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: 260
, currently showing 201 to 220.
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!
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.
Town
Eastbourne
Stroll along three miles of pristine palm-lined promenade, take in a show at the elegant art-deco inspired Bandstand, admire the views from the iconic Victorian Pier or simply admire the breath-taking beauty of the coastal landmarks at Beachy Head…
Theme Park
Newhaven
From plants to play, Paradise Park has something for all generations of the family to enjoy a unique and exciting day out. Visit Planet Earth Museum, Sussex Plant House, Sussex History Trail, themed gardens and extensive indoor and outdoor play…
Village
Ansty is a small settlement about four miles from Haywards Heath. Its village sign, situated at the Ansty Cross was painted by the renowned local artist James Forsyth.
Towns & Villages
The Seven Sisters are part of a magnificent stretch of coastline between Seaford and Eastbourne, including Beachy Head beauty spot.
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.
Railway
Hastings
Information about one of Hastings' most recognisable landmarks. East Hill Lift provides easy access to the Country Park. West Hill Lift takes you to the Castle and Adventure Park.
Town
Uckfield
Uckfield is an attractive market town combining classic values of strong community spirit and
friendliness with all the modern necessities of life. It is situated on the southern boundary of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Cathedral / Minister
Chichester
In the heart of Chichester, a magnificent Cathedral with treasures ranging from medieval stone carvings to world famous 20th Century artworks. Entry free, donations welcome. Suggested donation £7.00 per person. Exhibitions, concerts and special…
Gallery
Hastings
The Jerwood Gallery is now closed. On 6 July 2019 it relaunches as Hastings Contemporary. Providing a platform for exhibitions by some of the world's most celebrated artists, first up are Tal R and Roy Oxlade, plus works by David Bomberg & Sir…
Beach
Chichester
The beach provides sandy beach at low tide, pebbly at high tide. Ideal for a family day out offering great paddling, good swimming, sandcastle building, coastal walks with its natural rugged feel.
Steam Railway
Tenterden
Images of this picturesque line weaveing between Tenterden and Bodiam. England's finest rural light railway enables visitors to experience travel & service from a bygone age aboard beautifully restored Victorian coaches and locomotives.
Leisure / Swimming Pool
Worthing
Worthing Leisure Centre welcomes all ages to its very varied facility. From Creches to Climbing walls; classes to conferences; this is a multi purpose venue where fun and fitness are keywords.
Restaurant
Brighton
The New Club is an American styled restaurant, café and bar located on Brighton Seafront where you will experience the taste and feel of New York City.
Village
Ardingly is a parish of attractive wooded scenery in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The village sign was erected as a memorial to Viscountess Wolseley, and marks the site of the original tollgate.
Towns & Villages
Newhaven
Originally a Saxon Settlement, the town of Newhaven is now a thriving harbour town linking the South East Coast of Britain with mainland Europe.
Tea Room/Coffee Shop
Hassocks
The Barn Coffee Shop and Restaurant at South Downs Heritage Centre
Garden
Haywards Heath
Have a day out like no other at Wakehurst, Kew's wild botanic garden. With over 500 acres to discover, Wakehurst is home to a dramatic and diverse landscape, ranging from ornamental gardens to temperate woodlands, wildflower meadows and the Loder…
Towns & Villages
Plumpton is another village of two halves. The southern end of the village is cut across by the South Downs Way near the site of an Early Bronze Age settlement.