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!
Seen it on TV?
Find the locations and people featured in Episode 4 of the Channel 5 series, Sussex: Jewel of the South Coast
Great Dixter House & Gardens
- Great Dixter
Great Dixter is a garden you can immerse yourself in, vibrant, daring and exciting. Originally home…
Restaurant Interlude
"OUR STORY in·ter·lude \ ˈin-tər-ˌlüd A period or event that comes between two others and is…
Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens
Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens is described as ‘The Finest Woodland Gardens in England’. Its rich…
Sussex Dolphin Project - Newhaven
- West Quay
Join the Sussex Dolphin Project on our relaxed Sunset wildlife boat cruise to learn about our…
Sussex Boat Trips
- Beacon Drive
No visit to East Sussex is complete without a boat trip along the South Downs coastline. Experience…
Sussex takes centre stage in new TV series
Sussex: Jewel of the South Coast
Tune in to Channel 5, starting Saturday 25 July at 8pm to see Sussex on screen!
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.
Backstage Tours
- Chichester Festival Theatre
- Aug 24, 2026 - Oct 17, 2026
Our 75-minute guided tour is a brilliant way to explore how theatre is made! Discover our backstage…
Elvis Tribute
Elvis tribute act Elvis Legacy.
Interpreting Walls - Interpreting the history and architecture of Pevensey
- Aug 29, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026
A walk with Rod, Court House volunteer, starting at the Court House and looking at some of the walls…
Discovery Day – Grappling with Grasshoppers!
Discovery Day – Grappling with grasshoppers! Whilst hunting for mini-beasts and pond dipping in our…
John Doyle
Over the past 20 years, John Doyle has established himself as the guitarist-accompanist of choice…
Dragonfly Foot Safari
- Arundel Wetland Centre
- Aug 24, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026
Pick up a spotter sheet and discover dazzling dragonflies on this self-led quest all around WWT…
Summer of Adventure
- Weald and Downland Living Museum
- Aug 24, 2026 - Sep 4, 2026
A summer of play, discovery and unforgettable family adventures! Where will your adventure take you…
Chichester Family Art Trail
- Aug 24, 2026 - Sep 1, 2026
Discover Chichester's vibrant arts and cultural scene with this free Family Art Trail, designed…
Willow Fairy & Dragon Trail
- Aug 24, 2026 - Sep 6, 2026
This summer, High Beeches Garden welcomes the return of the magical Willow Fairy and Dragon Trail…
Pondemonium Silent Disco
- Arundel Wetland Centre
- Aug 24, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026
Immerse yourself in the magic of the music through headphones and celebrate the grace and power of…
The Glenn Miller Orchestra
The Glenn Miller Orchestra features the same stage line-up as Glenn Miller’s original big band, and…
Walter Sickert: Working Notes
- Aug 24, 2026 - Oct 11, 2026
Discover a fresh perspective on Walter Sickert, one of the most provocative figures in early…
Discovery Day – Pollinators and Pond dipping
Whilst hunting for mini-beasts and pond dipping in our Discovery Zone, we'll take a look at some…
Family Summer Holiday Activities
- Aug 24, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026
Discover a summer of art, creativity and outdoor adventure. Enjoy free creative activities designed…
Bleak Expectations By Mark Evans
- Aug 24, 2026 - Aug 29, 2026
Follow half-orphan Pip's extraordinary exploits with sisters Pippa and Poppy and best friend…
The Class Of 55 The History Of Rock N Roll
The Class of '55 – The History of Rock 'n' Roll comes to The Hawth, Crawley for one…
Whole Beast Feast
Join our Head Chef, Harry Cartwright, for an immersive woodland dining experience beside restaurant…
Ghost Walk Pevensey
- Aug 29, 2026 - Nov 14, 2026
A 90 minute Guided Ghost walk of Pevensey. Meet Castle Car Park for a guide walk hearing some of the…
Summer of Colour
- Chichester Cathedral
- Aug 24, 2026 - Sep 4, 2026
Discover a kaleidoscope of colour at Chichester Cathedral this summer. Inspired by the iconic John…
Nature on Tap
- Aug 29, 2026 - Sep 12, 2026
Join us for an unforgettable experience on the wild side of Lewes, where soaring peregrines, ancient…
Behind the Hives: Bee Tour & Talk
Step behind the scenes at Leonardslee and discover the fascinating world of honeybees. Hidden within…
Garden Tour & Cream Tea at West Dean Gardens
- West Dean Gardens
- Aug 25, 2026 - Oct 27, 2026
Enjoy an exclusive tour of the famous West Dean Gardens with two senior and knowledgeable members of…
Dragonfly Photography Walk
Join wildlife expert Paul Stevens on a 45 minute walk, off-piste, along the back of Wetland…
Lewes Ghost Walk
- Aug 28, 2026 - Nov 27, 2026
A 90 minute Guided Walk through Lewes introducing you to some of the darker stories from the Towns…
Sneak Peek Tours at Nymans
- Aug 24, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026
Take a behind the scenes look inside the house on a sneak peek tour. Tours last approximately 30…
Forest Bathing
- Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens
- Aug 29, 2026 - Dec 21, 2026
Emma Weaver is back for another soothing Forest Bathing session, taking you on a slow 5km walk in…
The Ultimate MOD Revue
We bring you a blistering, high-voltage, feel good show featuring the very best of singalong Mod…
Rye Jazz and Blues Festival
- Aug 28, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026
Four days. Seven headline concerts in a thousand-year-old church. Rye International Jazz & Blues…
440 Theatre Presents: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Fairies, lovers, and one very silly donkey — This is Shakespeare as you’ve never laughed at it…
Blunter Brothers
Dance the night away to the irresistible sounds of classic Funk, Motown and Soul. Formed in 1989…
Into The Wild
- Aug 24, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026
Food vendors, stall holders, wildcraft, sauna and children’s area.
