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!
Awaken your inner explorer
Come and discover your new favourite destination. What can you expect? Here's a taster...
What's on this week in Sussex
Discover what’s happening this week and plan your perfect day out in Sussex.
The Ghost Train
- Jul 22, 2026 - Jul 25, 2026
Set in the mid 1920s, the action takes place in a waiting room at the remote wayside station of Fal…
Elmer and Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee
- Jul 16, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026
Elmer and Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee. Celebrate and explore David McKee's…
My Fair Lady
- Chichester Festival Theatre
- Jul 16, 2026 - Sep 5, 2026
Cockney Eliza Doolittle scrapes a living selling flowers on the streets of London. Her dream of…
Nature Photography Safari
This workshop is designed for people who are looking for opportunities to photograph nature and want…
House Tour
- Jul 16, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
Join us for an intimate guided tour around the house at Charleston in Firle. A knowledgeable visitor…
Gre
- Jul 18, 2026 - Sep 6, 2026
Celebrate a classic Great British Summer, inspired by timeless holiday traditions and a fun day out…
Kph Summer Concert
A showcase of talent from the students of KPH Vocals, featuring the incredible Horsham Musical…
Smiles For Life Fundraiser
Dance Wicked & EOC Events Present: Smiles for Life A Last Night A DJ Saved My Life Fundraiser…
It's Not A Game
Jay & Joss are the award-winning illusionists who stunned the judges on Britain's Got…
Teddy Swims Tribute
Teddy Swims tribute show with Teddy Sings.
Patrons'and Sponsors'Reception
This event is open to Festival Patrons only.
Knepp Rewilded Walled Garden Tour
- Jul 16, 2026 - Oct 8, 2026
A tour of the Rewilded Walled Garden with one of our specialist guides introduces you to the ethos…
Seascape Painting guided boat trip on Solar Heritage
Capture the beauty of Chichester Harbour National Landscape from the water with guidance from local…
Himalayan Balsam Bashing - Volunteer Days
Join our volunteer group to help tackle Himalayan balsam, an invasive plant that threatens native…
Festival Concert - Wesley, Parry & Brahms
Chichester Cathedral Choir and the combined girl choristers and lay clerks of Salisbury Cathedral…
Ropetackle Comedy Club
- Ropetackle Arts Centre
- Jul 16, 2026 - Nov 19, 2026
Shoreham’s funniest night out is back – and we’ve handpicked SIX of the very best comics on the…
Summer at Aldingbourne
- Jul 20, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026
Enjoy the return of our hugely popular Bounceabout, featuring giant bouncy castles and endless…
Summer Holiday Adventures
- Go Ape Crawley
- Jul 18, 2026 - Sep 1, 2026
Stop scrolling Go Ape! Searching for things to do in West Sussex this summer holiday? Head to Go Ape…
Rainbow Shakespeare 2026: Richard III
- Highdown Gardens
- Jul 16, 2026 - Jul 19, 2026
Rainbow Shakespeare returns to Highdown Gardens. Picnic under the stars in one of the most beautiful…
Festival Concert - Vivaldi, Copland & Hussey
The combined choirs of Chichester, Salisbury and Winchester Cathedrals perform a concert of choral…
Summer of Colour
- Chichester Cathedral
- Jul 16, 2026 - Sep 4, 2026
Discover a kaleidoscope of colour at Chichester Cathedral this summer. Inspired by the iconic John…
Needle Felting Workshop – Butterflies and Moths
Choose a beautiful butterfly or magnificent moth and recreate it using needle felt. You'll be…
Dream House Tours at Nymans
- Jul 16, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026
Join a tour around the outside of the house at Nymans, looking at the building and seeing how it…
Summer Programme
- Jul 16, 2026 - Nov 1, 2026
Our Summer Programme unfolds through earthworks, sculpture, tapestry, ceramics and large-scale…
Curious About Chichester
- Jul 16, 2026 - Oct 24, 2026
Unlock Chichester's Hidden Stories: Quirky Walks & Treasure Hunts Await! Ditch the ordinary…
Organ Recital: Markus Eichenlaub
Celebrated German organist Markus Eichenlaub (Organist, Heidelberg Jesuit Church) performs in…
Renaissance Choir - 50th Anniversary Concert
To include the well known Misere Mei by Allegri.
Gladys Hynes: Radical Lives
The first major exhibition devoted to Gladys Hynes (1888–1958), ‘Radical Lives’ reintroduces a…
Lake Academy of Dance: ICONIC - Moments & People that Refuse to be Forgotten
Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the moments, music, and stars that have captured our…
The Piano Show - Alistair McGowan
Alistair brings you the comedy and impressions for which he is known and loved, plays short piano…
Yarnbombers for St Michael's Hospice Seaside Trail
- Jul 17, 2026 - Sep 5, 2026
A vibrant, seaside-themed trail of 18 intricate yarnbombing installations is set to launch across…
Raku Pottery Workshops in The Woods
- Jul 19, 2026 - Sep 6, 2026
Experience the unpredictable magic of pottery and fire with Hot Fox Pottery, at our full-day raku…
Summer Sunday Music at Standen
- Jul 19, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026
Join us on Sunday afternoons for live music on the house terrace. Bring picnic rugs and chairs and…
Guided Tree Tours at Nymans
- Jul 16, 2026 - Nov 18, 2026
Join one of our expert volunteer Tree Guides for a 90-minute tour showcasing the magnificence of the…
Take The Stage!
