Discover Sussex: coast, countryside, culture and more
From the rolling hills of the South Downs to the dramatic cliffs of the Seven Sisters, charming market towns and traditional seaside resorts, Sussex is a destination full of contrasts. Stretching from the coast to the countryside, and all within easy reach of London, it's a place where you can spend the morning exploring a historic castle, the afternoon wandering through vineyards and the evening enjoying a great local restaurant.
Whether you're planning a weekend break in Sussex, searching for somewhere special to stay or looking for things to do, there's plenty to discover. Explore miles of coastline, beautiful countryside, historic houses and gardens, independent shops, galleries, theatres and a thriving programme of events and festivals. Add award-winning food and drink, a flourishing vineyard scene and the distinctive character of Sussex's towns and villages, and you'll find a destination with something new around every corner.
From outdoor adventures and cultural experiences to relaxing escapes and memorable places to eat, drink and stay, start exploring Sussex and find your next adventure.
Sussex has a thriving creative scene, with a year-round calendar of events, festivals and experiences celebrating art, music, theatre and local talent. From live music and open-air performances to plays, comedy, art exhibitions and independent festivals, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the county’s cultural life. Get hands-on with creative workshops, try something new with an art course, or discover local makers, galleries and studios showcasing everything from traditional crafts to contemporary design. Whether you’re looking for an inspiring day out, a new skill to learn or an evening of entertainment, discover a different side of Sussex through its creative events, people and places.
Sussex is full of iconic places, rich history and unforgettable experiences. Explore our impressive castles and historic houses, discover the creative spirit along our 140 miles of coastline, and enjoy world-class culture, from opera at Glyndebourne to motorsport and events at Goodwood. Whether you're drawn to centuries of history, inspiring landscapes, independent arts or unique local experiences, Sussex offers plenty to discover. Explore our itineraries and local guides for inspiration and experience all that Iconic Sussex has to offer.
Sussex sights you won't want to miss
Set your own pace along Sussex’s creative coastline, explore our three National Parks & Landscapes or mix and match coast and country to create your perfect itinerary.
Click the ❤️ icon to add attractions, experiences, events, plus places to eat, drink and stay to your Trip Builder, accessed from the menu at the top of any page.
Sparkling Sussex
Sussex is one of the UK’s most exciting wine destinations, home to around a quarter of the country’s vineyards and renowned for its exceptional English sparkling wine. With its beautiful vineyard landscapes and growing reputation, the county is at the heart of England’s thriving wine scene.
Discover the Sussex Sparkling designation, sample award-winning wines and meet the passionate producers behind them. From vineyard tours and tastings to restaurants and seasonal events, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Sussex’s flourishing wine and food scene.
Explore Sussex with our local guides and itineraries
Discover the best of Sussex with local guides, travel tips and suggested itineraries to help you plan your visit. From coastal walks and historic towns to lesser known spots, along with fabulous food and drink, find inspiration for exploring Sussex.
Sussex offers a rich mix of coastal charm, countryside beauty and cultural heritage. Highlights include the dramatic cliffs of Beachy Head and Seven Sisters, the historic towns of Lewes and Arundel with their Castles and city of Chichester with a city-walls walk and Cathedral to explore. Nature lovers can explore the South Downs National Park, while history enthusiasts might enjoy Battle Abbey or the Roman remains in Chichester. There’s something for every interest, whether you’re after seaside strolls, stately homes or scenic walks or family days out.
Sussex is a year-round destination! Spring and Summer are especially popular for outdoor activities and coastal visits. From April to September, the weather is generally mild to warm, making it ideal for walking, cycling and beach days. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the countryside, while winter offers quieter towns and festive events. If you're planning to attend local festivals or events, it's worth checking our events calendar in advance.
Sussex is in the south of England, on the English Channel coast, just south of London. It includes East Sussex and West Sussex, with Brighton and Hove at its heart. The region stretches from the coastal towns and beaches of the south to the rolling countryside of the South Downs and High Weald, making it an easily accessible destination for a UK break.
How do I get to Sussex from London or other major UK cities?
