indoor places to visit east sussex

THE 10 BEST Indoor Things to Do in East Sussex on a Rainy Day

Best activities for a rainy day in east sussex.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Royal Pavilion

2. The Lanes

3. Old Town Hastings

4. Hastings Fishermen's Museum

5. St. Mary's Parish Church

6. The Observatory Science Centre

7. SEA LIFE Brighton

8. Bateman's

9. Glyndebourne

10. Shipwreck Museum

11. American Express Community Stadium

12. Rye Waterworks MIcropub

13. Royal Hippodrome Theatre

14. Smugglers Adventure

15. Newhaven Fort

16. The True CRIME Museum

17. Kemptown

18. Bexhill Museum

19. Bizarre But True!

20. Brighton and Hove Museum

21. Nigel Greaves Gallery

22. Brighton Dome

23. Old Police Cells Museum

24. Rye Heritage Centre

25. De La Warr Pavilion

26. Devonshire Park Theatre

27. Booth Museum of Natural History

28. Ypres Tower Museum, Rye Castle

29. Monk's House - National Trust

30. The Source Park

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Rainy Day Activities

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Discover hundreds of places to go and things to do indoors across South East England.

Don't let the wet weather spoil your day out, staycation or holiday, find a rainy day activity near you on our interactive map or try our Places to Visit section for more ideas on a particular county, city or town.

Indoor Attractions

Whether you're looking for things to do on a rainy day for adults or kids, find a wide selection of museums , craft centres and galleries to visit, or why not indulge in a brewery tour  or discover one of the fine  shopping centres that grace the South East.

There are numerous options for things to do indoors including a visit to one of the many  theatres , cinemas or bowling alleys across the destination, providing fun for the whole family.

Delve into the South East's history and heritage with a visit to the likes of  Windsor Castle in Windsor, or  Leeds Castle  in Maidstone. You'll find many more great  historic houses , castles  and churches and cathedrals to explore across the South on those not so good weather days.  The Queen’s House is a beautiful 17th-century royal villa was designed by Inigo Jones and is Britain’s first classical building. Marvel at the House’s pioneering architecture, including the iconic Tulip Stairs, and discover its internationally renowned art collection.  The Queen’s House is free to visit except for Special Exhibitions and guided tours.

Top 15 things to do on a rainy day

• Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium , Hampshire   Amazing family fun at this interactive, hands on science and technology centre.
• Beaulieu, Home of the National Motor Museum , Hampshire Home of the iconic world famous National Motor Museum and World of Top Gear
• Old Royal Naval College , Greenwich VisitEngland's Large Visitor Attraction of the Year, right in the heart of the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Hampshire Cultural Trust , throughout Hampshire Twenty-three museums, arts centres, and galleries offering informative days out, workshops and events.   
• Salisbury Catherdral , Sailsbury, Wiltshire A place of worship, welcome and hospitality for over 800 years
• Bodleian Libraries , Oxford, Oxfordshire Exhibitions and tours of this culturally significant building.
• Dinosaur Isle , Sandown, Isle of Wight Step back in time to when these tremendous beats ruled the earth.
• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard , Portsmouth, Hampshire The great value all explorer ticket gives 12-months of access to all 12 attractions. 
• Odds Farm Park , Wycombe, Buckinghamshire  Along side the outdoor farm there is a massive adventure play area including the slides, tunnels, swinging ropes and more.  
• The Powell-Cotton Museum, Nr Margate, Kent Bursting with natural history displays and fascinating exhibits from Aficia and Asia.
• Basingstoke Leisure Park , Basingstoke, Hampshire Home to Milestones Museum, Basingstoke Aquadrome, the Odeon cinema, Planet Ice, Hollywood Bowl Basingstoke and iFly.
• McArthurGlen Ashford Designer Outlet Shopping , Ashford, Kent Discover over 100 of your favourite brands all with up to 60% off the RRP, along with 13 eateries and a children's playground
• Dover Castle , Dover, Kent Discover 2000 years of history including the secret underground tunnels, Operation Dynamo and the Great Tower.
• Bombay Sapphire Distillery , Winchester, Hampshire Explore the distillery and understand the care, skill and artistry behind every drop of Bombay Sapphire
• Ascot Racecourse, Ascot, Berkshire For a truely memorable day out, home to Royal Ascot, firework nights, themed and family race days.

Indoor things to do near me

Whether you live nearby or are travelling to the South East for a day trip or longer holiday, find places to go when it's raining near you below. Use the 'map view' function to narrow your search to a particular area or try our  Places to Visit  section for more ideas on a particular county, city or town.

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Number of results: 144

, currently showing 1 to 20.

Margate Museum

Margate Museum is opened by a group of volunteers called the Friends of Margate Museum who work with Thanet District Council to open Margate Museum on a regular basis.

Ramsgate Maritime Museum

Dickens House Museum

Historic House / Palace

The museum is housed in the cottage that was Charles Dickens’ inspiration for the home of Betsey Trotwood in David Copperfield.

Jane Austen’s House

Jane Austen’s House in Chawton, Hampshire is the picturesque country cottage where Jane Austen lived. It is the most treasured Austen site in the world. It was here that Jane’s genius flourished and where she wrote, revised and had published all her…

Pavilion Theatre

Part of Worthing Theatres, the Pavilion Theatre is situated on the promenade at the entrance to Worthing’s pier and hosts a variety of theatre, dance, music and comedy as well as events including craft fairs, children’s workshops and corporate events

Mayflower Theatre

The largest Theatre in the south, The Mayflower offers spectacular touring musicals - many direct from the West End - plus opera, ballet and comedy.