South Stoke Series - Patrons Concert and Post Canape and Drinks Reception
Weber Clarinet Quintet in Bb Opus 34 Mozart Clarinet Quintet in A K581 Colin Lawson Clarinet Julia…
Elmer and Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee
- Aug 24, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026
Elmer and Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee. Celebrate and explore David McKee's…
9 to 5 - The Musical
- Connaught Theatre & Studio
- Aug 25, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026
Get ready to clock in for a night of laughter and iconic songs! Join us for the ultimate feel-good…
Pevensey Village and Churchyard History Walk
A Court, A Gaol, The Ancient High Steet, The Harbour and Port, C13th Church and Graveyard. Who froze…
Isthmian League: Crowborough Athletic vs South Park
Crowborough Athletic take on South Park in this South East Division fixture.
Isthmian League: Eastbourne Town vs Peacehaven & Telscombe
Eastbourne Town take on Peacehaven & Telscombe in this South East Division fixture.
Circus Skills Drop-In Workshop
- Aug 24, 2026 - Aug 27, 2026
Brush up your circus skills with instructors from Circus Allstars who'll give guidance and…
Children's Story Telling Workshop - Here Be Dragons
Hear the tale of the Dragon of the Knucker Hole in Sussex and his defeat and create the tale of the…
Creative Taster Sessions
- West Dean Gardens
- Aug 29, 2026 - Nov 7, 2026
Follow your curiosity and try something new. There are some things we always mean to try. Picking up…
Family Dragonfly Walk
Chasers, hawkers, emperors and demoiselles. What’s the difference and where are they? Join wildlife…
Garden Explorer Trail at West Dean Gardens - Summer Holiday Activities
- West Dean Gardens
- Aug 24, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026
Discover a summer of imagination adventure at West Dean Gardens with our family-friendly Garden…
Isthmian League: Hassocks FC vs Westfield
Hassocks FC take on Westfield in this Emirates FA Cup fixture.
Festival of History
- Arundel Castle
- Aug 29, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026
From the Stone Age to the 20th century, this three-day event on the lower lawns of Arundel Castle…
Run Love Festival
- Aug 29, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026
Run Love is a two day, one night running and wellness festival set in the Sussex countryside. Start…
Musical Theatre Workshops
Join Top Hat Stage & Screen School for this drop-in, musical theatre workshop. A chance to sing…
My Fair Lady
- Chichester Festival Theatre
- Aug 24, 2026 - Sep 5, 2026
Cockney Eliza Doolittle scrapes a living selling flowers on the streets of London. Her dream of…
Taylor Swift Tribute Night
Get ready for a sparkling evening packed with Taylor Swift’s biggest hits! Miss America, performed…
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
Take Time to Discover Midhurst: A Historic Gem in the Heart of Sussex
- 3 min read
In the heart of the South Downs National Park, Midhurst is one of Sussex’s most captivating…
Luxury holiday homes in Sussex
- 4 min read
Sometimes the greatest luxury is having the space to slow down. A private hot tub beneath star…
Discover Winnie‑the‑Pooh Inspired Spots Across Sussex
- 5 min read
Winnie-the-Pooh-inspired outings in Sussex In 2026, Winnie-the-Pooh, the warm-hearted and wise…
Explore Sussex Through Channel 5's Jewel of the South Coast
- 4 min read
Explore Sussex Through Channel 5's New Series A new five-part Channel 5 TV series, Sussex…
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…
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