* Go boating at Swanbourne Lake

Overlooked by both Swanbourne Lodge and Arundel Castle, this picturesque boating lake in Arundel (pictured above) offers a tranquil way to spend a spring afternoon.

Reopened to the public this month, visitors can hire a rowing boat for half an hour for £3.50 per adult (children £2.50) and admire the stunning surroundings from the middle of the water. Enjoy a cream tea afterwards at the tea rooms nearby.

Visit www.swanbournelodge.co.uk

 

* Learn floristry at The Sussex Flower School

At this bright, airy school in rural East Hoathly, even the most inexperienced student can learn how to produce impressive arrangements. Run by Georgina Miles, a specialist in historical floral design who has taught at Plumpton College, relaxed classes offer students the chance to build up skills from course to course or just enjoy a day surrounded by the most beautiful of the season’s flowers. The next Floristry For Beginners session takes place on Wednesday, March 26, and will teach students how to source and condition flowers, and how to make a hand-tied bouquet.

The Sussex Flower School, Village Works, London Road, East Hoathly.

Visit www.thesussexflowerschool.co.uk for details of all courses.

 

* Have a flutter at Plumpton Racecourse

Take advantage of the warmer weather and spend a day at Plumpton Racecourse – one of the more thrilling ways to enjoy the Sussex landscape.

Whether a seasoned regular or a total newcomer, the racecourse’s website offers tips and advice on getting the most out of your visit, from how to place bets to what to wear – it’s worth noting it doesn’t operate a dress code and advises people to wear whatever they feel comfortable in.

There are races most weeks but if you’re on a bit of a budget then check out the racecourse’s special Go Racing For £10 days on Mondays up until the end of March.

For more information, visit www.plumptonracecourse.co.uk

 

*Walk in West Dean Woods

If you want to see daffodils somewhere other than the supermarket, a walk through West Dean Woods is a must this month. Two miles north of West Dean village, the woods are a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest and are home to more than 40 species of woodland bird as well as a range of butterflies.

The working woodland is part of a private estate and access is restricted. A public bridleway runs alongside the western edge where walkers can get the best view of the large collection (estimated at around one million in good years) of daffodils that grow at the northern end.

For more information visit sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk

 

* Feed the lambs at Spring Barn Farm

There are few more spring-like sights than gambolling lambs. At this familyrun farm five minutes from Lewes, visitors are invited to get involved in the fun of lambing season by bottlefeeding the new arrivals. Arrive around lunchtime and you can enjoy a meal at the farm cafe, which features a changing menu of seasonal treats, before stocking up on freshly laid eggs and other produce at the farm shop.

Spring Barn Farm, Kingston Road, Lewes. Open daily 10am to 5pm.

Visit springbarnfarm.com