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!
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!
Seen it on TV?
Find the locations and people featured in Episode 2 of the Channel 5 series, Sussex: Jewel of the South Coast
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.
Moore / Freud
- Hastings Contemporary
- Aug 3, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026
Moore / Freud will be the first exhibition to explore the distinctive ways in which Henry Moore and…
Après Beach | Alex Etchart
- Aug 3, 2026 - Sep 19, 2026
Après Beach is Greyskull's summer programme of free outdoor live music, taking place every…
Summer of Play
- Aug 3, 2026 - Sep 6, 2026
A summer of play at Standen with circus school activities. Roll up, roll up! Summer of Play arrives…
Barry 'the Fish' Melton
On his farewell UK tour one of the stalwarts of Country Joe & The Fish breezes into Chichester…
Candle Making Workshops
Join local chandler Ursula, founder of Wax and Willow, for an immersive candle-making experience in…
Simply Us + Them, recreating the sound of Pink Floyd
Making their 4th appearance on the Ropetackle stage in as many years, we welcome back Simply Us +…
Chichester Family Art Trail
- Aug 3, 2026 - Sep 1, 2026
Discover Chichester's vibrant arts and cultural scene with this free Family Art Trail, designed…
Brewery Tours
- Aug 8, 2026 - Jan 23, 2027
Curious to know what goes on at Firebird, and what it takes to bring our beers to life? Join us for…
Summer Art Club: Pattern and Print Landscape
Inspired by Paul Nash, experiment with abstract pattern and mark-making techniques to design…
Modern Calligraphy Workshops
Join us for a relaxing morning where you will be taken through a 2-hour dip pen session by Helen…
Night-Time Safari – Magnificent Moths and Brilliant Bats
- Aug 8, 2026 - Aug 22, 2026
Experience the reserve 'after dark' and search for some of our nocturnal creatures with our…
Unfaithfull - The Marianne Story
Explore the dark side of fame in this cabaret show with music and songs by the great Marianne…
Phil Hartnoll (Orbital)
One half of the mighty **Orbital**, true rave royalty, **Phil Hartnoll**, arrives to South London…
Quantum Theatre presents The Tale of Peter Rabbit
Join Peter and his naughty cousin Benjamin at Hinton Ampner on their hair-raising adventures in…
Summer Sunday Music at Standen
- Aug 9, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026
Join us on Sunday afternoons for live music on the house terrace. Bring picnic rugs and chairs and…
Enchanted Garden Jewellery Workshop
Join Laura Danby, who in collaboration with Andersen Press has designed a beautiful Elmer jewellery…
Shoreham Record Fair
Something new is coming to Shoreham Record Fair... For the first time ever, we'll be running a…
Phil Hartnoll, Gina Larner
Two worlds collide in a unique night built for pure energy and unforgettable music. From the pulsing…
Free Summer Family Fun
Free Family Activities every Wednesday in August Every Wednesday | 5, 12, 19 & 26 August Make…
Isthmian League: Lewes vs Enfield Town
Lewes take on Enfield Town in this Premier Division fixture.
Pink Tribute
Pink tribute with Pink-ish.
Guerilla Girls
- Aug 3, 2026 - Sep 6, 2026
The graphic art interventions of anonymous feminist collective, Guerrilla Girls, has challenged…
Newhaven Fort
- Aug 3, 2026 - Nov 1, 2026
Visitors are welcomed back to Newhaven Fort this February half term, as the historic site reopens…
The Jive Aces
Having become the first ever band to reach the semi finals of *Britain's Got Talent* in 2012…
Sam Braysher Quartet Featuring Annie Majin
Sam Braysher, whose warm tone and inquisitive approach to harmony is attracting growing attention on…
Let There Be Love
- Aug 5, 2026 - Oct 14, 2026
The Royal Hippodromes much loved Summer Season makes its welcome return this year with a celebration…
Feast in the Vines with Roebuck Estates
Back for another year, Roebuck's much-loved Feast in the Vines returns to their Petworth…
Symphoria Experience
Symphoria Experience brings the Journey of Dance- Live Orchestral House Classics- DJ Led- Vocals…
Summer Programme
- Aug 3, 2026 - Nov 1, 2026
Our Summer Programme unfolds through earthworks, sculpture, tapestry, ceramics and large-scale…
Operation Mincemeat
- Aug 4, 2026 - Aug 8, 2026
Operation Mincemeat is the 2024 Olivier Award-winning Best New Musical. It’s London’s biggest hit…
Little Pickles Market Baby and Children's Nearly New Sale
Come and join us at our nearly-new baby and children's sale where you can find 1000s of great…
Yarnbombers for St Michael's Hospice Seaside Trail
- Aug 3, 2026 - Sep 5, 2026
A vibrant, seaside-themed trail of 18 intricate yarnbombing installations is set to launch across…
Designing a Wilder Garden Workshop
Led by Knepp’s senior gardening team this in-depth workshop shows you how to design wildness into…
Our Amazing Animal World
Get ready for a very special summer holiday experience. Our Amazing Animal World are back for one…
Elmer and Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee
- Aug 3, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026
Elmer and Friends: The Colourful World of David McKee. Celebrate and explore David McKee's…
Grim Glory: Lee Miller's Britain at War
- Farleys House & Gallery
- Aug 3, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026
A major exhibition from the Lee Miller Archives will be on display for the second half of the 2026…
Somerley Fields PYO Sunflowers
- Aug 7, 2026 - Aug 9, 2026
Somerley Fields bursts into colour this summer with its much-loved Pick Your Own Sunflower…
Proms in the Park
Following the success of our proms held in August 2025, we are pleased to announce that the Proms at…
The Loxwood Joust: Promises A Magical Escape This Summer
- Aug 8, 2026 - Aug 16, 2026
Venture into the Kingdom of Loxwood next summer for the spectacle of the season: The Loxwood Joust…
Make your own Tactile Animal
How do you think David McKee's animal characters would feel? Rough or smooth, soft or hairy?…
Pondemonium Silent Disco
- Arundel Wetland Centre
- Aug 4, 2026 - Aug 5, 2026
Immerse yourself in the magic of the music through headphones and celebrate the grace and power of…
Heritage Makes at Standen
- Aug 5, 2026 - Sep 23, 2026
Heritage crafts and core making skills with Sussex Contemporary exhibitors; including demonstrations…
Samaki
Kino welcomes the return of Hastings saxophonist Chris Whites afrobeat project Samaki. With a…
The Pickwick Papers
A farce for all the family! Join the lovable Mr. Pickwick and his eccentric band of companions as…
Garden Explorer Trail at West Dean Gardens - Summer Holiday Activities
- West Dean Gardens
- Aug 3, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026
Discover a summer of imagination adventure at West Dean Gardens with our family-friendly Garden…
Summer of Colour
- Chichester Cathedral
- Aug 3, 2026 - Sep 4, 2026
Discover a kaleidoscope of colour at Chichester Cathedral this summer. Inspired by the iconic John…
Backstage Tours
- Chichester Festival Theatre
- Aug 3, 2026 - Oct 17, 2026
Our 75-minute guided tour is a brilliant way to explore how theatre is made! Discover our backstage…
Rogate Pumpkin Patch Ticket Release
- Aug 3, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026
The Rogate Pumpkin Patch is now in its 12th year. We'll close with our much-loved Pumpkin SMASH!…
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.
Explore a royal coastline in Sussex
Discover the iconic Seven Sisters and the King Charles III England Coast Path in Sussex
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
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…
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…
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