❍ Sturgeon Moon
August Full Moon
Date: Friday 28 August 2026
Moonrise: 7.15pm
Book an exclusive one hour night-time session at our WildSpa sauna and plunge for up to 6 people when you stay at Westerlands during a full moon.
August 2026
Sturgeon Moon
Why It’s Special
The Sturgeon Moon is the full moon of August, named after the large fish that were traditionally caught in rivers and coastal waters during late summer. While the name originates from North American tradition, across the UK, August has historically been a peak month for fishing and harvest preparation, making the full moon a natural marker for agricultural and riverine activity. The Sturgeon Moon shines as a reminder of late-summer abundance and the seasonal cycles of land and water.
What You’ll Notice
At Westerlands, the Sturgeon Moon will rise in the east at approximately 7.15pm, shortly after sunset. Low on the horizon, it often glows with soft amber tones, gradually brightening to silver as it climbs higher. Its light casts long shadows across fields, woodland edges, and riverbanks, highlighting the full richness of late summer landscapes. The Moon’s presence is particularly striking when viewed over the rolling countryside and along streams and ponds near Westerlands.
Folklore & Tradition
While the term “Sturgeon Moon” comes from the North American fishing tradition, full moons in late August were also observed in the UK as seasonal markers for harvesting late crops and preparing for autumn. Sussex farmers would have used the light to extend evening chores, from checking livestock to managing hay fields and orchards. The Moon also served as a reference for local fishermen and anglers, guiding evening activity on rivers such as the nearby River Rother and small streams in the South Downs.
Seasonal Connection
August represents the tail end of summer: fields are full, fruit trees are heavy with produce, and the days begin to shorten slightly. The Sturgeon Moon provided practical illumination for late summer tasks, such as harvesting, preparing winter fodder, and tending livestock before autumn. Its timing was a natural cue for rural communities to take stock of crops and resources, ensuring the bounty of summer was secured.
Tips for Viewers
At Westerlands, look east at 7.15pm to watch the Sturgeon Moon rise. The low-horizon glow against the South Downs is especially photogenic, and its reflection can be striking over local ponds or streams. As it climbs, the Moon’s silvery light illuminates the countryside, perfect for evening walks or photography. Observing the Sturgeon Moon allows you to connect with the rhythms of late summer in West Sussex, appreciating both natural beauty and the historical agricultural significance of the lunar calendar.