GLOBALLS - Cocktail Bar

Live Music Venue

Brighton Marina Village, BRIGHTON

An intimate cocktail bar just a stone's throw from the incredible UV mini golf and games experience, GLOBALLS, The Great GLOBALLS cocktail bar offers a luxurious treat. Already a firm favourite with Brightonians, this recently opened hidden gem…

Hastings Castle & 1066 Story

Castle / Fort

Fragmentary remains of Norman Castle built on West Hill after William the Conqueror's victory at the Battle of Hastings. 1066 Story interpretation centre in siege tent.

Royal Armouries - Fort Nelson

Historic Site

Fort Nelson is a superbly restored Victorian fort overlooking Portsmouth Harbour. It is home to the Royal Armouries national artillery collection with over 350 historic guns on display.

Pinot and Picasso Brighton

Craft Centre

Get arty while you party at this Paint & Sip studio located in Brighton’s North Laines, right in the heart of the city. Creativity flows like a fine wine, and we encourage you to join us solo, together or meet someone new to sip, dip, splash, slosh…

Devonshire Park Theatre

The Devonshire Park Theatre is a Grade II listed building designed by Henry Currey, built in 1884 and further improved by celebrated Theatre Architect Frank Matcham in 1903. The theatre has a seating capacity of 936.

The Surrey Explorer

Road Cycling

All inclusive guided bike tours of the Surrey Hills, only 35 minutes by train from central London. Bikes, helmets and tour guide are provided. You can see so much more by bike: hidden villages and woodlands; points of interest; incredible views; and…

Gilbert White's House & Gardens

Historic house and garden, home of Gilbert White, author of 'The Natural History of Selborne'. Exhibition on Frank Oates, explorer and Capt Lawrence Oates of Antarctic fame.

Theatre Royal Winchester

Beautiful and intimate Edwardian-style Theatre venue

Royal Observatory Greenwich

Stand astride two hemispheres on the Prime Meridian Line and enjoy spectacular views over London at the Royal Observatory Greenwich.

Cranleigh Arts

Event Venue

Located in the beautiful village of Cranleigh, in the heart of the Surrey Hills, Cranleigh Arts is a community hub providing year round entertainment for the local community and visitors alike

Hastings Contemporary

Nestling between the fishing beach and Hastings Old Town, Hastings Contemporary is sensitively designed to complement the surrounding coastal environment.

Golf Course

Globalls has it’s very own 12-hole indoor golf course, this is a unique games experience. Based on an aquatic, carnival or tropicana theme you can play amongst life size neon sculptures and wall art.

Salisbury Cathedral

Cathedral / Minister

Discover a medieval masterpiece and living church nestled in the heart of a traditional but original city. Salisbury Cathedral is home to one of only four surviving original 1215 Magna Carta and offers exclusive tours of its iconic spire.

Venue Provider

The brand-new place to experience live performance, library and community services, art, classes and talks, all together, under one roof in the heart of Winchester.

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THE 10 BEST Indoor Things to Do in East Sussex on a Rainy Day

Best activities for a rainy day in east sussex.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

61. Fishing Museum

62. Berwick Church

63. Little Jasmine Therapies and Spa

64. Battle Brewery

65. Coral, Brighton & Hove Greyhound Stadium

66. White Rock Theatre

67. Eastbourne Lifeboat Museum

68. Labyrinth Art Gallery Brighton

69. Charleston

70. SOAR TOUR

71. Rye Art Gallery

72. The Beachy Head Story

73. Bewilder Box Escape Room Brighton

74. Rampion Visitor Centre

75. Grange Museum & Art Gallery

76. Snoopers Paradise

77. Eastbourne Tourist Information Centre

78. Lewes Flea Market

79. Museum of Penny Slot Machines

80. Devonshire Park Centre

81. Beach Box Sauna Spa

82. Body Base

83. Duke of York's Picturehouse

84. St Anthony of Padua

85. Stables Theatre

86. Brighton Flea Market

87. Long Man Brewery

88. Rendezvous Casino

89. Grosvenor Casinos Pier Nine Brighton

90. Be At One Brighton

What travellers are saying

Open 10.00am to 5.30pm, 361 days of the year

Come rain or shine, knockhatch adventure park is, the perfect place to visit in sussex for a family day out.

Knockhatch Adventure Park offers loads of exciting activities for visitors of all ages. Adventure seekers can delve into exhilarating experiences such as Sherlock Holmes, the Wave Runner and the huge Lost World Playbarn slides. The Jungle Splash is a huge wet play area with water arches, gushers, fountains and a massive waterfall. Animal enthusiasts can enjoy petting and feeding a wide range of friendly farm animals including llamas, emus and goats.

The daily Owl Displays will enthral your family as they swoop over your heads and land on their keeper’s gloves. The park also boasts an impressive selection of outdoor attractions, including the Dragon Castle, giant jumping pillows, and rowing boats on the lake. If it rains our four indoor play areas, Lost World Playbarn, Cannon Arena, Froggies Soft Play and Tommy Tractor Playbarn will keep the kids entertained and dry.

For those seeking a more educational experience, the Jungle Kingdom will introduce you to coatis, prairie dogs, ring tailed lemurs, meerkats, mongoose, tortoises, kookaburras and macaws. With its huge selection of animals, attractions, playgrounds and rides, Knockhatch Adventure Park guarantees an unforgettable day of fun and exploration!

We are adding new attractions all the time, so if you haven’t visited us in a while, you are bound to find a new addition to the attractions and experiences available. Come and visit us to explore the best family day out in the South East and create lifelong memories. The fun goes on and on and on and on and on at Knockhatch Adventure Park!

