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 the Perfect Chichester Evening: Light Show and Dinner at The Ivy
Win tickets to the breathtaking Light Experience by Luxmuralis at the iconic…
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.
The Paint Club: Elephant
We are back, this time painting an elephant.
Academic Life Drawing
- Sep 23, 2026 - Dec 2, 2026
Life Drawing at Paddock Art Studios Lewes. Come and learn how to "See like the Masters…
NNAS Bronze Award Navigation Course
- Sep 26, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
We would love you to join us for a fun and instructive two-day map-reading adventure in the stunning…
Anastasia the musical
- Sep 20, 2026 - Sep 25, 2026
The University of Chichester Conservatoire proudly presents Anastasia: The Musical in Concert, the…
Goodwood Revival
The world's most spectacular historic motor racing event, Goodwood Revival, presented by Dunlop…
The Telescopes + Lazarus Lake
In 2024 The Telescopes released three acclaimed albums followed by a 3 month tour of the UK and…
Luther UK - A Tribute To Luther Vandross
The ultimate celebration of a true Motown icon.
The Ultimate 80's Daytime Clubbing
Get ready to dance the day away and relive the iconic 80s at Tropicana Nights! Whether youre a child…
Mtm Freshers'showcase
Join our Level 5 and Level 6 MTM students as they kick off the year with a Freshers Showcase…
Heritage Makes at Standen
Heritage crafts and core making skills with Sussex Contemporary exhibitors; including demonstrations…
Sneak Peek Tours at Nymans
- Sep 20, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026
Take a behind the scenes look inside the house on a sneak peek tour. Tours last approximately 30…
Simon Brodkin: Unleashed
Acclaimed comedian and professional hoaxer He’s the comedian who showered FIFA president Sepp…
Theologist - Oli Riordan
Eastbourne's longest running alternative comedy night returns this autumn with a stunning line…
Poetry Day: September
Join us for a day-long poetry workshop that takes you out onto the downland landscape surrounding…
Pride and Prejudice* (*Sort Of)
- Sep 22, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026
It’s the 1800s. It’s party time. Let the ruthless matchmaking begin. Direct from its triumph in the…
Oasis
Oasis tribute show with Fakermaker.
Kid Kapichi (semi-acoustic)
All ages matinee show. Presented by The Piper. This is an all ages event.
Skelton Workshops
- Sep 20, 2026 - Nov 14, 2026
A range of five-week courses, two- and three-day courses and short taster courses in stone sculpture…
British Sign Language Tour of Battle Abbey
On 14th October 1066, Duke William's Norman army met King Harold's Saxon army in a battle…
Spire Visits
- Chichester Cathedral
- Sep 20, 2026 - Nov 28, 2026
Ascend through nearly 950 years of history, guided by knowledgeable volunteers, to Chichester…
Funny Girls! Shoreham
FUNNY GIRLS COMEDY NIGHTS - Join us upstairs at The Crown & Anchor in Shoreham for a fantastic…
Isthmian League: Eastbourne Town vs Faversham Town
Eastbourne Town take on Faversham Town in this South East Division fixture.
Incredible Insects Learning Session 8-11 yrs
Perfect for home learners, this complete day of discovery at WWT Arundel is available again this…
Rogate Pumpkin Patch Ticket Release
- Sep 20, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026
The Rogate Pumpkin Patch is now in its 12th year. We'll close with our much-loved Pumpkin SMASH!…
Open Weekend Marc Fish
Discover the work of world renowned Artist Marc Fish, founder of the award-winning robinson house…
Autumn Plant Fair
The ever-popular Specialist Autumn Plant Fair returns to Borde Hill on Sunday 20th September from…
Knepp Rewilded Walled Garden Tour
- Sep 20, 2026 - Oct 8, 2026
A tour of the Rewilded Walled Garden with one of our specialist guides introduces you to the ethos…
The Paint Club: Sailing Into Sunset
Join us for this month's painting event as we paint a boat sailing into the sunset.
