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 41 to 60.
Beaches
Worthing
Worthing has 5 miles of a beautiful palm-tree lined promenade, including the exciting new splash point and Lido making for a perfect fun day at the beach.
Town
Horsham
The market town of Horsham is set in outstanding parkland and countryside. Find things to do, shopping, restaurants and explore nearby places
Village
Chichester
Goodwood House, home to the Dukes of Richmond and Gordon for over 300 years, together with the Goodwood Motor Circuit and Racecourse, hotel and Sculpture Park are the main landmarks of this charming village and area of the downs.
Towns & Villages
Royal Tunbridge Wells
Royal Tunbridge Wells in Kent was one of the most fashionable towns of Georgian England, from the discovery of Chalybeate Spring 400 years ago
Village
Hustpierpoint is a village in the centre of Sussex which was mentioned in the Doomsday book. It stands out with its unique blend of historical allure, scenic landscapes, and a lively community spirit.
Nature Trail / Watching
Polegate
The Cuckoo Trail is 11 miles long joining three of the district’s towns, Heathfield, Hailsham and Polegate. It also passes through the villages of Horam and Hellingly.
Town
Polegate
Polegate lies on the Roman road which runs from Pevensey Castle (Anderida) to Lewes.
Village
Situated to the north of Haywards Heath, Lindfield has four ingredients traditionally required for an attractive Sussex village - a historic church, a picturesque High Street, (once one of the coaching routes to Brighton), a tranquil pond and large…
Cities
Brighton
Vibrant, colourful and creative - three words that describe Brighton & Hove, one of the UK’s favourite seaside cities.
Theatre
Eastbourne
1930's Bandstand which hosts concerts from Tribute Bands to Traditional Concerts through-out the year from May to September plus special Easter, Christmas and Boxing Day concerts.
Towns & Villages
Cranbrook
Cranbrook, known as the Capital of the Weald, is a pretty town with a medieval layout of streets and alleys – many buildings dating from the 15th century through to the 19th century.
Town
Shoreham-by-Sea, is a historic town with a centre which reflects the architecture of its fishing history. There are old cottages, houses and some beautiful churches. Yet the town is vibrant and well worth a visit.
National Park
The South Downs, now a newly designated National Park are easily accessible from Worthing. The South Downs Way runs from Winchester to Eastbourne and can be accessed at several points around Worthing or Adur.
Discovery ticket:
The new…
Restaurant
Tunbridge Wells
Welcome to Bistro du Vin Tunbridge Wells. Calming and cosy yet full of class and style, the experience at our bistro restaurant is unforgettable, Meet, eat, celebrate or simply pass the time - at the classic, French-styled Bistro du vin.
Village
Lodsworth parish is in an area of outstanding natural beauty. It comprises Lodsworth village, the hamlet of Lickfold and part of Selham, with a population of some 60.
Tea Room/Coffee Shop
Arundel
Visit Amberley Museum & Heritage Centre and immerse yourself in the nostalgia of the South East’s industrial heritage.
Pub/Inn
East Grinstead
The Cat Inn is a 16th century free house set in the picturesque village of West Hoathly, a hilltop village set in the heart of the Sussex countryside. It is in within easy distance from the towns of East Grinstead and Haywards Heath.
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…
Village
Lancing, situated between the South Downs and the sea, has a long history dating back to the Stone Age. During the Bronze Age (1500 to 500BC) a sacred place was made near Lancing Ring and an incense cup and fragments of pottery from this spot are…
Activity Organiser
Rye
Nice Work delivers exceptional running events, managing over 150 races a year across the South East and beyond. We provide comprehensive support, from race management to bespoke medals and ensure a fun, inclusive experience for all.