visit west sussex attractions

Top Things to Do in West Sussex, England

Places to visit in west sussex, explore popular experiences, popular cities in west sussex.

Ways to tour West Sussex

Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex

• Cotswolds One Day Guided Cycle Tour - Private Groups

60 minute South Coast Helicopter Tour

Yoga, Forest Bathing and Foraging day retreat near Brighton

Mountain bike hire

• Arundel castle historic ships portsmouth

A weekend trip to the Fairytale Castles and Gardens

• Gems of the British countryside - sightseeing from Southampton

Cotswolds One Day Guided Walk - Private Groups

Brighton Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

Top attractions in west sussex.

Fun & Games

Self-guided Tours

Walking Tours

Full-day tours, historical tours, private sightseeing tours, what travellers are saying.

• Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens
• Tilgate Park
• Highdown Gardens
• Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens
• Hotham Park
• West Sussex Falconry
• Hawking About
• Huxley's Birds of Prey Centre and Gardens
• Kingley Vale
• Bosham Quay
• Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex
• Brighton and Arundel Castle or Petworth House Independent Full Day Private Tour
• Tangmere Military Aviation Museum
• Wings Aviation Museum
• Tulleys Farm

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in West Sussex

Things to do in west sussex, explore popular experiences, popular cities in west sussex.

Ways to tour West Sussex

Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex

• Cotswolds One Day Guided Cycle Tour - Private Groups

60 minute South Coast Helicopter Tour

Yoga, Forest Bathing and Foraging day retreat near Brighton

Mountain bike hire

• Arundel castle historic ships portsmouth

A weekend trip to the Fairytale Castles and Gardens

• Gems of the British countryside - sightseeing from Southampton

Cotswolds One Day Guided Walk - Private Groups

Brighton Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

Top attractions in west sussex.

Fun & Games

Self-guided Tours

Walking Tours

Full-day tours, historical tours, private sightseeing tours, what travellers are saying.

• Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens
• Tilgate Park
• Highdown Gardens
• Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens
• Hotham Park
• West Sussex Falconry
• Hawking About
• Huxley's Birds of Prey Centre and Gardens
• Kingley Vale
• Bosham Quay
• Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex
• Brighton and Arundel Castle or Petworth House Independent Full Day Private Tour
• Tangmere Military Aviation Museum
• Wings Aviation Museum
• Tulleys Farm

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in West Sussex

Things to do in west sussex, explore popular experiences, popular cities in west sussex.

Ways to tour West Sussex

Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex

• Cotswolds One Day Guided Cycle Tour - Private Groups

60 minute South Coast Helicopter Tour

Yoga, Forest Bathing and Foraging day retreat near Brighton

Mountain bike hire

• Arundel castle historic ships portsmouth

A weekend trip to the Fairytale Castles and Gardens

• Gems of the British countryside - sightseeing from Southampton

Cotswolds One Day Guided Walk - Private Groups

Brighton Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

Top attractions in west sussex.

Fun & Games

Self-guided Tours

Walking Tours

Full-day tours, historical tours, private sightseeing tours, what travellers are saying.

• Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens
• Tilgate Park
• Highdown Gardens
• Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens
• Hotham Park
• West Sussex Falconry
• Hawking About
• Huxley's Birds of Prey Centre and Gardens
• Kingley Vale
• Bosham Quay
• Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex
• Brighton and Arundel Castle or Petworth House Independent Full Day Private Tour
• Tangmere Military Aviation Museum
• Wings Aviation Museum
• Tulleys Farm

Top Things to Do in West Sussex

Things to do in west sussex, explore popular experiences, popular cities in west sussex.

Ways to tour West Sussex

Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex

• Cotswolds One Day Guided Cycle Tour - Private Groups

60 minute South Coast Helicopter Tour

Yoga, Forest Bathing and Foraging day retreat near Brighton

Mountain bike hire

• Arundel castle historic ships portsmouth

A weekend trip to the Fairytale Castles and Gardens

• Gems of the British countryside - sightseeing from Southampton

Cotswolds One Day Guided Walk - Private Groups

Brighton Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

Top attractions in west sussex.

Fun & Games

Self-guided Tours

Walking Tours

Full-day tours, historical tours, private sightseeing tours, what travelers are saying.

• Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens
• Tilgate Park
• Highdown Gardens
• Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens
• Hotham Park
• West Sussex Falconry
• Hawking About
• Huxley's Birds of Prey Centre and Gardens
• Kingley Vale
• Bosham Quay
• Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex
• Brighton and Arundel Castle or Petworth House Independent Full Day Private Tour
• Tangmere Military Aviation Museum
• Wings Aviation Museum
• Tulleys Farm

Top things to do on a short break in West Sussex

Plan your break to West Sussex

What could be better than a county with vast areas of protected countryside, a variety of vineyards and a whopping 50 miles of coastline to explore? Yep, not much. Encompassing part of the South Downs National Park, there are countless things to do in West Sussex whether you’re into wine tasting, rockpooling, sports cars or river kayaking. Read on to discover your new favourite places on the south coast of England.

Places to visit in West Sussex

Arundel Castle

Having seen sieges, battles and even the likes of Queen Victoria and her husband Prince Albert, Arundel Castle , originally built at the end of the 11th century, is a testament against time. Set high on a hill, the castle commands the landscape with its lofty turrets and magnificent views across the South Downs and the River Arun. Wander through the castle’s glorious gardens and grounds, from the award-winning Tropical and English Gardens to the warm glasshouses filled with chillies, grapes and lemons. Be sure to take a castle tour too, to learn about the finely preserved interiors, dotted with fascinating furniture, tapestries and a rare collection of paintings.