We visited here using our Tesco club card points to pay for the majority of our tickets. 4 of us, 2 adults, a 7 year old and a 4 year old. Today was hands down the best family day out we have ever had. What an incredible place to visit. First welcomed by attentive staff showing us where to queue (we got here 15 mins before opening) welcomed in nicely and quickly set on our way. The petting farm was just too cute, really friendly goats, emus, bunny’s, loads more and the wallaby walk through. 50p for a pot of animal food and we got to hand feed majority of these animals. The play areas were incredible, well suited to both my children (bring socks for the Dino play area if you have little ones that may need encouragement for the big slide) The outside play areas were fantastic and the majority of activities were included in the price, including row boats around the lake! Great fun. The owl show was spectacular, really informative and awe inspiring. The animals enclosure were great, really spacious, clean and the animals seemed very happy and well cared for. All in all, it was a fantastic day, would’ve happily payed the full entrance price without clubcard helping and Will Definately be returning on our next holiday to seaford! Personally feel this trumps it’s local competitors in terms of value for money, space and fun! Fun for all the ages (not sure who had more fun, me or the kids 😂)

Lovely day with the daughter and grandchildren. Plenty to do and see. Children loved it. Good day.

The best adventure park! Fantastic new water splash area and climbing castle. Never feels too busy. My 12 year old and 10 year old just loved their day!

The kids absolutely love going to Knockhatch. There is always so much to do and see. Constant improvements and new attractions are always being added. Great for summer days with the water splash areas, as well as indoors on rainy days.

It's one of the few places where there's something new every time. The money made appears to be put back in to the park and that's a great ethos! We hope to be supporting Knockhatch for years to come!

We visited Knockhatch to do the Meet the Meerkats Experience. The experience was very enjoyable. Mark, the keeper, was informative and told us about the meerkats and the other animals in that part of the park. We got to feed the meerkats, have them climb over us and watch them play. There were only 4 people doing the experience, which meant that we had at least one meerkat near/on during most of the time. At the end we were also given a certificate!

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Super Cool East Sussex: 20 Things to do on a Weekend Break

Posted on 15th Aug 2023. In England , Sussex , The Roundup , Uncategorised

East Sussex is a county big on activities and attractions; so you’re not going to be short of things to do when you head here for a weekend break.

If you’re a lover of the great outdoors, East Sussex has you covered. This impeccable region has miles of coastline, along with an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – The High Weald – that runs into Kent next door and the white cliffs of the South Downs.  R olling green downs, weald-lands, chalky hills and dramatic coastline mean you can hike, swim, cycle, run, or simply meander across its beautiful painting-like landscape to your heart’s content. 

If you’re a sucker for history, hold on to your armour. This is 1066 country, with towns blitzed by Norman invasions and castles wrecked by bloody conflicts. Juicy stuff that’ll keep your heart thumping as you regale the stories and legends. Then there are the energetic seaside resorts, including trendy Brighton, promising 24/7 glitz and glam, as well as more sedate musts like Eastbourne, where families have been kept smiling for generations.

In short, you won’t fall short of things to do in East Sussex. But you may have trouble fitting it all in. 

Disclosure: All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Things to do in East Sussex

1. Explore Brighton’s Wonders

Brighton is known for its pebble beach, but it’s also one of the most lively seafront destinations in the whole of the UK with so many wonders to explore on a weekend visit.

Stroll along its four-mile promenade and hidden arches and you’ll find beachfront bars, restaurants serving everything from ice cream to high-end seafood, galleries in the Artists’ Quarter and rides and arcades to keep the whole family entertained.

Don’t forget to snap the haunting remains of Brighton’s West Pier, which famously burnt down in 2003 and is now an iconic landmark of the city.

If it’s your first visit to Brighton and you want to see the top sights at your own pace, without being tied to an in-person group tour and schedule, then we recommend this self-guided Brighton Walking Tour by Around – the audio tour specialist.

The 2-hour tour takes you to 13 of Brighton’s most interesting iconic spots, including hidden gems only locals know about. Your audio guides are Lauren and John who live in Brighton, so you can be certain you’re getting the city from a resident’s POV.

Simply buy your tour pass (you can unlock a tour for 24hrs or up to 14 days), download to your mobile and off you go. Flexible, budget-friendly (this tour costs just £8.99 for 24hrs) – what’s not to love!

You might also like: Top 10 Weekend Beach Breaks in the UK

2. Sauna by the sea with Beach Box Spa  

If a wood-fired sauna on the beach sounds like your idea of heaven, book a session at Beach Box Spa. Located on Brighton Beach, this year-round ‘beach spa’ claims to be the sauna-bathing experience you didn’t know you needed – and it’s easy to see why.

With incredible sea views from each of the three saunas and direct beach access, it’s the perfect place to take a sea dip then warm up again, even if you visit in winter.

There is also an ice bath (extra charge), plunge pool, fresh water showers and changing rooms on site.

Guests can upgrade their experience with handmade, natural in-sauna body treatments. Check out their new spa menu to see what’s on offer. Private parties can add their very own Sauna Master (an expert trained in steam wafting and leaf whisking), should they wish.

Beach Box Sauna is open from 8.45am to 8.45pm every day apart from Tuesdays, when they are closed. Ticket prices start from £25 per person for a 90-minute experience in a shared sauna.

© Beach Box Spa

3. Stay in a boutique treehouse 

Just an hour from London, high above the trees, you’ll find two luxury East Sussex treehouses hidden amongst five-acres of private woodland: Tinker’s Treehouse (ideal for couples) and Oakey Koakey Treehouse (built for families).

Tinker’s Treehouses is a romantic bolthole for two with a downy king-sized bed, modern kitchen and enormous rainfall shower. The sun-trap decking area is made for sundowners. Oakey Koakey is a bigger family-size treehouse, sleeping 2 adults and 2 children. Prices start from £175 per night.

If you’d rather keep your feet on the ground, Downash Wood is also home to four luxury cabins , some of which come with freestanding baths and their own cinema rooms. All are perfect for two.

