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!
Win a 2 night stay at The View Hotel Eastbourne
Win a Sussex seaside escape with a two-night stay at The View Hotel Eastbourne, plus a memorable experience for two by land or sea.
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
Cassidy Paris
Australian rocker Cassidy Paris has a very bright future ahead of her. Raised on classic hard rock…
Musical Revue
A spectacular celebration of musical theatre at its very best. Our Musical Revue Showcase brings…
Bing Selfish and Pals
A spectacular evening with Bing Selfish: The Crown Prince of Avant-Garde Pop, the dapper crooning…
Coffee Concert: Simone Alessandro Tavoni
Coffee Concert: Simone Alessandro Tavoni (piano) & Idlir Shyti (cello) This recital for piano…
Theatre Tour
- May 16, 2026 - Nov 4, 2026
The Royal Hippodrome Theatre Friends invite you to discover the history of Eastbourne's oldest…
Rory Sparkes and the Elephant in the Room
Hugh Bonneville, beloved by many as Mr Brown in the 'Paddington' films, introduces his first…
Make Your Own Cushion Cover - Block Printing Workshop
Design, print and craft your own bespoke cushion to take home. Immerse yourself in creativity this…
Billy Fury meets Elvis Presley
Let us take you back in time with the music of two kings of rock and roll. With hit songs: Jealousy…
Adrien Brandeis presents Handmade
Adrien Brandeis presents Handmade, his fifth album, recorded live at Bechstein Hall in Manchester. A…
Seth Lakeman
Seth Lakeman is a British folk singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his…
Ben Ottewell
As a singer and lead guitarist in rock band Gomez, Ben Ottewell is well known for his unmistakable…
Whitesnake UK
WhitesnakeUK play tribute to the very best of David Coverdale's multi platinum selling band…
Race Meeting
Evening Jump Racing. Check venue for exact opening and race times.
Perfume Creation Workshops
Discover some of the hidden secrets of perfumery and take home a bottle of fragrance created by you…
Elmer and Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee
- May 12, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026
Elmer and Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee. Celebrate and explore David McKee's…
Summer Programme
- May 12, 2026 - Nov 1, 2026
Our Summer Programme unfolds through earthworks, sculpture, tapestry, ceramics and large-scale…
Beekeeping Taster Day
Enjoy a day learning all about the fascinating world of beekeeping. The day begins with a classroom…
Generation Why
- May 13, 2026 - May 26, 2026
As seen on HBO & BBC, Dian Cathal brings you a new comedy hour about the best and worst of the…
Sue, Matt and Phil LIVE! The Reunion Tour
Sue Barker, Matt Dawson and Phil Tufnell are back in this exciting and hilarious live show . Joining…
Hip Hop State of Mind
Hip Hop State of Mind is the newest over 25's hip hop night in Worthing. Three themed nights…
The Power of Music
From winning BBC Young Musician ofthe Year in 2016 to playing at Harry and Meghan's wedding…
Encaustic Wax Painting
This Friday daytime class explores Encaustic Wax Painting which is both an ancient and contemporary…
Let There Be Love
- May 13, 2026 - Oct 14, 2026
The Royal Hippodromes much loved Summer Season makes its welcome return this year with a celebration…
Model Boats on the Lake
- Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens
- May 16, 2026 - Sep 20, 2026
See the Schooner Radio Control Group in action on the Lakes at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, and…
Friends Guided Tour of The Bishop's Palace
On Wednesday 13th June, and with the kind permission of Bishop Martin, we are delighted to invite…
Birdsong Identification
- May 14, 2026 - May 21, 2026
Take an early morning amble through the spring woods to discover and learn some birdsongs. Sarah…
Chantel McGregor
The Blues came calling first, but rock was always waiting around the corner. Well it would be…
Make Magical Wings
Get creative in the Orchard Tent! Our family workshops are designed for sparkling imaginations and…
Spire Visits
- Chichester Cathedral
- May 13, 2026 - May 30, 2026
Ascend through nearly 950 years of history, guided by knowledgeable volunteers, to Chichester…
Emergence: BA Design Degree Show
- May 13, 2026 - May 17, 2026
An exhibition showcasing the work of students on the University of East Anglia-validated…
Sneak Peek Tours at Nymans
- May 12, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026
Take a behind the scenes look inside the house on a sneak peek tour. Tours last approximately 30…
Backstage Tours
- Chichester Festival Theatre
- May 12, 2026 - Oct 17, 2026
Our 75-minute guided tour is a brilliant way to explore how theatre is made! Discover our backstage…
Magic
- Chichester Festival Theatre
- May 12, 2026 - May 16, 2026
Harry Houdini is the greatest illusionist the world has ever known. Arthur Conan Doyle is the…
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Saturday Stage School Present their production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Junior.
Newhaven Fort
- May 12, 2026 - Nov 1, 2026
Visitors are welcomed back to Newhaven Fort this February half term, as the historic site reopens…
Spring into Medmerry
Join our enthusiastic and friendly team of guides for a walk from Earnley Car Park to the Slit Pool…
Garden Sculpture Trail with FiveTwo Designs Ltd
- May 12, 2026 - Jul 14, 2026
Don't miss the chance to visit the gardens and admire the sculptures. This is a uniqie…
Guided bird-watching boat trip on Solar Heritage
Chichester Harbour is nationally and internationally important as a site for coastal birds. As a…
Traditional Indian Block Printing
Learn the age old process of block printing with Jenney Kelly in The Studio here at Leonardslee…
Rustic Jar Craft Workshop
Join Kirsty from Make, Do & Trend for this popular workshop, where you'll craft beautiful…
Horrid Henry
Join much-loved author Francesca Simon as she brings the irrepressible 'Horrid Henry' to…
Curious About Chichester
- May 12, 2026 - Oct 24, 2026
Unlock Chichester's Hidden Stories: Quirky Walks & Treasure Hunts Await! Ditch the ordinary…
Material Things XIX 2026
- May 12, 2026 - Jun 2, 2026
Wendy Dolan and Louise Bell return with their beautiful, handmade quilts and stitched textile…
Shhh...
- May 12, 2026 - May 31, 2026
Shhh… explores how autonomy and intimacy coexist, how two distinct practices can resonate without…
Shhh... Isobel Smith & Abigail Norris
- May 14, 2026 - May 31, 2026
Shhh… explores silence as a charged force. Abigail Norris and Isobel Smith met weekly, guided by a…
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.
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
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…
9 Top Glamping Spots in Sussex for Peaceful Getaways
- 7 min read
Looking for a slower, softer escape? A Sussex calmcation offers the perfect opportunity to press…
Winnie-the-Pooh at 100: visit the Sussex locations of the beloved books
- 5 min read
Winnie-the-Pooh at 100: visit the Sussex locations of the beloved books “If you live to be a…
Top events in Sussex for 2026
- 4 min read
Looking for the best events in Sussex in 2026? From world-class festivals and historic celebrations…
Winnie-the-Pooh and the Sussex Countryside: A Storybook Journey
- 2 min read
Discover the Sussex Roots of Winnie-the-Pooh Few stories have captured hearts across generations…
Where to Stay in Sussex for Stargazing Adventures
- 3 min read
The combination of rolling chalk hills, open heathland and quiet coastal plains makes Sussex a dream…
Castles and Forts of Sussex: A Journey Through Time
- 5 min read
Sussex is a county where history is etched into every hill and valley. Its castles tell stories of…
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