More staycation ideas

Once you’re all castled out, make your way down the hill to the chic market town of Arundel. Nestled in the majestic Arun Valley, the town combines one thousand years of history with a bunch of independent shops, art galleries, delightful drinking spots and quirky cafes, making it a great place to explore and unwind. Take a peek at bits and bobs that make up the town’s heritage at the Arundel Museum  – from Roman floor tiles to WWII air raid siren – or laze away the afternoon surrounded by the stunning scenery of the South Downs at Riverside , a fabulous spot for food, drink and even paddleboard hire! Then retire for the night at The Swan Hotel , a traditional country pub home to 14 stylish suites in the heart of Arundel.

Vineyards in West Sussex

Tinwood Estate

The dry and sunny West Sussex climate is ideal for growing grapes, so it’s no surprise there are more and more vineyards popping up across the county, each with its own distinctive vintage and special welcome. Block out an afternoon for a wine tour around one of the vineyards – Tinwood Estate  and Bluebell Vineyard  are famous for their sparkling wines, while Bolney Wine Estate  (said to be one of the oldest vineyards in England) is renowned for its Pinot Noir. Learn about the wine-making process from grape to glass, before diving in to try a selection of the estates’ finest. Chin chin!

If you’re more of a foodie, then treat yourself to a meal at one of ‘Europe’s Top 10 Beach Restaurants’ on the coast of Worthing. The Crab Shack  serves up the freshest crab, prawns, squid and mussels right beside the sea. Elsewhere, The Artisan Bakehouse puts on bread-making workshops where you can learn to make Mediterranean bread, enriched doughs and Viennoiserie. Or, ease yourself into sourdough with a two-day course – there are cottages onsite if you ‘knead’ somewhere to stay.

Spas in West Sussex

Baliffscourt Hotel

If kicking back and unwinding is more up your street, then you’ll be glad to know that West Sussex also has a surplus of spas to pick from. Built in the style of a Sussex barn, the spa at the Baliffscourt Hotel  makes for a luxury country escape with expansive windows that bring the outdoors in, two swimming pools and a wonderful choice of treatments for mind, body and spirit. Start your pampering session with an energetic class in the fitness studio, followed by a trip to the steam room and a dip in the outdoor hot tub. To make your visit even more indulgent, add on an afternoon tea or dinner at the hotel restaurant.

More staycation ideas 

Nestled in the West Sussex countryside, you’ll find the clean lines of Ockenden Manor Spa , a modern haven tucked away inside a 19th-century walled garden. Unwind in the unique pool where you can swim from indoors to the outside heated pool to soak up the views and choose from eight treatment rooms, sauna, steam room and hot tub and even an Isopod flotation water tank. Treat yourself to a much-needed massage before retiring to the lounge where you can pick from a range of smoothies and healthy bites to eat. If you’re short on time, you can opt for a morning spa retreat or stop by for an afternoon tea experience.

Gardens in West Sussex

Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens

Whatever the season, West Sussex is stuffed full of floral inspiration, with plenty of amazing gardens to visit – some big, some small, some wild and some calmly botanical. One of the most unique is Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens  – a Grade 1-listed garden set within a valley on a 240-acre estate. After being abandoned, the garden underwent the largest restoration in England and reopened in 2019, and is now famed for its outstanding displays of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, bluebells and ornamental rock garden. On your visit, you may even spot a rare colony of wallabies.

Covering over 500 acres, there are tons to see and do at Wakehurst . These wild botanic gardens are home to wetlands – where you can watch birds and insects in their natural habitat – as well as the Coronation Meadow, Rock Walk and the Millenium Seed Bank, said to be the world’s largest conservation project. Or, roam the Sussex Prairie Gardens , a must-visit in late summer for the dreamy combinations of perennials and grasses. Complementing the natural landscape, the garden also houses various artworks, sculptures and exhibitions.

Things to do in West Sussex

WWT Arundel

With parts of the county’s countryside under protected status, West Sussex is teeming with wildlife. See some of the species for yourself at WWT Arundel , a safe haven of wide-open spaces alive with wetland nature. Keep your eye out for harriers soaring above you as you explore a boardwalk of decks and bridges through reeds, lakes and woodland, or learn more about the landscape with a guided boat safari across the waters. You’ll pass a range of water-loving flora and may even catch a glimpse of seasonal wildlife like water voles, grey herons, snipes and tufted ducks. Safaris run daily come rain or shine and the wheelchair-accessible boats hold up to four people.

If you like being up close with wildlife, then you’ll love a day spent with West Sussex Falconry . After meeting and learning about the beautiful birds of prey, you’ll get to grips with handling them and experience them flying onto your glove. Small groups and a passionate teacher make this a day to remember. Alternatively, see the country from a different perspective by jumping in a kayak and enjoying a guided trip with The Kayak Coach  up the River Arun. As you leave Arundel Castle behind, you’ll pass through some of the most secluded nature reserves and countryside West Sussex. If you fancy giving back to the landscape, the company also runs river clean-up trips, as well as ‘leave no trace’ camping experiences that highlight sustainability issues in the area.

