Sussex. Extraordinary by nature.
Are you ready to discover a destination with a difference? Where rolling hills and chocolate-box villages are a pebble’s throw from traditional seaside towns and miles of coastline. The home to castles, cathedrals and country manors, with tales of Norman invaders and smugglers’ coves. A haven for walks and watersports, for bike rides and wellbeing breaks. Welcome to sparkling Sussex.
Culture vulture? Explore our galleries, museums, music venues and theatres. Total foodie? Savour stunning local produce at your soon-to-be favourite restaurant. Or how about hitting our independent boutiques, visiting our vineyards or booking tickets to an iconic event? It’s all here and so much more – and all right on London’s doorstep.
Easy to reach. Hard to leave.
Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or call the county home, you’re sure to find activities that’ll leave you feeling reinvigorated. Maybe it’ll be the sense of freedom you experience when surrounded by non-stop natural beauty. Or perhaps you’ll get your pulse racing and adrenaline pumping with an action-packed day by the water. And whoever you are, wherever you’re travelling from, you’ll always be greeted with open arms. In Sussex, we pride ourselves on welcoming everyone and anyone. Individuality is celebrated. Eccentricity is embraced.
On cloud wine
If you’re partial to a fine vintage, you can’t visit Sussex without stopping by our award-winning vineyards. And you really are spoiled for choice, in fact Sussex is home to 25% of Britain's Vineyards! From wine-tastings to tours, overnight stays to on-site dining, our vineyards offer curated experiences in incredible locations.
So, what will be first on your list? Start exploring everything Sussex has to offer, whether you’re looking for things to do, wondering what’s on, planning where to stay or researching the best food and drink spots. See you soon!
Discover Sussex Vineyards in 2026
Sussex Winelands
Sussex wine is celebrated for its quality and variety, particularly its…
Awaken your inner explorer
Come and discover your new favourite destination. What can you expect? Here's a taster...
Sussex in Bloom
Discover world-class gardens, flower festivals and historic houses in Sussex this Spring
West Dean Gardens
Nestled at the foot of the South Downs, West Dean Gardens in West Sussex is one of the greatest…
Wakehurst
- Wakehurst
Have a day out like no other at Wakehurst, Kew's wild botanic garden. With over 500 acres to…
Sheffield Park and Garden
About Sheffield Park and Garden The Grade I listed garden is a horticultural work of art formed…
Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens
Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens is described as ‘The Finest Woodland Gardens in England’. Its rich…
Arundel Castle
No trip to West Sussex is complete without visiting the magnificent Arundel Castle. Set high on a…
Pashley Manor Gardens
- Pashley Road
At Pashley you will discover 11 acres of beautiful borders and vistas - the culmination of a…
Great Dixter House & Gardens
- Great Dixter
Great Dixter is a garden you can immerse yourself in, vibrant, daring and exciting. Originally home…
High Beeches Woodland and Water Garden
- High Beeches Lane
High Beeches is a 27 acre woodland garden near Handcross. It is a garden of meandering paths and…
Nymans
- Staplefield Road
One of the National Trust’s premier gardens, Nymans has views stretching across the Sussex Weald…
Standen House and Gardens
Discover the arts and crafts movement at the Standen family home and explore life as it would have…
Tulleys Farm
Tulleys Farm is a large event space on the outskirts of Crawley, famous for its Halloween fright…
Borde Hill Garden
- Borde Hill Lane
Borde Hill is a 2,000-acre Estate which has been owned by the Stephenson Clarke family for over 130…
Michelham Priory House & Gardens
Explore 800 years of history at Michelham Priory House and Gardens, set on a picturesque moated…
Herstmonceux Castle Estate
- Herstmonceux Castle
Herstmonceux Castle is rich in history dating back to the 15th Century, commissioned by Sir Roger…
The UK's newest National Nature Reserve is opened Sussex
Find out more about the Seven Sisters National Nature Reserve, as opened by King Charles III on 19th March 2026!
