Kindling Space runs pay-as-you-feel campfires at Stanmer Park every fortnight

Kindling Space², a Brighton campfire group for meeting new people, is running fortnightly fires at Stanmer Park again this season. The next is on Wednesday 28 October, from 6pm to 9pm, with a “Night of the Living Dead” theme for Halloween.

The group hires a private plot in the Stanmer Wellbeing Gardens, which has two fire pits, one in the open and one under a parachute. There is no agenda. People cook together over the fire, chat, and bring instruments or art if they like. The booking page says there’s “no pressure to speak, share or take part in anything.” Groups are kept to about five to 15 people.

It is a sober gathering, so leave the alcohol and Bluetooth speakers at home. Well-behaved dogs are welcome. Donations cover the plot, firewood and small costs.

Eleanor, who started the group, says she has lived experience of mental health and a peer support qualification. If storms are forecast the fire moves to another date and bookings move with it. After 28 October, the next campfires are on Friday 13 November and Thursday 26 November.