Places to stay in West Sussex

The Old Railway Station

Make tracks and stay in a Pullman Carriage at The Old Railway Station  in the heart of the South Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Originally built in 1892, the former train station and its decommissioned train carriages have had a serious makeover. There are six standard railway carriage rooms up for grabs, and two in the Station House – and breakfast, drinks and afternoon tea can be served directly to your abode.

Or why not take camping in West Sussex to a new level at an award-winning sustainable yurt village near Chichester? Nestled in woodland, Plush Tents Glamping  offers seriously high-spec luxury tents (complete with personal outdoor kitchen and hammocks) for those who really want to switch off. The site also has a communal yurt for activities like cinema nights, yoga classes and children’s workshops. If you prefer being above ground, check out the Blackberry Wood  treehouses in Streat, where you can choose to stay in a fairytale castle in the sky, a double-decker bus or even an old-school fire engine.

Beaches in West Sussex

West Witterings

West Sussex is famous for its coastal landscapes and what better way to get to know them than by braving the waters of Selsey to see crabs, prawns and pipefish up close, and explore wrecks, reefs and scenic drifts on a scuba diving trip with Mulberry Marine Experiences . If you’re better on your sea legs, try the art of kitesurfing across the waves with 2XS . Based on West Wittering’s Blue Flag beach, the club also offers windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding tuition.

Forgotten your cossie? Head to the ‘Pier of the Year’ – Worthing’s Victorian-come-Art Deco landmark jutting off the coast. Lined with colourful artwork, Worthing pier  makes for a top Instagrammable spot in West Sussex. Or whip out your wellies, grab a bucket and scout out some rockpools . From Shoreham to West Wittering, there’s an abundance of coastal critters waiting to be discovered.

Outdoor activities in West Sussex

South Downs National Park

Awarded National Park status just 10 years ago, the South Downs National Park’s  rolling hills, pretty villages, coastal views and extensive wildlife are just what you need for a relaxing rural break away from the rat race. Experienced mountain bikers will love the 100-mile-long South Downs Way  National Trail, an undulating and challenging route snaking through picturesque villages, hilly outcrops and along the chalky ridges of Seven Sisters – refuel or rest up for the night at The Blue Bell at Cocking , a friendly village pub just below the trail. More casual cyclists may prefer to take on the Centurian Way , a five-and-a-half-mile path that’s pleasantly flat (no hill climbing here!).

If you’re feeling glam, get behind the wheel of a supercar at Goodwood Motor Circuit , one of the UK’s most challenging race tracks. Perfect for speed freaks, you’ll get to take on the historic two-and-a-half-mile circuit on a range of driving experiences, including Spin & Slide, where the driving instructor will teach you how to master powerslides, handbrake turns and J-turns. Or take it down a notch and head to Southern Pursuits , where you can have a go a quad biking, clay pigeon shooting and even manning your own hovercraft.

Towns and cities in West Sussex

Discover local stories, tales and legends, and all the nooks and crannies, hidden boutiques and foodie gems of Chichester . With its cobbled Georgian streets steeped in history, leading theatre and art galleries, and hidden gardens, this cathedral city has lots going for it. As well as visiting Chichester Cathedral, which has stood proud since 1108, make sure to visit Market Cross – an iconic landmark – walk along the Chichester Canal to spot some of the wildlife that calls the area home, watch a show at Chichester Festival Theatre, one of the UK’s flagship regional theatres, and swing by Goodwood Estate to experience one of its many classic sports events.  

East of Chichester is Steyning , a charming little town home to picturesque high streets with an array of shops and historic buildings, as well as plenty of green space. Pay a visit to nearby Cissbury Ring (owned by the National Trust) –  it’s said to be the largest hill fort in the country, and on a good day you can see all the way to the Isle of Wight. For bucket-and-spade beaches, family-friendly amusements and one of Sussex’s most famous holiday camps , head to Bognor Regis .

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Places to Visit in West Sussex (England)

15 Best Places to Visit in West Sussex (England)

Far from the London sprawl, West Sussex is on the south coast where the English Channel shoreline is lined with continuous towns and seaside resorts.

Many of these, like Chichester and Arundel are historic and have compelling Roman, Saxon and medieval monuments.

Others, like Worthing and Bognor Regis are holiday centres, harnessing the sunny climate and pebble beaches for carefree summer days.

Inland are the rounded chalk hills of the South Downs, a region of thatched cottages, flint walls and genteel market towns.

This is the place for bike rides and walks in the national park and visits to idyllic villages with country pubs.

Lets explore the best places to visit in West Sussex :

1. Chichester

As the “ester” suffix in the name implies, Chichester has a Roman history.

But it could also be Britain’s earliest Roman history as Chichester may have been where Claudius’ army landed in AD 43. As you see it now, Chichester is a sophisticated Georgian city straight out of a Jane Austen novel.

In one of its many townhouses is the Pallant House Gallery, with a cache of 20th-century British art by Lucien Freud, David Bomberg, Peter Blake and many more.

Chichester Cathedral, from 1075, has the honour being the only English cathedral visible from the sea, and the walled Bishop’s Palace Gardens is a secret oasis of bright colour in spring and summer.

In the splendour of the South Downs, Arundel is an adorable town commanded by one of England’s most complete medieval castles.

Arundel was mentioned in the Domesday Book in 1086, and the castle had been founded in 1067 within months of the Norman Conquest of England.

It was damaged in the Civil War in the 1600s, but was restored in the 1700s and is now one of Sussex’s most-visited attractions, with an armoury, chapel, dry moat and vistas of the River Arun and countryside from its fairytale towers.

