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 3 of the Channel 5 series, Sussex: Jewel of the South Coast
The White Hart Inn
The White Hart Hotel is a charming 16th century coaching inn located on Lewes High Street. Following an extensive refurbishment in 2024, Heartwood…
Fly Sussex Paragliding
- Tollgate
Take to the skies and learn to Paraglide on the beautiful South Downs. Solo and tandem flying experiences available. Suitable for complete beginners…
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.
Adults Silent Disco at Leonardslee
Open-air Silent Disco on Leonardslee House Lawn for an adults-only summer evening beneath the stars…
Henners Summer Party
Join us at the vineyard for a full day of sunshine, sparkling wine and good vibes. Grab a bite from…
Nature on Tap
- Aug 15, 2026 - Sep 12, 2026
Join us for an unforgettable experience on the wild side of Lewes, where soaring peregrines, ancient…
A Foreigner's Journey
Well known all over the World, Foreigner and Journey are giants of the genre best known as Adult…
Bead & Reed Dragonfly Drop-in Family Craft
Pop into the Outlook In building to make a dashing dragonfly! Zsofi from Nature Makers will guide…
Let's Make Gospel Music - Singing Workshop
'Let’s Make Gospel Music', is back, an uplifting hour of songs, singing, connection and…
Heritage Makes at Standen
- Aug 19, 2026 - Sep 23, 2026
Heritage crafts and core making skills with Sussex Contemporary exhibitors; including demonstrations…
Sunday Jazz
Ease into Sunday with an afternoon curated by the wonderful Saltdean Jazz Band. Expect an eclectic…
Evening Jazz with Big House
Join us for an evening of fun with live jazz in The Old Workshop with snacks, wine & soft drinks…
Trenchmore's Big Asado Weekend
- Aug 15, 2026 - Aug 16, 2026
Join Chef Diego and Viki from Palmito at Trenchmore Farm for a weekend of locally grown food cooked…
Simon Brodkin: Unleashed
Acclaimed comedian and professional hoaxer He’s the comedian who showered FIFA president Sepp…
Knepp Rewilded Walled Garden Tour
- Aug 13, 2026 - Oct 8, 2026
A tour of the Rewilded Walled Garden with one of our specialist guides introduces you to the ethos…
Family Summer Holiday Activities
- Aug 13, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026
Discover a summer of art, creativity and outdoor adventure. Enjoy free creative activities designed…
Newhaven Fort
- Aug 13, 2026 - Nov 1, 2026
Visitors are welcomed back to Newhaven Fort this February half term, as the historic site reopens…
Summer Sunday Music at Standen
- Aug 16, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026
Join us on Sunday afternoons for live music on the house terrace. Bring picnic rugs and chairs and…
Great British Summer
- Aug 13, 2026 - Sep 6, 2026
Celebrate a classic Great British Summer, inspired by timeless holiday traditions and a fun day out…
Nile Rodgers & Chic
Disco pioneer with Chic and songwriter/producer behind pop hits that span decades, from Sister…
Model Boats on the Lake
- Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens
- Aug 15, 2026 - Aug 16, 2026
See the Schooner Radio Control Group in action on the Lakes at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, and…
Gospel Singing Taster with Joanne Miller
The East Grinstead Jazz Festival kicks off with our popular Gospel Singing taster workshop. Prepare…
Mudlarks & Crafts!
Mud, glorious mud – that's what a lot of our wading birds think! But what is in it that attracts…
Becky Hill
Becky Hill brings her euphoric catalogue of hits to Canterbury on Saturday 8th August, headlining a…
Janaina Tschäpe
- Hastings Contemporary
- Aug 13, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026
Janaina Tschäpe brings the swell of the English Channel and the immensity of the world's…
Curious About Chichester
- Aug 13, 2026 - Oct 24, 2026
Unlock Chichester's Hidden Stories: Quirky Walks & Treasure Hunts Await! Ditch the ordinary…
Circus Day at Newhaven Fort
Crazee Hazee will be teaching visitors circus skills throughout the day, you can master the art of…
We Are Family Sussex
We Are Family Festival Sussex comes to Borde Hill on Sunday 16 August, bringing a full day of live…
Grim Glory: Lee Miller's Britain at War
- Farleys House & Gallery
- Aug 13, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026
A major exhibition from the Lee Miller Archives will be on display for the second half of the 2026…
Isthmian League: Crowborough Athletic vs Steyning Town Community
Crowborough Athletic take on Steyning Town Community in this South East Division fixture.
East Grinstead Jazz Festival presents Gospel Rising!
A welcome return to Joanne Miller and Gospel Rising as part of the East Grinstead Jazz Festival…
McFly
With seven UK number-one singles, five top-ten albums, six sell-out tours and ten million records…
Summer of Play
- Aug 13, 2026 - Sep 6, 2026
A summer of play at Standen with circus school activities. Roll up, roll up! Summer of Play arrives…
Nature Connect
- Aug 15, 2026 - Sep 20, 2026
Learn simple ways to connect, relax and engage in the natural world. Weather you are a parent…
Garden Explorer Trail at West Dean Gardens - Summer Holiday Activities
- West Dean Gardens
- Aug 13, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026
Discover a summer of imagination adventure at West Dean Gardens with our family-friendly Garden…
Backstage Tours
- Chichester Festival Theatre
- Aug 13, 2026 - Oct 17, 2026
Our 75-minute guided tour is a brilliant way to explore how theatre is made! Discover our backstage…
Leonardslee Comedy Club
- Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens
- Aug 14, 2026 - Nov 12, 2027
Join us at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens for top-quality stand-up from Epic Comedy, enjoyed in a…
Summer Programme
- Aug 13, 2026 - Nov 1, 2026
Our Summer Programme unfolds through earthworks, sculpture, tapestry, ceramics and large-scale…
Borde Hill Summer Series
- Aug 13, 2026 - Aug 15, 2026
Introducing a brand-new festival weekend set in the stunning grounds of Borde Hill, Haywards Heath…
Isthmian League: Hastings United vs AFC Croydon Athletic
Hastings United take on AFC Croydon Athletic in this South East Division fixture.
George Michael Tribute
George Michael tribute with Andrew Browning.
SCRATCHY (ROLL DEEP) - Culture Reloaded
Scratchy from the infamous Roll Deep crew is coming to the Sunshine Coast this summer! Grime icon…
The Lost Cadres + Blush
THE LOST CADRE The Lost Cadres are a psychedelic garagerock band based in Sussex, drawing on a rich…
Decorative Paint Techniques
Join Jonathon Marc Mendes, renowned artist, furniture designer and educator, for a masterclass that…
Willow Fairy & Dragon Trail
- Aug 13, 2026 - Sep 6, 2026
This summer, High Beeches Garden welcomes the return of the magical Willow Fairy and Dragon Trail…
A Foreigner's Journey
Well known all over the World, Foreigner and Journey are giants of the genre best known as Adult…
Curious About Hastings
- Aug 13, 2026 - Oct 24, 2026
James Brown vs Prince
Performer Buzz D'Angelo is the winner of Seven National Tribute Music Awards – come and funk the…
Dream House Tours at Nymans
- Aug 13, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026
Join a tour around the outside of the house at Nymans, looking at the building and seeing how it…
Creative Taster Sessions
- West Dean Gardens
- Aug 15, 2026 - Nov 7, 2026
Follow your curiosity and try something new. There are some things we always mean to try. Picking up…
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
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…
Find your 'Wild' in Sussex
- 4 min read
Sussex is a place where nature still feels wonderfully alive. Rewilded estates echo with birdsong…
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