Explore a royal coastline in Sussex
Discover the iconic Seven Sisters and the King Charles III England Coast Path in Sussex
What's on this week in Sussex
Botanical Silk Scarf Workshop: The Art of Natural Dyes
Extract colour naturally from flowers and plants to create your own 100% silk scarf to take home…
Carmen and Turandot
Two abridged Operas, Carmen and Turandot, semi-staged with principals and chorus, sung in English
Newhaven Fort
- Jun 5, 2026 - Nov 1, 2026
Visitors are welcomed back to Newhaven Fort this February half term, as the historic site reopens…
Nymans’ Outdoor Theatre - A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Join us for this adaptation of William Shakespeare's much-loved story, set against the backdrop…
Rogate Pumpkin Patch Ticket Release
- Jun 5, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026
The Rogate Pumpkin Patch is now in its 12th year. We'll close with our much-loved Pumpkin SMASH!…
The Verdict: An Inventive Evening Of Courtroom Comedy'
- Jun 11, 2026 - Jun 13, 2026
Step into the Slindon Coronation Hall and enjoy a comedic take on a captivating tale of justice…
Outdoor Family Theatre - Pinocchio
Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi, adapted by Oliver Gray Illyria brings Carlo Collodi’s magical…
Servants Tour of Stansted House
Join us below stairs for a special tour focusing on the lives of the individuals who worked at…
The Pickwick Papers at Saint Hill Manor
An al fresco farce for all the family! Join the lovable Mr. Pickwick and his eccentric band of…
Coffee Concert: Jane Gordon
Jane Gordon Described as playing with glowing conviction (Financial Times) and possessing a…
Mindfulness Photography Workshop
Mindful photography is perfect for finding calm in your day, de-stressing and boosting your mood…
Sussex Concert Orchestra
Sussex Concert Orchestra presents Grieg Two Norwegian Dances, Sibelius Violin Concerto and…
Harbour Discovery boat trip on Solar Heritage
- Jun 10, 2026 - Jun 24, 2026
Experience the beauty, wildlife and history of Chichester Harbour National Landscape on our…
Gardening a Wilder Garden Workshop
- Jun 10, 2026 - Aug 12, 2026
Led by Knepp’s senior gardening team, this in-depth workshop explores the practical aspects of…
Pour Your Own Brighton Seascape in Resin
Capture the colours and textures of the Sussex coast in a hands-on resin workshop inspired by…
Let There Be Love
- Jun 10, 2026 - Oct 14, 2026
The Royal Hippodromes much loved Summer Season makes its welcome return this year with a celebration…
Chichester Cathedral Festival of Flowers
- Chichester Cathedral
- Jun 5, 2026 - Jun 6, 2026
The Festival of Flowers is a four day spectacular in the setting of Chichesters 950 year old…
Shadow Culture Debut
Shadow Culture: Tom Fryer Has Been Performing And Producing Music Since The Age Of 16. He Cut His…
Race Meeting
- Jun 5, 2026 - Jun 7, 2026
Afternoon Flat Racing. Check venue for exact opening and race times.
Charley's Aunt
- Jun 11, 2026 - Jun 13, 2026
How hard can it be to start a podcast? Jack and Charley are struggling influencers - isn't…
British Music Hall Society: Day By The Sea
NNow a highlight of the Eastbourne theatrical year, the British Music Hall Society returns for its…
Halloween Ghost Walk Pevensey
- Jun 6, 2026 - Jul 25, 2026
A 90 minute Guided Ghost walk of Pevensey. Meet Castle Car Park for a guide walk hearing some of the…
Guided Tree Walks
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of trees on a guided walk through our historic, Grade I…
Open Woods & Workshops
Come to our Open Day. "Championing the good use of homegrown timber from sustainable productive…
M@D On The Beach ft Smokin Jo
Smokin Jo is unquestionably one of the most talented DJs to emerge from the British dance music…
Sheila's Island
- Jun 8, 2026 - Jun 13, 2026
This much-loved play follows four middle-aged women on what is meant to be a team-building weekend…
Guided Tour of Stansted House
Join one of our knowledgeable tour guides for a Guided Tour of Stansted House. Discover the family…
Mike Hatchard's Jazz Breakfast With Django Chutney
High energy, fun and brilliantly talented musicians from Brighton and Shoreham! Their success has…
Adele Tribute
Adele tribute show with Helen Ward-Jackson.
