Spend a Day with the U3A

Open Day at the Birley Centre, 22 October 2026

Put this date in your diary!

Members across the East Sussex East Network are warmly invited to a special u3a Open Day at the Birley Centre, Eastbourne on Thursday 22nd October — a relaxed, welcoming day of learning, discovery, and hands-on fun celebrating the spirit of lifelong curiosity.

Running from 10am to 4pm, the event brings together the ten u3as of the East Sussex East Network including Battle & District, Crowborough, the three Eastbourne u3as, Hailsham & District, Hastings & Rother, Heathfield & District, Mayfield & District & Rye & District. You can expect three keynote speakers, a lively mix of interactive activities, and plenty of chances to explore what the u3a has to offer in our area.

A Day Built Around Curiosity

This year’s theme is History, interpreted in the broadest and most enjoyable way. Whether you’re drawn to local stories, social history, artefacts, puzzles, or immersive experiences, there bound to be something to catch your imagination.

Planned activities include:

• Traditional Pub Games – A cheerful display and demonstration, including the ever- popular Toad in the Hole.

• VR History Experience – Step into the past with guided virtual-reality sessions.

• Devonshire Quarter Tour – Morning and afternoon walks led by local historian, Kim Adams, uncovering the stories behind this distinctive cultural area.

• Hands-on History – Explore Rye Museum’s loan boxes (WW2, Victorian objects, and more) with help from knowledgeable volunteers.

• History Quiz – A light-hearted challenge for anyone who enjoys testing their knowledge.

… and many more activities to be confirmed.

Between the walks, visitors can also meet and chat to Kim Adams, a local author and walk leader, who will be happy to talk about any aspect of local history. Kim, a well-known local historian and long-standing Eastbourne Central u3a member, is admired for his deep knowledge of the town and his warm, engaging style.

Speakers, Refreshments, and a Welcoming Atmosphere

Speaker topics will be announced soon. Tea, coffee, and biscuits will be available throughout the day. Lunch isn’t provided, but the Birley Centre is perfectly placed for nearby cafés and restaurants.

A Collaborative Effort

The Open Day organised by the East Sussex East (ESE) u3a Network  to showcase the breadth of learning, friendship, and fun that the u3a offers, and to welcome both long-standing members and those curious to find out more.

Tickets and Further Information

Tickets will be available online once final costs are confirmed. They will be open to all u3a members and their eligible guests, with booking fees included. With members across our 10 U3As invited, tickets will be available on a first come first served basis. 

A full programme—including timings for the walks, speaker details, and activity schedule— will be shared in the coming months.

Take part

If you have an interest, collection, hobby, craft, or table-top activity that you think would be a good fit for the day, please do let us know. It doesn’t need to be elaborate — anything that showcases what our members enjoy, create, or know about would help bring the event to life. Even small displays or simple “have-a-go” ideas are very welcome, and they all contribute to giving visitors a real flavour of the variety within our u3as.

Please note:

All activities, dates, and timings are provisional and may change as plans are finalised. Please look out for updates. We’ll confirm any changes as soon as possible.

Can You Spare a Couple of Hours?

We’re looking for a few volunteers who can spare a couple of hours to help the day run smoothly. Tasks include welcoming visitors, helping with refreshments, guiding people to activities, and offering general support. It’s a great way to be part of the day and meet members from across the area. If you’re able to help, please let Diane know.