The cathedral in Arundel may look for all the world like it is medieval but actually dates to the 1800s, has a French Gothic style and was designed by Joseph Hansom famed for his Hansom horse-drawn cabs.

3. Petworth

With a heady mix of art, charming old streets and history, Petworth is a wonderful town in the South Downs.

You have to start with Petworth House, whose 19th-century owner George Wyndham was a close friend of J.M.W. Turner, who came to paint the deer park in the 1820s.

The stately home, owned by the National Trust, has lots of Turner paintings, and scenes from the acclaimed film, Mr Turner were shot here.

The centre of Petworth is a pleasure, especially on Lombard Street, a narrow cobbled alley snaking up to the yard of St Mary’s Church.

Being a well-to-do little town there are lots of antiques shops, artisan boutiques and galleries to browse.

4. South Downs National Park

A broad band across the middle of the county became a National Park in 2011. A great deal of this landscape is grassy, rounded chalk downs that reach substantial heights but also make for easy-going walks for their smooth slopes.

Every few miles in any direction there will be a thatched village with a bed & breakfast and pub, and if you’re up for an adventure the South Downs Way is a 100-mile footpath from Hampshire to East Sussex.

In West Sussex there’s a lot to see in rural areas.

Just north of Worthing is Cissbury Ring, where Neolithic cultures mined for flint.

The tallest hill, Blackdown, peaks at 280 metres and is where the Poet Laureate Alfred, Lord Tennyson retired in the late-19th century.

5. Worthing

West Sussex’s largest town has had the sobriquet “Sunny Worthing ” since the 19th century when well-off Victorians started arriving for their holidays.

The golden age of the British seaside has long gone, but Worthing gives the sense of a working town in good condition, that can turn into a bucket and spade resort as soon as the sun comes out.

The pier dates to 1862 and is a listed building, with a newly refurbished tearoom.

Worthing has all the amenities of a city, but you’re right by the lower slopes of the South Downs too.

And in the Sompting area just west of Worthing there’s a St Mary’s Church, a very historic Anglo-Saxon building completed well before William the Conqueror arrived and in great condition for its age.

6. Shoreham-by-Sea

Most people know Shoreham for its airport, which is better than it sounds: There are no airline flights and the airport is mostly for public aerobatic demonstrations and private pilots.

There’s a visitor centre at the terminal, which is a stylish art deco building completed in 1936. The beach at Shoreham is on massive a sandbank, which has been developed into an upmarket residential neighbourhood.

The long shingle beach is lovely for walks at any time of year, and the seascape here was painted by John Constable in 1828. Shoreham Fort is a peculiar reminder of a forgotten episode in history.

It was built in the 1850s when there was real concern about a French invasion during the rule of Napoleon III. The ditches, cannon wall, gun platform and the caponiers have all been restored recently.

In the Weald, a hilly ridge that sweeps across the centre and north of the county, Horsham is a prosperous and smart market town embedded in beautiful countryside.

You hardly have to leave the town before you’re ambling in peaceful green spaces at the ecologically-diverse Warnham Local Nature Reserve or Sumners Ponds, 40 hectares of secluded lakes.

As one of the larger towns in the area, Horsham is a shopping destination and its centre is full of period charm, with elegant houses from the Victorian and Georgian times.

One Georgian resident was Percy Bysshe Shelley, the Romantic poet born here in 1792 and future husband of Mary Shelley, author of Frankenstein.

The Horsham Museum will tell you all about this connection and much more.

8. Amberley

There’s unblemished nature on all sides of this gorgeous village in the South Downs National Park.

Amberley, on the east bank of the Arun, is noted for its thatched cottages, many with walls decorated with flint and flowery gardens out front.

There are tea rooms by the river and inns serving traditional pub food.

But if you’re in the mood for a lordly feast you could head for Amberley Castle, which is a fortified manor house from the 1300s and now a hotel and restaurant.

As for countryside, the Amberley Wild Brooks is on the Arun’s floodplain and sustains a variety of wildfowl in winter, while the Amberley Museum is dedicated to the old trades in the area like printing and pottery, and has a 1950s Fire Station and a working narrow gauge steam railway.

9. Midhurst

In the Sussex Weald, Midhurst is a country town that has some riveting stories to tell.

The town has plotted its own heritage trail taking you to a former Iron Age fort and pointing out the most significant medieval, Georgian and Victorian houses around the town.

There are more than 100 listed buildings in all, and none are as mysterious and impressive as Cowdray House.

This was one of England’s most prestigious Tudor Mansions: Henry VIII and Elizabeth I stayed here, and Guy Fawkes worked here in the late-1500s.

The house was destroyed by fire in 1793, but most of house’s towers and walls survive to create a spectral ruin.

10. Littlehampton

At the mouth of the Arun, Littlehampton is a seaside town with more of an earthy feel to resorts like Worthing and Bognor.

The most traditional part is the historic harbour along the east bank of the river estuary, where old waterside houses for fishermen are now cafes and fish and chip shops.

There’s a new promenade by the water and you can walk all the way down to Harbour Park by the seafront, which buzzes with visitors on warmer days and has lots for kids to get up to.

You catch a ferry to the east bank of the Arun and look back at all the old waterside buildings, or stroll along the beach where there are time-honoured amusements like pitch & putt, crazy golf and a little railway.