Contemporary Art at Sullington
- Jun 11, 2026 - Jun 21, 2026
An exciting exhibition bringing in contemporary artists, all curated by esteemed duo Penny Gambrill…
A Dangerous Novelty? The Age of Electricity at Standen
- Jun 5, 2026 - Jun 21, 2026
This new exhibition tells the story of Standen as one of the first country houses to be designed…
Serenata Guitar Trio: A concert of timeless melodies
A recital of timeless melodies from South America, Spain, the Baroque era and the movies. Serenata…
Two Ship Festival!
Improvised music from touring musicians and local artists.
Sussex Tree Festival
- Jun 5, 2026 - Jun 7, 2026
The Tree Festival – a celebration of trees in Sussex – is back! This year's festival includes…
House Tour
- Jun 5, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
Join us for an intimate guided tour around the house at Charleston in Firle. A knowledgeable visitor…
Painting Charleston: A Watercolour Exploration
Join us for day of creative calm, exploring the character and charm of Charleston through…
June Moth Morning
Join Reserve Manager Suzi Lanaway to see what the moth traps on our survey attracted the night…
'Brothers in the Blues' Replayy
Woodstock legend Miller Anderson, Bob Brookes, Derek Austin, Jeremy Sherman, Jim Barr & Chris…
Junior & Youth Cycle Club
Local cycling group for young people, held on Fridays at Eastbourne Sports Park.
Chichester in Bloom
- Jun 5, 2026 - Jun 7, 2026
This June, Chichester is set to burst into bloom. To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Chichester…
Whitney Houston Tribute
Whitney Houston tribute with I'm Your Whitney Tonight.
The Actress by Peter Quilter
- Jun 5, 2026 - Jun 13, 2026
The Actress is a witty and touching backstage comedy about fame, family, and farewell. Set in a…
The Sound of Music
- Jun 6, 2026 - Jun 13, 2026
The much loved, family favourite musical detailing the life of Maria Rainer and the Von Trapp family…
Optics Demo Day
Want to experience wildlife in stunning detail? Our monthly Optics Days are here to help you find…
Dream House Tours at Nymans
- Jun 5, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026
Join a tour around the outside of the house at Nymans, looking at the building and seeing how it…
Race Meeting
Afternoon Jump Racing. Check venue for exact opening and race times.
Knepp Rewilded Walled Garden Tour
- Jun 5, 2026 - Oct 8, 2026
A tour of the Rewilded Walled Garden with one of our specialist guides introduces you to the ethos…
Roof Visits
- Chichester Cathedral
- Jun 10, 2026 - Jul 11, 2026
Ascend through nearly 950 years of history, guided by knowledgeable volunteers, to theroof spaces of…
15 ideas for Solo travellers
Thinking about exploring Sussex on your own? Our guide gives inspiration for the best ways to visit Sussex as a solo traveller, with ideas that range from peaceful coastal walks to vineyard tours, historic towns and creative experiences.
Feeling inspired? Book your stay in Sussex now
Find accommodation to suit every style, and start planning your Sussex getaway.
Enjoy a taste of our vineyards...
Top reasons to visit Sussex
A foodies guide to Sussex
Sussex has a vibrant and varied food scene. From farm-to-fork restaurants and vineyard dining to award-winning pubs and Michelin-starred cuisine you…
Sussex shines in the Michelin Guide
The 2026 Michelin Guide has officially been released, and Sussex has once again earned it's place as a must-visit culinary destination. With six…
Food and drink
Sussex has exceptional local produce and world class vineyard estates on its doorstep.
De La Warr Pavilion
- Marina
A pioneering centre for the arts located in Bexhill, established in 1935. A place where everyone can experience contemporary exhibitions…
Hastings Contemporary
Hastings Contemporary is a bold, independent arts charity in the heart of Hastings Old Town. Situated on the town’s historic fishing beach, we…
Towner Gallery
Collecting and exhibiting contemporary art for 100 years, Towner Eastbourne sits where the coast and the South Downs meet. Towner presents exhibitions…
Tours & Experiences
From historic landmarks and charming villages to scenic coastlines and award-winning vineyards, explore the best of Sussex with local expert guides…
Watersports
With a 100-mile coastline and calm inland waterways, there’s nowhere better than Sussex for diving into watersports. A calm paddleboard along…
Top 4 Coastal Walks in Sussex
Explore stunning walks along the beautiful Sussex coastline, following the King Charles III England Coast Path.
