Coast to Countryside

West Sussex is truly a diverse county and is rich in heritage, places of natural beauty, and attractions. Find the hidden hotspots in its miles of unspoilt coastline and immerse yourself in the current of culture that is currently sweeping the county.  

Countryside

The South Downs offer a unique blend of unspoilt coast and tranquil countryside, which can be enjoyed in many different ways, from walking and picnicking, to mountain biking or hang-gliding. Interspersed throughout this captivating countryside are a number of enticing attractions. The Amberley Working Museum is one such example. Dedicated to the industrial heritage of the South East, here you can watch craftsmen at work, and ride around the site on an open top vintage bus. There is also the Weald and Downland Open Air Museum, Chichester, a fascinating collection of over 45 historic buildings, some dating back to medieval times. All the buildings have been rescued from their original sites and painstakingly re-built this parkland setting

Top Destinations

The historic county town of Chichester is dominated by its cathedral, widely recognised as a cultural hotspot, it is also home to the world famous Chichester Festival Theatre. Another of Chichester's claims to fame is its city walls originally constructed by the Romans, an era re-lived at the nearby Fishbourne Roman Palace.

Setting a slightly slower pace the historic town of Arundel is dominated by its magnificent castle, parts of which date back to the Norman invasion. A must for many visitors is a climb to the top of the Norman Keep to overlook the beautiful downland scenery. For something a little different, Arundel's Ghost experience, set in the old prison cells, offers an altogether more spooky interpretation of the famous town.

Sport and Leisure

For sport enthusiasts, West Sussex is a must. If equestrian events are to your liking, there is horse racing at Fontwell, near Arundel, show jumping at Hickstead, and polo at Cowdray Park near Midhurst. There is also the famous horse racing festival 'Glorious Goodwood' held at the country estate during the last week of July. In recent years, Goodwood has also become synonymous with a very different type of horsepower. Its annual 'Festival of Speed' is one of the biggest motorsport events in the world, attracting big name motor-racing stars. Meanwhile the Goodwood 'Revival Meeting' celebrates the golden era of motorsport and features cars from the 1950's and 1960's. Spectators are encouraged to dress in period outfits. A far more quieter addition to the impressive Goodwood estate is the Cass Sculpture Foundation which displays over 70 monumental sculptures in its 20 acres of grounds.

Rich Heritage

West Sussex boasts a wealth of historic houses. Parham House near Pulborough is a restored Elizabethan manor house awarded five stars in 'England's Thousand Best Houses'. The National Trust also run properties in the county which include Uppark House at South Harting with its fine Georgian interiors and regency garden and Petworth House which features superb state rooms together with fascinating servant's quarters.

Fact Box

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