11. Fishbourne

Only one stop on the train west of Chichester, Fishbourne has a couple of big attractions to make the journey necessary.

The marquee attraction is the Fishbourne Roman Palace, which is an archaeological museum preserving the ground floor of a palace and supply fort established in AD 43, year one of the Roman invasion.

What’s intriguing is the way the palace was updated, with plain black and white mosaics overlaid in later years by glorious examples  of craftsmanship like the perfectly preserved Cupid on a Dolphin Mosaic.

Fishbourne also borders the Chichester Harbour Area of Natural Beauty, one of England’s only undeveloped natural harbours: A paradise for boaters and a haven for coastal wildlife.

Moments from the Hampshire boundary, Bosham is an impossibly cute village nestling beside an inlet on Chichester Harbour.

In the middle ages this was one of the most prestigious towns in Sussex, and was even mentioned in the Bayeaux Tapestry.

King Canute had a palace here in the early-11th century, and his young daughter is buried at the Holy Trinity Church.

This exciting building has a mixture of Saxon and Norman architecture and is one of the essential sights in the village.

The waterfront and Bosham Quay are adorable with a rustic maritime feel and unbroken views out over Chichester Harbour.

13. Bognor Regis

The resort of Bognor Regis is synonymous with the British beach holiday, the kind that almost  everybody in the country used to take until cheap flights abroad arrived in the 1970s.

One explanation for Bognor’s rapid rise was a quirk of the climate, as this location gets more hours of sunshine a year than anywhere else in the UK. And in July and August its charms are most obvious, when you can unfold a deck chair and sunbathe on the expansive pebble beaches, go for lunch at a seafront restaurant and amble around the town’s flower gardens at Hotham and Marine Park.

The pier is the venue for the International Birdman competition in early September, when human “birdmen” attempt to fly off the end of it.

You can guess how this pans out!

14. Bramber

For an English village, Bramber is a very visitor-oriented place, with several restaurants along its picturesque main street “the St”. The setting is as charming as any in the South Downs, with flint walls and cottages clad with ivy and wisteria.

For sight-seeing you can work your way up to the ruins of Bramber Castle.

Like many English fortifications, this landmark took some punishment in the English Civil war, but sections of its walls are still here and you can make out the earthworks of the original Norman motte and bailey castle.

Best of all is St Mary’s House, also on the St.

Many call this Tudor wonder the best timber house in West Sussex, and the interior has painted panelled rooms in the Elizabethan trompe l’oeil style.

15. Haywards Heath

One of the largest towns in the county, Haywards Heath is a thriving and prosperous place, perfect for a meal or shopping trip.

But for tourists the best thing about it is the proximity to some of West Sussex’s most revered National Trust properties.

Nymans and Wakehurst Place are the showstoppers in the area.

The former is a divine English country garden in the Arts and Crafts style of the early-20th century around the ruins of a “Jacobethan” manor house that was gutted by fire in the 30s and now stands as a solemn ruin.

Wakehurst Place meanwhile is managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens, and has landscaped wetland, woodland, ponds and walled gardens across two square kilometres.

15 Best Places to Visit in West Sussex (England):

• South Downs National Park
• Shoreham-by-Sea
• Littlehampton
• Bognor Regis
• Haywards Heath

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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.

Places to visit in Sussex

Sussex is filled with the beautiful South Downs National Park , the High Weald and Chichester Harbour, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (ANOB).  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, Worthing's natural playground, Chichester's Roman history and  Brighton's gastronomy. Discover more about the county's towns and villages using our interactive map of Sussex .

Top 10 things to do in Sussex

• Royal Pavilion , Brighton
• Drusillas Park , Wealden
• 1066 Battle Abbey and Battlefield , Battle 
• Kew's Wakehurst , Haywards Heath
• Fishers Adventure Farm Park , Billingshurst
• Arundel Castle , Arundel
• Pallant House Gallery , Chichester
• Petworth House & Park , West Sussex
• Chichester Cathedral , Chichester
• Brighton i360 , Brighton

Things to do in Sussex this weekend

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. Or why not browse our events guide to find out what's on in Sussex today or this week in the east and west of the county.

Drusillas Park in East Sussex is widely regarded as the best small zoo in Europe. However, animals are only half the fun; visitors can also explore the large adventure play areas and meet their TV heroes! 

The Sussex Guild Shop & Gallery, Lewes is 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.

Visit Arundel  with its thousands of years of history, independent shops, art galleries and restaurants. Wander the cobbled streets, explore the riverside or head off road to the South Downs for countryside walks and cycling. 

Accommodation

A day out in Sussex can easily be extended to two, three or more days, 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.

List of things to do & places to visit for days out in Sussex

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.

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Number of results: 254

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Rottingdean

Brighton & Hove

Rottingdean is an ideal place to spend an afternoon browsing the shops and galleries, relaxing in Rudyard Kipling's gardens or taking tea in a traditional English tearoom.

Drusillas Park

Animal Collection / Zoo

Make WILD memories and enjoy a great family day out at the award-winning Drusillas Park. Drusillas offers a loving home to over one hundred exotic animals, including sloths and penguins!

The Urchin Brewery & Shellfish Pub

Enjoy a plate of oysters with a pint of stout by the sea as The Urchin Brewery & Shellfish is keeping the dockyard spirit alive! With craft beer brewed on site and a selection of wine, there won't ever be any shortages of top class beverages as you…

Visit Arundel

Countryside, Parks & Gardens

Arundel captures the essence of heritage, urban chic and country pursuits, all within a stone’s throw of London. Experience our market town and you will discover more than you’d expect.

