, D of E, scouts, school parties, cyclists, Brighton Fringe, recitals & talks.

Check out our online channels

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