Sussex is well-connected by road and rail. From London, direct trains run regularly to Eastbourne, Hastings and Chichester, Worthing and Littlehampton with journey times typically under two hours. If you're driving, the A23 and A27 are key routes into the region. Coaches also operate from major cities, and Gatwick Airport is conveniently located on the border of Sussex, offering easy access for international visitors.
Is Sussex suitable for family holidays? What are some family-friendly activities?
Sussex is a fantastic choice for families, with a wide range of activities to suit all ages. Children can enjoy sandy beaches, wildlife parks, castles and interactive museums. Popular spots include Drusillas Park, Fishers Farm, Knockhatch and the Bluebell Railway. There are also plenty of walking trails, outdoor play areas and seasonal events designed with families in mind. Whether you're travelling with children or teens, you'll find plenty to keep everyone entertained.
Can I visit the South Downs National Park while in Sussex?
Yes, you can visit the South Downs National Park while in Sussex, in fact, it’s one of the region’s standout natural attractions.
The park stretches across much of East and West Sussex, offering rolling hills, chalk cliffs, ancient woodlands and picturesque villages. It’s ideal for walking, cycling, horse riding and wildlife spotting. Popular access points include areas around Lewes, Arundel and Midhurst, and there are plenty of well-marked trails, including parts of the South Downs Way, a long-distance path that runs from Winchester to Eastbourne.
Whether you're looking for a gentle countryside stroll or a full day of hiking, the South Downs provides a peaceful and scenic escape. There are also local pubs, vineyards and heritage sites dotted throughout the park, making it easy to combine outdoor adventure with food, culture and history.
You’ll find a wide range of accommodation options across Sussex to suit different tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for a cosy countryside retreat, a stylish seaside hotel, or a family-friendly holiday cottage, there’s plenty to choose from. If you're visiting during peak times such as summer holidays or festival weekends then it's best to book in advance.
What public transport options are available within Sussex?
Public transport in Sussex is reliable and easy to use, with regular train services connecting coastal towns, countryside villages and key destinations like Lewes, Eastbourne and Chichester and along the coast. Local buses run throughout the region, including rural routes and links to popular attractions. Sussex is also well-suited to walking and cycling, with scenic trails and hire options available in many areas.
Sussex hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, from coastal festivals and food fairs to live music, theatre and seasonal celebrations. Whether you're planning a weekend visit or a longer stay, there's always something happening. You can explore current and upcoming events on our What's On pages.
What is there to see and do along the Sussex coast?
The Sussex coast offers a mix of lively seaside towns, peaceful beaches and dramatic clifftop views. Whether you're after a traditional day out at the seaside, coastal walks or fresh seafood, there’s plenty to explore. Discover more highlights and ideas on our Sussex Coast page.
Sussex is a dog-friendly destination, with many beaches, walking trails, pubs and places to stay welcoming four-legged visitors. Some attractions also allow dogs on leads. You can find tips and recommendations on our dog-friendly Sussex page.
Can I visit vineyards or try local food and drink in Sussex?
Sussex is known for its award-winning vineyards, farm shops and independent producers. You can enjoy wine tastings, food festivals and local specialities across the region. Visit our food and drink section to plan your tastings and tours.
Sussex is famous for its beautiful coastline, the South Downs, historic towns and villages, and its rich cultural heritage. It is also an important centre for English wine production, particularly Sussex sparkling wine, with vineyards offering tours, tastings and places to eat and stay. Other highlights include the historic Battle of Hastings, Being the home of Winnie the Pooh's Hundred Acre Wood, traditional seaside resorts and a calendar of festivals and events.
Is Sussex good for walking and outdoor activities?
Sussex is a fantastic destination for walking and outdoor adventures. The South Downs National Park offers miles of walking and cycling routes, including the famous South Downs Way, while the dramatic Seven Sisters cliffs provide some of England's most spectacular coastal scenery. Visitors can also enjoy watersports, horse riding, wildlife watching and exploring the woodlands, countryside trails and coastal paths of Sussex.
