With 140 miles of coastline and acres of countryside, there are thousands of things to do in a visit to Sussex, whether you're a thrill-seeker, a shopaholic, a nature lover or a foodie - and since you're never more than an hour from London, the capital's delights can play a part in your stay here.
Sussex is filled with the beautiful South Downs National Park, the High Weald and Chichester Harbour, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (ANOB) now known as National Landscape. The whole of Sussex's countryside is a joy to behold, rich with elegant stately homes, fairy-tale castles, colourful gardens and cultural connections. The county links coast and countryside, East Sussex and West Sussex smoothly together.
Get up close and personal with Hastings’ smugglers, Eastbourne's adrenaline junkies, Arundel's antiques, Chichester's Roman history, Littlehampton's harbour, Brighton's gastronomy, Rye's cobbled citadel, Bognor Regis sunshine, East Grinstead character. Discover more about the county's towns and villages using our interactive map of Sussex.
Explore more than 200 of Sussex's tourist attractions - many of which are open all year round, so find something to do today with listings for attractions each showing a map and opening times for your convenience. Browse our events guide to find out what's on in Sussex today or this week and plan your next visit to the east and west of the county.
Free time this weekend? Head to the historic town of Lewes and wander its narrow streets that nestle in the heart of the South Downs. Pay a visit to Sussex Guild Shop & Gallery, great for those looking for a gift or chance to explore the work of local professional designers. Home to over 100 members, it is located in the imposing Elizabethan house, the Southover Grange.
Don't miss the chance to explore the charming town of Arundel with its thousands of years of history, independent shops, art galleries and restaurants. Wander the cobbled streets, explore the riverside, visit the famous castle or head off road to the South Downs for countryside walks and cycling. Head along in August for the fantastic free Arundel Festival of Arts which runs for 10-days within the town.
Dive into a nostalgic visit with time in Bexhill-on-Sea, a creative hotstop, with vintage shops, independant cafe's and plenty of sea air and sea views to enjoy. Take in the stunning seaviews across the bay to Eastbourne and Beachy Head or Galley Hill and Hastings.
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Mid Sussex from the world famous gardens of Wakehurst to the breathtaking Ouse Valley Viaduct. Take a wander along one of the the recently mapped 'About the Place' walking trails which cover 40 miles in 7 circular walks across the district.
Whether you're ooking for a gardeners paradise at Gravetye Manor, five-star luxury by the sea The Grand, an award-winning campsite Stubcroft Farm, a South Downs retreat Tottington Manor or a last-minute holiday Daish's Imperial Hotel, you'll find a place thats right for you. It is easy to extend a day out in Sussex into two, three or more days with so much to do, and luckily Sussex offers an array of hotels, inns, B&Bs and other accommodation that will not only help you extend your stay but enhance it.
For more information about Sussex, including ideas for days out, attractions and events, view the list below for information on things to do and towns and villages within the county. Use the 'map view' button to find something near you.
Number of results: 256
, currently showing 201 to 220.
Town
The famous ruins at Cowdray opened to the public again in 2007 after an extensive refurbishment.
Village
Turners Hill village stands on a steep ridge line at one of the highest points, (600 feet above sea level), of the Sussex Weald where two historically important routes, the B2110 and B2028, cross. There are impressive views from the centre of the vil
Museum
Hove
Hove Museum of Creativity is one of the most family friendly and accessible museums in the south east.
Towns & Villages
Eastbourne
East Dean & Friston villages, including the smaller hamlets of Birling Gap and Crowlink, are situated within the South Downs National Park on the dramatic and beautiful coastline of Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters
National Trust
Uckfield
Sheffield Park and Garden is a Grade-I listed landscape garden with surrounding historic parkland. Glorious in all seasons, with highlights from the rhododendrons in spring, summer waterlilies and spectacular autumn colour. Originally designed in…
Restaurant
Eastbourne
The stunning Bistrot and terrace, Bistrot Pierre, located right on the seafront near Eastbourne Pier, is a modern and picturesque building that’s easy to spot. With sweeping panoramic views of the sea and the iconic chalk cliffs of Beachy Head, it…
Garden
Haywards Heath
A historical formal Garden, woodlands, lakes, parkland and adventure playground.
Event days. Café & restaurant, art gallery, gift shop. Dogs permitted
Towns & Villages
Whatever your choice, East Sussex is a unique mix of beautiful market towns, laid-back beach life and unspoilt countryside.
Café
CHICHESTER
In the Café on the Park at Chichester Festival Theatre you can find barista coffee, cracking cakes and lovely light lunches right next to the expansive green spaces of Oaklands Park.
Rural Destinations
Ashdown Forest, six and a half thousand acres of enchanted forest and heathland, is one of England's surviving primeval wonders.
History and Heritage
Haywards Heath
Located between Haywards Heath and Balcombe, the Ouse Valley Viaduct offers a dramatic view. A structural marvel, the viaduct was originally built in 1838 to carry the London-Brighton line over the River Ouse.
Towns & Villages
Barcombe is three villages in one. There is the original community which surrounds the church, Barcombe Cross where villagers fled to escape the Black Death and Barcombe Mills, a popular fishing spot.
Village
Tudor houses, Georgian homes, village pond and mediaeval church set on the green. This is the picture postcard village of Ditchling.
Beach
Brighton & Hove
Bustling Brighton & Hove promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll where you can relax on the beach or try one of the activities available. Or why not visit one of the cafes, restaurant and bars
Adventure Park / Playground
Littlehampton
Home to the sea, beach, riverside, picnic greens and buckets of laughs. A must do for any family planning a fun day out!
Towns & Villages
Situated at the base of the chalk cliffs called the Seven Sisters. Shingle giving way to sand with areas of rock pools.
Leisure / Swimming Pool
Eastbourne
The Sovereign Centre is the ultimate destination for fitness and family fun, all in one place!
Nature and Wildlife
Polegate
Experience the chance to get up and close to the inquisitive and friendly Lemurs at Drusillas Park near Eastbourne.
Town
Arundel
Arundel is a charming, stylish market town famous for its landmarks, Arundel Castle and Arundel Cathedral. Find things to do and places to visit nearby
Village
A small attractive village on one of the small inlets of Chichester harbour, Bosham (pronounced 'Bozzum') has played an important part in the history of this country over the centuries.