4. Go on a wine tasting vintage bus tour

The south of England is renowned for its world-class sparkling wine, so it would be rude to visit for the weekend and not explore at least one award-winning vineyard.

Book a Sussex Vineyard Tour on a Vintage London Bus (£125pp) and you can enjoy not one, but two award-winning vineyards. You’ll also enjoy a picnic lunch and two tasting sessions. Best of all, you won’t have to worry about driving as you’ll be chauffeured around the leafy East Sussex countryside in a vintage mini coach.

Day trips run from central Brighton. The vineyards included are the pretty Court Garden Farm near the South Downs and Bluebell Vineyard Estates on the edge of the bluebell-strewn Ashdown Forest, the real-life inspiration for Winnie-the-Pooh.

Other notable vineyards in the area are Ridgeview Wine Estate , Rathfinny Wine Estate, Bolney Wine Estate and Nyetimber Vineyard.

You might also like: Corking Welsh vineyard tour at White Castle Vineyard

5. Splash about in the UK’s only Grade-II Listed Lido

Built in 1938, English Heritage calls Saltdean Lido ‘The Seventh Wonder of the English Seaside’. A little further along from Brighton Marina, it is the only Grade II-listed coastal lido in the country – so is definitely worth a detour on your East Sussex short break.

The community-led space was set to be filled in with concrete in 2010 to make way for apartments, until locals saved it. Now it is slowly being restored to its former Art Deco glory and plans are afoot to add a cafe, exercise centre, library, arts and activities space – and even a ballroom.

Serious swimmers are best to book ahead, with prices starting from £6 for adults and £3.50 for children aged 3 and over. Infants swim free.

You might also like: Take a stylish splash at Thames Lido

© Saltdean Lido

6. Wander around up-and-coming St Leonards-on-Sea

St Leonards-on-Sea is a town and seaside resort in the borough of Hastings in East Sussex. You’ll find it to the west of Hastings, a seaside town that like so many others, has had a resurgence in recent years. St Leonard’s is very much the yin to Hastings’ yan. A bit cooler, arty, and full of places that are better known to locals than tourists.

Head here for independently-owned art galleries, such as Big Yin, Project 78 and the Lucy Bell Gallery. The brilliant Hastings Contemporary, further into town, is also worth a visit.

Vintage treasures can be found on Kings Road. Stop off for a drink with a view at Goat Ledge, which has deckchairs for guests to use, or Grazing on Grand. Foodies should make a beeline for Heist, a dog-friendly indoor food market featuring local indie businesses.

© Visit South East England

7. Head to Ashdown Forest , the real-life Hundred Acre Wood

You can’t head to East Sussex and not visit Ashdown Forest – the real-life setting and inspiration for the Hundred Acre Wood from the Winnie the Pooh stories. Find it just south of  East Grinstead , about 35 minutes from Crawley and under an hour from Brighton and Eastbourne.

This magical woodland is where Christopher Robin, Winnie-the-Pooh, Piglet, Rabbit, Tigger and Eeyore roam in the books, created by AA Milne who lived at the edge of the forest, in a house called Cotchford Farm.

Not just for kids, visitors from around the world come to Ashdown Forest in search of beloved spots like Pooh Sticks Bridge, Roo’s Sandy Pit, Heffalump Trap and the Enchanted Place where Christopher Robin says farewell to his friend. There are two walks at Ashdown Forest that take in the main Pooh sites mentioned in the novels, so choose one (or both) and make your own stories as you wander through the 10-square mile site that sits within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

We recommend stopping at the iconic Pooh Bridge for a game of Pooh Sticks – just don’t snap any branches off the trees to do so. Not cool.

You might also like:  5 woodland escapes in the Forest of Dean

8. Drink up sensational views at the South Coast’s highest bar  

Ever wondered what the spaceship-like structure is that moves up and down on the Brighton coast? It’s the i360, an observation tower that doubles as the highest bar on the South Coast (at a whopping 450ft). And definitely an attraction to put on your things to do in East Sussex list.

The views at the top roll on for miles; you can see from Brighton’s famous pier out over the South Downs, and even see landmarks such as the Seven Sisters Cliffs and the Isle of Wight. Book a 30-minute experience to drink up the views, then wash it down with a glass of something local at the Nyetimber Sky Bar inside.

‘Dine with a view’ meal packages along with events such as Yoga In The Sky happen regularly here. And Daredevils can also climb, abseil or walk on the edge of the i360 tower. i360 Sky Bar Flex start £31.95pp.

9. Walk a pretty part of the world’s longest coastal path

Back in 2020, plans were announced to open the England Coast Path , a 2,800-mile long walking route that runs the entirety of the English coast in partnership with Natural England. The world’s longest coastal path has been opening in sections ever since, and visitors to East Sussex can walk along the county’s super-pretty stretch right now.

The East Sussex section , which opened to the public in summer 2022, is 33-miles (53km) long and runs from Telscombe to Eastbourne Pier. Along the way you can take in the wondrous sights of Seven Sisters Country Park and Beachy Head, the highest sea chalk cliff in Britain.

© Sam Knight/Unsplash

10. Treasure hunt amongst Brighton’s bohemian Lanes

Put Brighton on your list of things to do in East Sussex and make a beeline for the city’s famous shopping lanes – known simply as The Lanes.

A quirky labyrinth of narrow alleyways and hidden squares, The Lanes are a tumble of independent shops, galleries, and eateries – and are also home to a legendary jewellery quarter. Parts of The Lanes date back to the late 16th Century when Brighton was a small fishing town called Brighthelmston. Even if you’re not shopping, they’re worth a visit just to soak up the unique, bohemian vibe – quite different from the rest of Brighton.