Graham Parker
Regarded as one of the UK's most distinguished and original songwriters Graham Parker is perhaps…
Artwave Festival
The 33rd Artwave Festival returns with 176 free-to-visit exhibitions and open studios across Lewes…
Backstage Tours
- Chichester Festival Theatre
- Sep 20, 2026 - Oct 17, 2026
Our 75-minute guided tour is a brilliant way to explore how theatre is made! Discover our backstage…
Alcohol Ink Tile Workshop
Join us for a mindful, reflective session exploring alcohol ink painting on ceramic tile. Well focus…
Let There Be Love
- Sep 23, 2026 - Oct 14, 2026
The Royal Hippodromes much loved Summer Season makes its welcome return this year with a celebration…
Junior & Youth Cycle Club
- Sep 25, 2026 - Oct 2, 2026
Local cycling group for young people, held on Fridays at Eastbourne Sports Park.
Meadow Landscape Painting Workshop
Join Jo Starkey for a fun and inspiring day creating a beautiful meadow landscape! Spend a creative…
Cellar Tour
- Sep 26, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026
Cellar tour. NB:This is a WAS operated tour organised by FOAM box office to help raise funds for…
Vasilis Xenopoulos - International Sax Star!
A towering force on the contemporary UK scene, Berklee honours graduate Vasilis Xenopoulos is a…
The Uncommon Eye: Bob Geldof
This series explores a new way of thinking about how and where we live. Curated by designer Sue…
Walter Sickert: Working Notes
- Sep 20, 2026 - Oct 11, 2026
Discover a fresh perspective on Walter Sickert, one of the most provocative figures in early…
Fleetwood Mac Tribute
Fleetwood Mac tribute show with Fleetwood Shack.
Isthmian League: Littlehampton Town vs Cobham
Littlehampton Town take on Cobham in this South Central Division fixture.
WOWWW: Retreat Afternoon
The first part of WOWWW is a retreat-style afternoon, designed to help you reconnect with yourself…
Artwave Festival
The 33rd Artwave Festival returns with 176 free-to-visit exhibitions and open studios across Lewes…
Botanical Painting
Join award-winning botanical artist Nessie Ramm in this one-day botanical painting workshop at the…
Nature Connect
Learn simple ways to connect, relax and engage in the natural world. Weather you are a parent…
Benoit Viellefon Hot Club
Benoit Viellefon will perform with his Hot Club a program comprising of classics from the swing era…
Heavy Horses - Wildflower Meaow Harrowing
Come and watch the heavy horses working in the meadow. The grass is cut in August and the hay…
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
Step into the 1066 Battle of Hastings
- 4 min read
On the 14 th of October 1066, the most famous battle in English history took place. Now, every…
Best Vineyard Harvest Experiences in Sussex: Grape Picking, Wine Tastings and Harvest Festivals
- 3 min read
Harvest season is one of the best times to visit a vineyard in Sussex, with late Summer sunshine and…
See Sussex Differently: Active Adventures around Newhaven
- 10 min read
How to spend an active break in Newhaven If you're looking for an active break in Sussex with…
Explore historical Sussex for free: Heritage Open Days 2026
- 3 min read
Every September, Heritage Open Days unlock the doors to some of England’s most fascinating…
Bonfire Night in Sussex: A Proud Tradition of Fire, History and Community
- 4 min read
Each autumn, Sussex bursts into life with the glow of bonfires, the rhythm of marching bands and the…
Tide Mills, Newhaven: discover the history of Sussex's lost village
- 4 min read
Tide Mills, Newhaven: discover the history of Sussex's lost village Just outside Newhaven, on…
Three Newhaven heritage walks that uncover the stories behind the harbour town
- 9 min read
Newhaven is a town that rewards a closer look. Its working harbour, railway, ferry terminal and…
Best Saunas in Sussex: Coastal, Outdoor & Wild Sauna Experiences
- 13 min read
Looking for a sauna in Sussex? From wood-fired beach saunas overlooking the English Channel to…
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…
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