Glyndebourne is a cultural feast, a unique package of countryside, opera, art, gardens and Sussex heritage. With Christmas fast approaching, what about gift-vouchers for Glyndebourne? It may be the very answer you’ve been looking for, for that hard-to-please in-law! Vouchers start at £20. For those with mobility issues, you can still keep them in touch with their passion by offering a subscription to the Youtube channel or Glyndebourne Encore.
If you’re wishing to explore the world of opera yourself, there’s lots of choice: the ‘Festival’ runs May-August and the ‘Autumn’ events, September-December. The Summer and Autumn programmes cater for a rich array of tastes and tolerances, from frothy afternoon concerts full of hit tunes and sing-alongs, to full-blown operas. You could also make a family day of it, with kids aged 12 and above. There are fields and gardens galore to burn off excess energy. I love the look of the lake, and their art galleries. Tickets range from £25-£315.
There’s some homework to be done. Note, it’s a 2.5 hour drive from the Thames or your can take the train to Lewes for £20 day-return and book the visitor coach to the venue. You also may want to book a table in the marquee if you bring a picnic, or in one of their restaurants if not. Regarding dress code, it’s Black Tie in summer or smart casual in the Autumn… Their website is very helpful, to ensure you encounter absolutely no snags as a first-timer.
You could incorporate it into a south coast staycation, making the most of picturesque Lewes too, which has a very respectable castle, Anne of Cleeves House (closed in the winter), an historic town centre and enticing selection of independent shops.