Join us for an afternoon of music, dance, and unforgettable performances as our talented performers…
Mayukh Gangopadhyay & Chiranjit Mukherjee
Following two incredibly well received Indian Classical concerts, Cellar Arts Club presents the…
Spire Visits
- Chichester Cathedral
- Jul 22, 2026 - Sep 30, 2026
Ascend through nearly 950 years of history, guided by knowledgeable volunteers, to Chichester…
Midway Still
Midway Still are a top live band taking the stage and delving into their impressive back catalogue…
The Taste of Nature on Tap
- Jul 18, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026
Explore the remarkable inland chalk cliffs of Lewes with a drink in hand and a spectacular view…
Salt Water Comedy feat. James Dowdeswell
Eastbourne's much-loved standup comedy night has the wonderful James Dowdeswell headlining in…
The Three Musketeers
All for One; One for All! Young D'Artagnan is determined to join Athos, Porthos and Aramis as an…
Moore / Freud
- Hastings Contemporary
- Jul 16, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026
Moore / Freud will be the first exhibition to explore the distinctive ways in which Henry Moore and…
Singin' in the Sunshine
- Jul 16, 2026 - Jul 18, 2026
Worthing choir invites audiences to enjoy a summer celebration in song. The Rowland Singers are…
The Dresser
- Jul 16, 2026 - Jul 18, 2026
Presented by Southwick Players Directed by H Reeves Based on author Ronald Harwoods own experience…
Rogate Pumpkin Patch Ticket Release
- Jul 16, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026
The Rogate Pumpkin Patch is now in its 12th year. We'll close with our much-loved Pumpkin SMASH!…
Atlantis
- Chichester Festival Theatre
- Jul 18, 2026 - Aug 15, 2026
In a small coastal village in Wales, Bryn and Gwen learn they will be forced to abandon their…
CODA: A Tribute to Led Zeppelin
CODA are Europe's most authentic-sounding and looking tribute to the mighty Led Zeppelin…
Arundel Farmers Market
- Jul 18, 2026 - Dec 19, 2026
Arundel Farmers Market is brought to you by Arundel Town Council on the third Saturday of each…
Sussex Top Attractions
Head to Sussex Top Attractions to discover theme parks, zoo's, gardens and historic venues for a day out to remember this Summer!
Make a Splash in Sussex
From paddleboarding and kayaking to sailing and surfing, explore Sussex’s coast and waterways to find your next on-the-water adventure.
Ardingly Activity Centre
The tranquil Ardingly reservoir can be found 3 miles north of Haywards Heath. It is home to a number…
The Wey & Arun Canal
- Loxwood
Scenic boat trips can be enjoyed along the restored section of the canal at Loxwood. The boats…
Buzz Active - Eastbourne
- Royal Parade
At Buzz Active, we have something for everyone. Sailing and windsurfing at our Eastbourne…
Marine Life Walks
- Grafton Road
Our beaches are full of marine life just waiting for you to discover them; however, it can be small…
The Beach Watersports Bracklesham | Surf Club
- East Bracklesham Drive
The Beach Watersports Bracklesham is a friendly, professional surf school based on the Witterings…
Sussex Surf School
The Sussex Surf School specialise in paddle boarding, kayaking and Indo Boarding. Open for lessons…
Surfs SUP Watersports
- Farm Road
Surfs SUP Watersports offers lessons for paddleboarding, windsurfing, wingfoiling, sup surfing and…
BN1 Kitesurfing
BN1 Kitesurfing is A BKSA recognised Kitesurfing School specialising in Tuition & Coaching for…
Pulborough Paddles
- Stopham Road
Pulborough Paddles is a friendly, family-run canoe, kayak, and paddleboard hire business nestled on…
Shoreham Rowing Club
Rowing conditions around Shoreham are suitable for beginners and will also be enjoyed by more…
Fluid Adventures
- The Street
Fluid Adventures Ltd is a canoe and kayak company based near Chichester. We offer hires, guided…
Abyss Scuba School
- Ferry Road
Abyss Scuba School is a professional PADI dive centre based at Littlehampton Marina, offering unique…
Lancing Kitesurf Club
Lancing boasts one of the best kitesurfing spots in the UK and it is less than two hours from…
Camber Kitesurfing
- 123 Lydd Road
Camber Kitesurfing founder, Anthony was one of the first kitesurfers on Camber Beach back in 2000…
Rye Watersports
- Camber Road
Rye Watersports offers unforgettable watersports experiences on the beautiful Sussex coast…
Oyster Diving
- Basin Road North
The UK's premier PADI scuba diving and travel centre. We offer scuba courses, sea dives and have…
Buzz Active - Cuckmere Valley
- East Dean Road
At Buzz Active, we have something for everyone. Paddle sports, including paddle boarding and…
Oyster Diving
The UK's premier PADI Scuba Diving and Travel Centre, Oyster Diving specialises in providing diving…
Moxie Unleashed
Have fun, learn & improve as you 'find your moxie' on & off the water when you join…
The Kite, Surf and Sup Co.