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery is located in the Royal Pavilion garden, at the heart of the city’s cultural quarter.

Bishop's Palace Gardens

Bishop's Palace Gardens is situated within the City Walls, next to the Cathedral. And it has now been developed by the council to offer a peaceful retreat for all to enjoy.

The Cat Inn

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.

Hove Lawns Beach

Hove seafront begins at Hove Lawns and stretches right along to Hove Lagoon, near Portslade. There is a stunning walk along the seafront, especially just as the sun rises or sets, from the West Pier onwards.

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 graced by wi

Hastings Museum and Art Gallery

Visit Hastings’ family-friendly and diverse Museum and Art Gallery for an exploration of art, heritage and history from around the world.

Alfriston is a must-visit village. On the banks of the Cuckmere River, at the foot of the beautiful South Downs and now situated within the boundaries of the new National Park, there is so much here to interest visitors.

Harbour Park

Adventure Park / Playground

Home to the sea, beach, riverside, picnic greens and buckets of laughs. A must do for any family planning a fun day out!

Amberley Museum

Tea Room/Coffee Shop

Visit Amberley Museum & Heritage Centre and immerse yourself in the nostalgia of the South East’s industrial heritage.

Wadhurst lies 6 miles south east of Tunbridge Wells, at the crossroads of the B2100 and the B2099. It has a long High Street of tile-hung cottages. At one time it was of great importance as a hub of the Wealden Iron Industry .

Sussex by the Sea

Wiston Estate Winery

Awarded Winery of the Year 2018, the beautiful family-run Wiston Estate offers Wine Tours by appointment from their vineyard nestled in the heart of the rolling South Downs in West Sussex. Each tour concludes with a guided tasting of their English…

River Adur - Coastal Link & Sculpture Trail

Natural Feature

Shoreham-by-Sea

The River Adur, an important trade route since Roman times, derives its name from the Celtic word 'Dwyr', meaning 'water'. It gives its name to the Adur District dividing it roughly in half.

Cliff Railways - East Hill

East Hill Lift provides easy access to the Country Park

Haywards Heath

In the heart of mid Sussex is Haywards Heath, which owes much of its growth to the railway. The town has an impressive collection of Victorian and Edwardian houses, many situated in mature grounds surrounding the Conservation Area of Muster Green.

The ancient Wealden village of Hawkhurst is widely known for its beautiful surroundings and long history.

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Top Things to Do in West Sussex

Things to do in west sussex, explore popular experiences, popular cities in west sussex.

Ways to tour West Sussex

Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex

• Cotswolds One Day Guided Cycle Tour - Private Groups

60 minute South Coast Helicopter Tour

Yoga, Forest Bathing and Foraging day retreat near Brighton

Mountain bike hire

• Arundel castle historic ships portsmouth

A weekend trip to the Fairytale Castles and Gardens

• Gems of the British countryside - sightseeing from Southampton

Cotswolds One Day Guided Walk - Private Groups

Brighton Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

Top attractions in west sussex.

Fun & Games

Self-guided Tours

Walking Tours

Full-day tours, historical tours, private sightseeing tours, what travellers are saying.

• Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens
• Tilgate Park
• Highdown Gardens
• Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens
• Hotham Park
• West Sussex Falconry
• Hawking About
• Huxley's Birds of Prey Centre and Gardens
• Kingley Vale
• Bosham Quay
• Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex
• Brighton and Arundel Castle or Petworth House Independent Full Day Private Tour
• Tangmere Military Aviation Museum
• Wings Aviation Museum
• Tulleys Farm

THE 10 BEST Hidden Gem Attractions in West Sussex

Best west sussex hidden gem attractions.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Hidden Gems
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Weald & Downland Living Museum

2. Tangmere Military Aviation Museum

3. Amberley Museum

4. Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens

5. Tinwood Estate Vineyard

6. Nymans Gardens and House

7. Highdown Gardens

8. West Sussex Falconry

10. Sumners Ponds

11. Bosham Quay

12. Kingscote Estate and Vineyard

13. Bolney Wine Estate

14. Tulleys Escape Rooms & Games

15. Bishop's Palace Gardens

16. English Martyrs Catholic Church

17. Hawking About

18. Parham House & Gardens

19. Kingley Vale

20. Huxley's Birds of Prey Centre and Gardens

21. Borde Hill Garden

22. Wings Aviation Museum

23. Uppark House and Garden

24. Amberley Castle

25. Sussex Prairies Garden

26. Bignor Roman Villa

27. Aldingbourne Country Centre

28. Ouse Valley Viaduct

29. Woolbeding Gardens

30. South Downs Planetarium and Science Centre

What travellers are saying

Find your adventure

For the best days out in Sussex

From award-winning vineyards and sumptuous spas to adrenalin filled laps around racetracks and gorgeous countryside, there’s something for everyone in Sussex.

Vineyards & Gardens

Theme parks & outdoor adventures.

Museums & Art Galleries

Forests, Lakes & Beaches

Castles & Historic Houses

Farms, Zoos & Aquariums

Cinemas, Theatres & Rainy Day

Top Picks. This months top attractions.

Drusillas Park

Make memories that last and enjoy a great family day out at the award-winning Drusillas Park. Drusillas offers a loving home to over one hundred exotic animals, including sloths, and penguins!