Discover Sussex stories
Coastal Hotels in Sussex with Sea Views: Where to Stay by the Sea
- 4 min read
Few things rival waking up to the sound of waves and uninterrupted sea views. Along the Sussex…
48 hours in Eastbourne: how to spend the weekend in England’s sunniest seaside town
- 5 min read
Oh we do like to be beside the seaside, and Eastbourne is the epitome of English coastal nostalgia…
Step into Sussex: Things to Do Near London Gatwick Airport
- 8 min read
Flying into, or out of, London Gatwick Airport? The UK’s second-largest airport is located in…
A Summer to Savour: Seasonal Vineyard Events Across Sussex
- 4 min read
Slow down and savour summer among Sussex’s vineyards If summer is your cue to slow down…
20 things you can only see and do in Sussex
- 9 min read
20 Unforgettable Things You’ll Only Find in Sussex Sussex is a wonderfully distinctive county…
Father’s Day ideas in Sussex: five ideas to treat Dad
- 3 min read
Father’s Day is about spending time together and enjoying experiences that feel thoughtful…
Sussex Guide: Artists Open Studios, Art Trails and Craft events
- 9 min read
Sussex offers one of the most rewarding ways to experience art in the UK, far beyond the walls of…
How to Experience the Seven Sisters: Routes, viewpoints and coastal magic
- 5 min read
Few landscapes in England feel as instantly recognisable as the Seven Sisters. These striking chalk…
Our Guide to the most unique places to stay in Sussex
- 5 min read
Unusual places to stay in Sussex to turn your break into an experience! Looking for somewhere to…
Gardens as laboratories: what Sheffield Park is teaching us about our future landscapes
- 3 min read
Joe Perkins is the designer of the A Garden for the Future at the National Trust’s Sheffield…
Explore the Wealden Wine Trail
- 5 min read
Discover the Wealden Wine Trail Tucked away among rolling hills, ancient woodland and charming…
Best budget-friendly Family Days Out in Sussex
- 6 min read
Planning a family break or day out on a budget? Experience Sussex has curated a selection of ideas…
Find your 'Wild' in Sussex
- 4 min read
Sussex is a place where nature still feels wonderfully alive. Rewilded estates echo with birdsong…
Discover the stunning gardens of Sussex
- 7 min read
If you’re looking for inspiration for a day trip where you can make the most of your natural…
Explore the Arun Valley Line with Beyond the Rails podcast
- 5 min read
Explore the Arun Valley Line: coast, castles and easy escapes from London Looking for a day out that…
7 Ways to Really Slow Down on a Sussex Calmcation
- 6 min read
The idea of the “calmcation” has appeared everywhere recently, but in practice it…
Ideas for Mother's Day in Sussex
- 6 min read
Thoughtful Ways to Treat Mum This Mother’s Day in Sussex Mother’s Day is the perfect…
Historic Sussex Pubs: Where every pint comes with a story
- 5 min read
Sussex tells its tales in the warm glow of pub firelight. Step into an old inn here and…
USA 250: Anglo-American Connections in Chichester
- 5 min read
In 2026, the United States of America commemorates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of…
USA 250: Exploring a Legacy of Liberty in Lewes
- 5 min read
As the United States marks its 250th anniversary in 2026, commemorating a semiquincentennial of…
Sussex and the Declaration of Independence: A Hidden Connection
- 4 min read
Sussex holds one of the most intriguing links to American history: an original copy of the…
Step into Sussex's Great Outdoors
- 3 min read
In the heart of Sussex, Pied A Terre Adventures has established itself as one of the region’s…
Sussex Lifeboat Stations: A Coastal Trail of Courage
- 3 min read
Discover the Lifesaving Legacy Along the Sussex Coast The Sussex coastline is a treasure trove of…
From the British Museum to Battle: visit the Sussex sites from the Bayeux Tapestry
- 5 min read
With the Bayeux Tapestry being loaned to the British Museum in London later this year, from…
Helpful information for planning your Sussex trip
From travel, weather and accessibility information and more, find everything you need to help plan your stay in Sussex
Visitor Information