Where better to learn to kitesurf than at a school established by a former windsurfing World…
Itchenor Sailing Club
- The Lane,
Chichester Harbour is home to more than 15 sailing clubs. Ichenor Sailing club can arrange…
Arun Divers
For those with some diving experience the West Sussex coast offers many great opportunities to…
The Kayak Coach - River Ouse
A long (but not overly strenuous!) guided kayak trip in one of the most picturesque settings in West…
Bodiam Boating Station
- Bodiam Boating Station
Welcome to our little piece of heaven, perfectly placed for you to explore the garden of England…
2XS Watersports
- West Wittering Estate,
Shop, hire and learn – 2xs is the place to go for all your watersports needs! Specialising in…
Cobnor Activities Centre Trust
- Chidham
Cobnor Activities Centre is a not-for-profit outdoor education charity located on the beautiful…
Chichester Sailing
- Chichester Marina
Chichester Sailing offer skippered charter aboard a 32' Catamaran based in Chichester harbour…
Mulberry Marine Experiences C.I.C
- Suite 2 Unit 16 Sherrington Mews
Mulberry Marine Experienes offer a full range of marine experiences off the coast of…
Brighton Kitesurf & Sup Academy (Lancing)
Equipped with over eight thousand hours of teaching experience, the team at Brighton Kitesurf…
Get Kiteboarding
Get kiteboarding is a kitesurfing and paddleboarding school based in Bracklesham Bay near West…
Chichester Marine Training
- Unit A1
A family run RYA Training Centre, based in Chichester Marina offering training courses for Power…
The Beach Watersports Littlehampton
- The Beach Club
The Beach Watersports Littlehampton is a purpose-built beach club and restaurant on Littlehampton…
The Kayak Coach - River Adur & Arun
A long (but not overly strenuous!) guided kayak trip in one of the most picturesque settings in West…
Buzz Active - Eastbourne
- Royal Parade
At Buzz Active, we have something for everyone. Sailing and windsurfing at our Eastbourne…
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
The Sussex coastline is Calling
Set your own pace along Sussex’s shore, with carefully crafted routes & itineraries that reveal sweeping views, charming seaside stops and hidden coastal treasures.
Feeling inspired? Book your stay in Sussex now
Find accommodation to suit every style, and start planning your Sussex getaway.
Top reasons to visit Sussex
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.
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.
All about the Sussex Coast
The Sussex coastline stretches 140 miles along the English Channel, bookended by Camber Sands in the east and Chichester Harbour and West Wittering in the west. This stunning coastline is filled with diverse beaches, nature reserves, seaside towns, and opportunities for adventure and relaxation! The area stretching from Worthing to Newhaven and Seaford to the South Downs National Park, is designated as a UNESCO Living Coast Biosphere, covering 700Km2 of rare and unique landscapes.
Discover Sussex stories
5 places to keep cool in Sussex this summer
- 5 min read
Your guide to a refreshing ‘cool‑cation’ in Sussex When the temperature rises…
Crossing from Sussex to France: The Newhaven to Dieppe Ferry Guide
- 12 min read
Everything You Need to Know About the Newhaven to Dieppe Ferry The Newhaven to Dieppe ferry crossing…
Cycling the Avenue Verte: Newhaven, Sussex & Beyond
- 15 min read
Newhaven: A Gateway Between Coast & Countryside Arriving into Newhaven from Dieppe in the…
Top 5 Arts festivals in Sussex
- 3 min read
Discover some incredible events in Sussex celebrating the Arts; from world-class Opera at…
How to Celebrate Winnie-the-Pooh’s 100th Birthday in Sussex
- 4 min read
Celebrate Winnie-the-Pooh’s 100th Birthday in Sussex A magical summer in the real Hundred…
Off the Beaten Track: 5 Hidden Food & Drink Spots in West Sussex
- 3 min read
There's something satisfying about finding a place that feels like a reward for getting off the…
Unmissable walks across Sussex
- 3 min read
Sussex is a county of incredible geographic contrast, offering everything from ancient woodland…
English Wine Week 2026 in Sussex
- 8 min read
Sip, sip, hooray! Celebrate English Wine Week in Sussex between Saturday 20 June and Sunday 28 June…
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…
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