Harbour Park

Harbour Park, excitement for all age’s right on Littlehampton’s award winning sandy beach.

In our outdoor environment, take a spin on the Whirlpool Waltzer or swim the high seas with our friendly fish on the Ocean Coaster, try the family favourites such as the Dodgems and Adventure Golf. For the younger guests we have the spinning barrels, trampolines and much more.

Paradise Park

The Heritage Trail and Gardens at Paradise Park are the perfect day out for all ages. The Museum of Life is one of the finest exhibitions of its type in the country with life size moving dinosaurs and a spectacular collection of fossils, minerals and crystals.

The Sovereign Centre

Make a splash in the fun pool with wave machine and flume, aqua challenge assault course or 25m lane pool. For under 5’s there’s tumblers soft play, and for fitness enthusiasts there’s pay and play gym and classes. Plus a cafe for all to unwind.

Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden in Sussex. Managed by Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. With over 500 acres to discover, Wakehurst is home to a dramatic and diverse landscape ranging from managed ornamental gardens, temperate woodlands, an Elizabethan Mansion and a private nature reserve.

Fishers Farm Park

The multi-award winning Fishers Adventure Farm Park is the much-loved family day out in the heart of the lovely West Sussex countryside. Fishers offers a unique mixture of animal adventures, exhilarating indoor and outdoor play the whole family can experience – it’s no wonder that Fishers is still “Where the Family Comes First”.

Days out are precious.

Make yours special..

Whether you’re travelling solo, bringing a group of friends or you’re looking for fun for all the family, Sussex is jam packed full of things to do, places to see and experiences to remember.

1066 Country

Billingshurst

Bognor Regis

Burgess Hill

Crowborough

East Grinstead

Haywards Heath

Herstmonceux

Littlehampton

Petersfield

Shoreham by Sea

South Downs National Park

Wealden Country

Latest events

What’s on near you.

Looking to plan an extra-special day out? Look no further than our events calendar that’s full to the brim with local events and activities.

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

10 of the Best Historic Sites in West Sussex

Here are 10 unmissable heritage attractions in the county of west sussex, from iron age hillforts to dazzling roman palaces..

Kyle Hoekstra

19 may 2022, @kylehoekstra.

From proud manor houses in wooded countryside to ancient earthworks rooted in the undulating chalk hills of the South Downs, West Sussex has a range of historic sites to explore.

West Sussex harbours some of best-preserved Roman mosaics in the country at Bignor and Fishbourne, while the Ouse Valley Viaduct and Cowdray House indicate histories of ingenuity and strife.

Here are 10 of the best historic sites in West Sussex.

1. Arundel Castle

Originally built in the 11th century, Arundel Castle is the historic home of the Dukes of Norfolk. The first structure on the Arundel Castle site was built in the 11th century by the Normans. During the English Civil War , Arundel Castle was besieged twice – first by the Royalists who successfully captured the site and then by the Parliamentarians, in a siege lasting 18 days.

Parliament ordered the slighting of the castle after the war, which involved deliberately damaging it to reduce its value as a military stronghold. Today Arundel Castle remains a vast complex, with many original features still intact.

2. Cissbury Ring

Cissbury Ring is an Iron Age hillfort in the south of England, enclosing 26 hectares of chalky landscape on the West Sussex’s South Downs. It was first constructed around 4000 BC. From various positions on Cissbury Ring, there are excellent views of the surrounding landscape. To the north lies the historic woodland of the Weald. To the south, 80 miles of Sussex coastline.

Cissbury Ring is easily accessible to walkers along the South Downs Way, while the most convenient parking is located in Findon, near Worthing. The multi-day walk along the South Downs is also one of History Hit’s recommended Historical Hikes in England .

3. Bignor Roman Villa

Bignor Roman Villa is a large Roman villa site on the Bignor estate. Situated in West Sussex, the Villa complex hosts the remains of a 3rd century ancient Roman home , and some of the best-preserved Roman mosaics in the country.

The Villa has been owned by the Tupper family since 1811, when George Tupper accidentally stumbled upon Roman remains while he was ploughing. The site’s various rooms and mosaics have been beautifully preserved, alongside an in-house museum where visitors can view more of the artefacts that have been uncovered at the site.

4. Ouse Valley Viaduct

Known locally as Balcombe Viaduct, the Ouse Valley Viaduct is a landmark in Sussex, southern England, and a functioning bridge which for over a century and a half has carried the London-Brighton Railway Line over the River Ouse.

The viaduct was opened on 12 July 1841 and was principally designed by John Urpeth Rastrick as well as David Mocatta, who also designed Brighton Railway Station. It’s around 450 metres long and composed of distinctive semi-circular arches and arched vaulting which generate an impressive visual effect when seen from below.

5. Fishbourne Roman Palace

Fishbourne Roman Palace is the largest Roman residential site in Britain and provides a fascinating insight into Roman Britain . Built in 75 AD on the site of a Roman supply compound, the Place appeared soon after the Roman conquest of Britain.

Evidence suggests that in the late 3rd century Fishbourne was destroyed by a fire, leaving only the palace walls standing. Left beyond repair, it appears the site was never re-built beyond that date, with its remains lying lost and forgotten until their discovery in the 1960s.

There are many extremely well-preserved mosaics in Fishbourne Roman Palace, including the famous ‘Cupid on a Dolphin’ mosaic.

6. Racton Monument

Racton Monument is a folly built on a hill in Racton, West Sussex, south of Lordington House near Funtington. It has views over Chichester Harbour and to the Isle of Wight .