© Visit Brighton

11. Go pub hopping in delightful Rye

Rye is a historic town in East Sussex that’s is as idyllic as it sounds. Find it nestled between Hastings to the west and Dungeness to the east, where the English Channel is at its most narrow.

Regularly voted one of the prettiest places to visit in the UK, and just over an hour from London by train, it’s a cluster of medieval streets and ancient buildings built around a sandstone hillside. Naturally, visitors love Rye; and thirsty visitors love Rye’s pubs. We have a soft spot for the 600-year-old Mermaid Inn , once a famous smugglers’ pub that is said to be haunted. You can also stay the night if you dare.

Other pubs definitely worth checking out include The George In Rye (also a hotel), the award-winning Rye Waterworks Micropub and locals’ secret, The Ypres Castle Inn , which has a beer garden overlooking Rye Castle (note they are closed Mondays-Wednesdays). For late night cocktails and live music head to The Grapevine , a champagne and jazz bar open until 1am every night.

© Adam Tams/Unsplash

12. Walk the dunes at beautiful Camber Sands

If the sun is shining – or at least if there’s no rain – one of the best things you can do in East Sussex is take a day trip to Camber Sands.

Used as a location in many films and TV shows, such as The Crown and Ricky Gervais’ After Life, Camber Sands is one of the best beaches in the UK without doubt. Its unspoilt sands run on for almost 5 miles and it features one of the purest and longest dune systems on the South Coast, and the only one to be found in East Sussex.

You can walk to Camber Sands from Rye in about an hour; alternatively, take the car and it’s a 10-minute drive (just beware of the narrow roads to the car parks that get clogged up in peak season).

For those on a dog-friendly weekend , Camber Sands welcomes dogs on some areas of the beach all year round. Exclusion zones apply from 1 May to 30 September.

© Chris Mitchell/Unsplash

13. Visit a fairytale castle or two

As the gateway into England, many a defensive fortress can be found on the Sussex Coast and there are a fair few still standing today that are well worth a visit.

A must is Hastings Castle – Britain’s first Norman castle built by William the Conqueror in 1067. Here you can wander the ruins and discover all about the Norman invasion of 1066 (entry is £6.25 for adults). Top tip: buy a handy 3-in-1 ticket to combine your trip to Hastings Castles with a visit to Smugglers Adventure and Hastings Aquarium.

Rye Castle , also known as Ypres Tower, makes another wonderful pit-stop (entry to castle is £4, the museum is free) thanks to its fascinating, eclectic history: it’s been a stronghold in battles with the French over the years, as well as a private dwelling, a prison, and a court house. Afterwards, pop into the locals’ favourite The Ypres Castle Inn for a drink and bite to eat.

National Trust-owned Bodiam Castle is one of Britain’s most picturesque ancient monuments with its own moat, plus a tearoom that looks out over the River Rother (entry is £11 for adults).

If you’re after a seismic shot of Bridgerton vibes, head to Hertmonceux Castle Estate (pronounced herst-mon-zoo) in the beautiful East Sussex countryside. Also home to a moat, this 15th-century red-brick masterpiece is 300 stunning acres of castle, themed and formal gardens, woodland trails, lakes and meadows (entry is £8 for adults).

PS: remember to check opening times before you visit, as some castles only operate during warmer months, while others are open all-year round.

© Vlad Ardeleanu/Unsplash

14. Explore the former home of Rudyard Kipling

If famous stately homes tickle your fancy, a visit to Bateman’s – the East Sussex former home of author Rudyard Kipling – is well worth an afternoon or day trip.

Surrounded by the wooded landscape of the Sussex Weald, this 17 th Century Jacobean manor with pretty gardens was snapped up by Kipling and his wife Carrie in 1902 after they fell in love with the house at first sight.

At this point Kipling was a world-famous author, with The Jungle Book an international success, and Bateman’s became his sanctuary. A few years after moving in, Kipling cemented his literary success by being awarded the Nobel Prize for literature.

After her husband died in 1936, Kipling’s wife signed the house over to the National Trust, and care has been taken to keep as much of it as if the Kiplings had just popped out. Entry is £14 for adults and £7 for children.

© National Trust Images/John Miller

15. Paddleboard on the South East’s largest reservoir

Bewl Water is the largest open stretch of water in the South East. Open all year round, it’s an 800-acre site set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and offers a wealth of water-based fun, including paddleboarding , rowing, its own water park or wild swimming.

As well as watersports, Bewl Water parkland has miles of scenic natural pathways to walk, cycle, run or hike – ideal for adventurous weekenders. There’s an array of wildlife to spot here too and kids will love the open-air laser tag on site also.

After a paddle or a walk, stop off at the Waterfront Cafe for a coffee or spot of lunch. You can even turn your trip into a holiday and camp on site, stay in one of their Yurts, or hideout at nearby Downash Wood in one of their gorgeous cabins or treehouses.

16. Enjoy a guided walk through gorgeous East Sussex countryside

The East Sussex countryside has more than enough beauty to fill your time. A guided tour through some of its best bits with a local tour guide is a must if you’d like to learn a little more about its charming villages and landscapes as you go. And we recommend booking a tour with Sussex Walks .

Host and local resident Kathryn offers some fascinating walks, including a circular tour of Arundel and a 3-4 mile Tree Tunnel and Windmill Walk.

Starting north of Chichester in a traditional country pub, you’ll pass a local vineyard and cross into the South Downs National Park before reaching Halnaker Windmill , where you’ll have time to admire the 360-degree view from the top. On a clear day you can see as far as the Isle of Wight. History buffs will love learning about Boxgrove Man, the oldest human remains ever found in England.

The walk last 2-3 hours and is easy to moderate. Prices start from £13.60pp (depending on group size).

17. Feast at one of the 23 Michelin-approved restaurants

With its close proximity to both the sea and the countryside, East Sussex offers a great hub of quality foodie experiences when you’re looking for things to do. There are currently 23 Michelin-approved restaurants in the area. Not all have Michelin stars – some have been awarded prestigious Bib Gourmands for their fabulous quality food and value for money.

For responsible fine dining, head to Tillingham wine estate in Peamarsh; the restaurant was awarded a Green Michelin Star in 2023 and is well worth a detour.

Other restaurants noted by Michelin include Burnt Orange in Brighton, The Royal in St Leonards-on-Sea, The Bell pub in Ticehurst and The Star in Alfriston.

Alternatively, if you fancy yourself as a bit of a chef, book a Gourmet Cooking Class at the private Sussex home of a restauranteur. Prices start from £74pp.

18. Journey back in time on the Bluebell Steam Railway

Journey through the East Sussex countryside in style with a ride on the Bluebell Steam Railway in Brighton. This vintage lunchtime tour starts from the Bluebell Railway Museum, where you’ll learn about the station and see the restoration sheds where trains and carriages are being restored.

After your tour, your locomotive arrives and you’re taken on an hour journey through the Sussex countryside. After you’re back at the station, you’re driven to Bluebell Vineyard Estates for a special cheese-tasting lunch awaits prepared for you by High Weald Dairy.

After lunch, an expert guide will take you on a tour of the vineyard and winery to learn how English sparkling wine is made, explaining the process from grape to glass. This is followed by wine tasting on their sun terrace.

19. Wakeboard or water ski at Newhaven

Strap in for an adrenaline-fuelled afternoon in the water at Newhaven, 30 minutes down the road from Brighton. Here, Maverick Boat Adventures (MBA), based in Newhaven marina East Sussex, run wakeboarding, water skiing and inflatable rides.

The fully-trained, professional watersports instructors take great care of you, helping you find your feet if you’re a beginner or progress your skills if you’ve. Of course, if wakeboarding or water skiing isn’t for you hop on an an inflatable and enjoy the thrill without worrying about the skills.

20. Boat tripping to Seven Sisters cliffs

The Seven Sisters are a series of dove-white chalk sea cliffs on the English Channel coast – and, undoubtedly, one of the most iconic sights to add to your list of things to do in East Sussex. You can easily walk along the cliffs on one of the most popular routes from Seaford to Eastbourne.

However, for a unique and rare look at Seven Sisters you can’t beat a leisurely boat trip on a small-group tour. The tour leaves from Newhaven via Tide Mills, Seaford Bay, Splash Point, Hope Gap and Cuckmere Haven. It gives you a chance to see the beautiful cliffs up close, spot dolphins, seals, and kittiwakes, plus you learn about the area’s smuggling past on the way.

You sail with a local guide, who’s descended from smugglers, and discover exactly what life was like for pirates in the 18 th century.

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In this article

• Brighton's Wonders
• Seaside Sauna
• Treehouse Stay
• Saltdean Lido
• St Leonards-on-Sea
• Hundred Acre Wood
• Drink at The Sky Bar
• England Coast Path
• Brighton's Famous Lanes
• Rye Pub Hopping
• Fairytale Castles
• Rudyard Kipling's Home
• Bewl Water Paddling
• Michelin-Approved Feasting
• Bluebell Steam Railway
• Wakeboarding at Newhaven

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From wine tasting at Ridgeview Wine to exploring Charleston and Alfriston, these are the best places to visit in East Sussex, England!

I feel like East Sussex is one of those counties that has so much going for it.

It’s got the natural beauty of the Seven Sisters cliffs and the South Downs National Park ; it’s got cool creative towns to explore in Brighton, Hastings and Rye; and there’s an abundance of history in places like Bodiam Castle .

Forget about a weekend, you could easily spend a month and still not see all there is to do in East Sussex.

That’s why I wanted to come up with some of the best places to visit in East Sussex to help plan your trip here.

Everyone knows about Brighton and it’s packed with tourists, that’s why I wanted to highlight a few other places you might not have thought of. 

How about wine tasting in the foothills of the South Downs National Park? Or visiting Charleston , the historic artists residence to Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant?

It’s very easy to have an amazing weekend in East Sussex without hitting all of the popular hotspots.

In this blog post, I am going to highlight a few of my favourite things to do in East Sussex. As I said, I love it here.

Make sure you save this post for the future, and I really hope it helps you plan your trip to this gorgeous part of England .

Looking for another weekend break in the UK? Then check out my guides to Guernsey , Hampshire , Tetbury , Shropshire and Whitstable .

Gourmet Garden Trails

For those of you short on time and looking for inspiration, I’d really recommend taking a look at Gourmet Garden Trails .

This is an exciting new tourism product delivered by a number of local tourism organisations in partnership with Visit England, packed full of suggested itineraries focusing on England’s finest food and glorious gardens – hence the name Gourmet Garden Trails!

There are experiences in cookery courses, brewery and vineyard tours, gorgeous gardens, local museums and independent restaurants, all topped off with some of the finest accommodation around. It gives visitors a real taste of England at their fingertips.

My trip essentially followed the 3 days of food and wine in the South Downs which was brilliant (more on that below).

So far there are Gourmet Garden Trails in Cheshire, East Sussex, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, The Peak District & Derbyshire and West Sussex.

As I said, if you’re looking for some top-quality itineraries, then check out GGT. Information and inspiration – what more could you want!?

Best Places to Visit in East Sussex

Ridgeview wine.

If you’ve never heard of Ridgeview before, you’re in for a treat. This is a vineyard producing some of the best sparkling wines in the world. Honestly, the wines really are that good here. The fact they won ‘Winemaker of the Year’ at the International Wine and Spirit Competition in 2018 is testament to that.