Racton Monument was commissioned by the 2nd Earl of Halifax, designed either as a summerhouse or to enable him to see his ships at dock at Emsworth harbour on the Solent, 3 miles away.

The monument remains in a state of ruin and in 2020 the South Downs National Park Authority refused an application to turn it into a dwelling. It has, however, reportedly hosted illegal raves and spectral apparitions.

7. Cowdray House Ruins

Cowdray House was a fortified Tudor manor house devastated by fire in the late 18th century. The 1st Viscount Cowdray commissioned a restoration project between 1909 and 1914, and today the ruins are Grade I listed due to their historical importance and beauty.

Henry VIII is known to have visited Cowdray House in 1538, 1539 and 1545, and Queen Elizabeth I visited Cowdray in 1591. The house was garrisoned by Parliamentary forces during the English Civil War.

8. The Trundle

The Trundle is an ancient hillfort in West Sussex which rewards visitors with a superb perspective of the coast as well as 360-degree views over the South Downs.

The first indication of people using the Trundle is between 4400 and 4200 BC, when the landscape of the Weald and South Downs was settled by people transitioning from seasonal hunting and gathering towards a more intensive working of the land.

Of the ancient settlements and historic sites embraced by the chalky swells of the Sussex Downs, the Trundle offers some of the most impressive views. From the top of the Trundle, visitors can gaze south towards Chichester harbour where it opens into the Solent, and beyond to the Isle of Wight.

9. Petworth House and Park

Petworth House is a late 17th-century Grade I listed country house located in West Sussex. The manor house was for centuries a home of the Percy family, Earls of Northumberland. Petworth is famous for its extensive art collection which includes works by Van Dyck, Turner and Gainsborough.

Petworth is also known for its deer park, landscaped by gardener and architect Capability Brown in the 18th century. Petworth House and Park is open seven days a week.

10. Chichester Cathedral

Chichester Cathedral was founded as a cathedral in 1075 and embraces fine architecture in both Norman and Gothic styles. It replaced the cathedral built by St Wilfrid in Selsey in 681. It contains carved reliefs from the 12th century and the tomb shared by Richard FitzAlan, 10th Earl of Arundel, and his wife Eleanor of Lancaster. It also features tapestries by John Piper and a stained-glass window by Marc Chagall.

The cathedral is located at the centre of the historic city of Chichester, beside the medieval town of Cross and close to the Novium Museum. Its spire is visible from the Trundle hillfort to the north, and it is the only medieval English cathedral which can be seen from the sea.

Discover the beauty of Sussex

Balcombe Viaduct

Mermaid Street, Rye

Chichester Canal

Rye Harbour Nature Reserve

Evening Walk, Knepp Estate

We may be biased, but we think that Sussex is one of the best counties, due to it offering a mix of beautiful coastline, picturesque villages and of course the South Downs National Park. Discover Sussex allows us to share some of our favourite things to do in Sussex , places to eat, walk and showcase a selection of our favourite Sussex businesses .

Sussex Anagram Of The Week: Last Weeks Answer: Serpent

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There's always lots of exciting events happening in Sussex so keep up to date with what's going on in the upcoming months! If you would like to add your event to our list please email us at [email protected] . If you would like to feature your event in an enhanced listing on our homepage, please get in touch .

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Explore great places to visit in West Sussex

West Sussex is bursting with inspirational things to do and see. Whether you’re looking for a coastal break, a relaxing weekend in the country or a jam-packed family holiday, we’ve got you covered. Explore our map below to find your next adventure.

• chichester surrounding
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• East Grinstead, Haywards Heath & Burgess Hill
• South Downs National Park
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Lots to see and do

Can’t decide where to explore first? Check out our itineraries , search by things to do or places to stay , or find out more about what makes West Sussex so special .

We are just 1 – 2 hours from central London and you can be deep in the countryside, high up on the hills of the South Downs National Park or beside the sea in no time. Check out your travel options here.

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Discover the local stories, tales and legends of West Sussex. Explore the shops and experiences, and meet the personalities that make our county an experience to treasure.

Discover the hyper-local stories and uncover more places to visit in West Sussex. Get the neighbourhood lowdown and the news from around our county by exploring our local tourism websites:

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Top Things to Do in West Sussex

Things to do in west sussex, explore popular experiences, popular cities in west sussex.

Ways to tour West Sussex

Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex

• Cotswolds One Day Guided Cycle Tour - Private Groups

60 minute South Coast Helicopter Tour

Yoga, Forest Bathing and Foraging day retreat near Brighton

Mountain bike hire

• Arundel castle historic ships portsmouth

A weekend trip to the Fairytale Castles and Gardens

• Gems of the British countryside - sightseeing from Southampton

Cotswolds One Day Guided Walk - Private Groups

Brighton Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

Top attractions in west sussex.

Fun & Games

Self-guided Tours

Walking Tours

Full-day tours, historical tours, private sightseeing tours, what travellers are saying.

• Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens
• Tilgate Park
• Highdown Gardens
• Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens
• Hotham Park
• West Sussex Falconry
• Hawking About
• Huxley's Birds of Prey Centre and Gardens
• Kingley Vale
• Bosham Quay
• Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex
• Brighton and Arundel Castle or Petworth House Independent Full Day Private Tour
• Tangmere Military Aviation Museum
• Wings Aviation Museum
• Tulleys Farm

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