Located close to the quaint village of Ditchling in East Sussex, Ridgeview has a reputation for producing full flavoured sparkling wines.

With the green rolling hills of the South Downs in the background, this is such a stunning vineyard to go on a wine tour.

The vines were planted way back in 1995 when the UK wine industry was still very niche. Since then, the wine industry has boomed, and Ridgeview have been at the forefront of that.

One of the reasons East Sussex is the perfect place for producing wine is due to the chalky soil (very similar to the Champagne region in France), a temperate climate, and a sea breeze to blow away any disease. All of this means the UK is actually an incredible place for producing wine. I bet you didn’t know that!

The best thing to do here is to go on a tour of the vineyard learning all about how they produce wine here. My favourite bit (naturally) was trying all the different English sparkling wines from the tasting room directly overlooking the vines. I honestly think the wine tastes better when you’re surrounded by that view.

A Ridgeview tour takes 1.5 hours and costs £15 for the standard tour, or £20 for the Classic tour (this one involves tasting their vintage range).

Ditchling Beacon

Close to Ridgeview is the little village of Ditchling. If you’re passing through for lunch, The Green Welly Cafe is a great place to eat at. Alternatively, afternoon tea of sandwiches and scones at The Nutmeg Tree is another option too.

Just on the outskirts of the village and up a massive hill, you’ll find Ditchling Beacon. This is one of the best viewpoints overlooking East Sussex and it’s well worth visiting.

There is a paid car park at the top of the hill. Usually during the summer holidays there’s an ice cream van at the top too.

For those of you looking to explore more of the area, Ditchling Beacon is on the South Downs Way. This means it’s the perfect place picking up the trail and going for a walk.

The most popular route is from Ditching Beacon to Devil’s Dyke . This is a 3-hour, 7-mile walk that follows the ridgeway to Devil’s Dyke. I haven’t done this myself yet, but it’s on my British bucket list.

During spring and summer, the grass is covered with vibrant wild flowers that bring a touch of colour to the landscape.

If you don’t fancy the whole walk though, even getting an ice cream at the beacon and admiring the view is incredible.

When you get up here yourself, you’ll quickly see why this is one of the top places to visit in East Sussex. I just wish I had a bit longer to explore all the area has to offer.

For my East Sussex itinerary, I stayed in the cute little village of Alfriston. With its chocolate-box-pretty pubs, wonky medieval buildings and independent shops, it’s amazing how much there is to do here for such a tiny village.

Bookworms will completely fall in love with Much Ado Books , an independent bookshop that’s jammed packed with unknown authors just waiting the be discovered. Opposite this, fashion lovers will enjoy browsing through the rails of vintage clothes in the Dressing Room .

If you’re looking for the best cake and cream tea in Alfriston, then pop into Badgers Tea House . This was once the village bakery, and that tradition lives strong with the cakes and pastries they have on offer.

To really get a feel for village life, make sure you walk around the Tye (the local village green) where you’ll find St Andrew’s Church. This church is known as the ‘Cathedral of the South Downs’, and from my photo you can see why.

While I was in Alfriston, I stayed at The Star , an old 15th century inn that’s now a hotel and restaurant owned by TV presenter Alex Polizzi. This place has been hyped up as one of the top hotels in East Sussex, and it’s easy to see why.

The Star, housed in a mixture of new and old buildings, has been rebuilt recently. This gives it a really nice blend of comforting modern rooms and a stylish restaurant with ancient beams and secret corners throughout the hotel.

The restaurant is amazing too. Simple Italian cooking done incredibly well. I really loved my meals here.

For me, Charleston really highlighted what my Gourmet Garden Trails itinerary was all about. I wouldn’t usually visit a local museum like Charleston, but I found it absolutely fascinating.

Charleston was once the historic home to Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant, two modernist artists from the 1920s. Together, they created a quirky home that’s like a living museum with each room individually styled and painted.

Not only that though, they also created a movement.

Charleston used to be a focal point for some of the 20 th century’s most radical artists, writers and thinkers who collectively became known as the Bloomsbury group.

It is where they came together to imagine society differently, and has always been a place where art and experimental thinking are at the centre of everyday life.

Today, Charleston is a memorial to not only those great artists who once walked these walls and gardens, but it celebrates all artists with ever-changing exhibitions and festivals.

At Charleston, they believe in the power of art, in all its forms, to provoke new ways of thinking and living.

I didn’t know anything about Charleston or the Bloomsbury group, so it was great learning more all about this.

Tickets to the main house at Charleston cost £16 for adults, and under 18s go free which I thought was a nice touch.

Tickets for the exhibitions cost £9.90 for adults, and again under 18s go free.

Middle Farm

Another place to visit in East Sussex, especially if you’ve got little ones, is Middle Farm . This is just over the road from Charleston.

Middle Farm is one of those places that has something for everyone. For the kids, you can say hello to the donkeys, llamas, ponies and pigs. This is a great opportunity for them to learn about farm life.

For the adults, where to begin! There’s a really lovely tea room with delicious scones, a butcher with top quality meats from the farm, cheeses from the surrounding area, or perhaps my favourite place, the cider and perry shop.

The cider and perry shop was the largest I’ve ever seen. They have over 100 different ciders and perries on sale here. With that many on sale, the best thing to do is taste a few and then fill up a bottle of your favourite. It’s the proper local experience.

Seven Sisters

For me, this is one of the most iconic images of England. When I realised this viewpoint of the Seven Sisters was only 15 minutes away from Alfriston, I just had to visit.

The Seven Sisters cliffs are part of a magnificent stretch of coastline between Seaford and Eastbourne. This area is designated and protected as a ‘Heritage Coast’, and is the finest example of unprotected chalk cliffs in Britain.

One of the best things to do at the Seven Sisters is to go on the Beachy Head walk . This is a walk from Eastbourne to the Birling Gap where you have a view of the Seven Sister but from the other side of the cliffs. You can read all about this walk here .

This time around though, I wanted to get to this famous viewpoint. Parking at South Hill Barn Car Park, it’s just a short 15-minute walk to the Seven Sisters Cottages and this view.

It’s also well worth taking in the view from Hope Gap too. When it comes to places to visit in East Sussex, this one really is right up there.

Rathfinny Wine Estate

Another vineyard that champions the best of East Sussex is Rathfinny Wine Estate . Despite being a relatively new vineyard (it was founded in 2010), Rathfinny are quickly establishing themselves as one of the top producers of English sparkling wine in the country.

Much like Ridgeview, Rathfinny also has very chalky soil with a strong sea breeze to blow away any disease. All this means you’re left with an absolutely delicious bottle of sparkling wine.

The best way of learning about the wine at Rathfinny is to go on a tour that takes you around the estate and shows how they make wine here. Tours run over the weekend and cost £25 per person.

There are also two restaurants on the estate. The Tasting Room is considered to be one of the best restaurants in East Sussex. Since it opened in 2018, it has been awarded The Place Michelin for two years running.

The other restaurant is The Flint Barns, a much for casual restaurant down in the vines themselves. I had lunch at The Flint Barns and it was absolutely delicious. I had the seafood platter with a glass of the classic cuvee. Honestly, the food and bubbles taste a lot better when you’re surrounded by vines!

This post was in association with Sussex Modern and Visit England promoting the new Gourmet Garden Trails. As always, views are entirely my own and without bias.

Are you planning a trip to East Sussex? Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below and I’ll get back to you!

Need a place to stay? Then check out this beautiful getaway in Sussex . I really enjoyed staying here, and it was a great place exploring some more places nearby.

Like this post? Then make sure you Pin it for the future!

About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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Indoor activities

Find indoor activities for half term holidays, bank holiday weekends, seaside escapes and city breaks. Take your pick from indoor attractions and such as free museums and other indoor attractions such as aquariums and galleries, or if you’re feeling braver, there are climbing centres, underground caverns and cycle velodromes. You can tour television studios and explore living history heritage attractions, or even whet your whistle on a brewery tour. Whatever you fancy doing, England is packed with indoor activities and things to do on a rainy day.

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Location: Leicester, Leicestershire

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Broaden your knowledge of the British Army and the various battles fought throughout history at Winchester’s six Military Museums.

Location: Winchester, Hampshire

Travel back in time at Milestones Museum

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Location: Basingstoke, Hampshire

Rainy Day Activities: Get hands on at the National Football Museum

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Location: Manchester, Greater Manchester

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Location: Manchester

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Location: Blackpool, Lancashire

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Location: Swindon, Wiltshire

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Location: Birmingham, West Midlands

Nine floors of silver-screens

A visit to the National Media Museum is a must if you love photography, film, television, animation, gaming or the internet.

Location: Bradford, West Yorkshire

Rainy Day Activities: Watch films in style at The Electric Birmingham

Lounge on a sofa with a drink in hand and watch the latest blockbusters at the UK's oldest working cinema.

Rainy Day Activities: Find out what lies beneath Exeter

Escape the rain to explore Exeter’s Underground Passages and the Royal Albert Memorial Museum - ideal indoor attractions for a drizzly day.

Location: Exeter, Devon

Rainy Day Activities: Catch a show at award-winning kids’ theatre, the egg

Looking for something to do when it rains that'll keep the kids entertained and adults smiling? Try a show or creative workshop at the egg.

Location: Bath, Somerset

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Indoor Attractions in Sussex for Cold Winter Days

As the chilly winds of winter sweep across the country, it’s time to explore the warmth of indoor attractions in Sussex. 

Whether you’re looking for family fun, educational experiences, or a touch of culture, Sussex has a variety of indoor offerings to make your winter days memorable. 

Here are some top picks for indoor attractions in Sussex, perfect for those looking for things to do in Sussex during the colder months.

Warming Up With History

Step back in time and warm up with the rich tapestry of Sussex’s history at these historically significant indoor attractions.

Located in Chichester, the Tangmere Military Aviation Museum is a treasure trove for history buffs. Situated on the old Tangmere airfield, this museum educates visitors about the UK’s military aviation heritage, making it a perfect indoor destination for all ages.

Dive into history with a visit to Smugglers Adventure in Hastings . This underground network of secret tunnels and caverns offers a thrilling journey through time. While Hastings Castle, perched atop West Hill, provides a historical exploration with breathtaking views.

Explore the vast, echoing tunnels of Newhaven Fort , an impressive historical site with panoramic views of the South Downs and Sussex Coast. It’s an indoor adventure that ignites the imagination.

Located at the South Downs Heritage Centre, the Museum of Gardening offers an insight into the history of gardening. It’s an indoor haven for gardening enthusiasts.

Winter Family Fun in Sussex

Embrace the joy of winter with these family-friendly indoor attractions in Sussex, perfect for fun and learning.

The Sovereign Centre in Eastbourne is an ideal indoor spot for those who love water activities. It’s a great place for family entertainment with a fun pool, wave machine, flume, and a soft play area for the little ones.

Little Street provides a unique role-play experience for children. With locations in Chichester and Horsham, it’s an ideal indoor attraction for young explorers, featuring a scaled-down realistic town with various interactive areas.

Paradise Park in Newhaven offers an indoor Heritage Trail and Gardens, along with the Museum of Life. It’s a fascinating destination for those interested in dinosaurs, fossils, and natural history.

A Wonderful Winter Experience in Sussex

Discover the magic of Sussex in winter with these unique indoor experiences, offering everything from scenic journeys to cultural delights.

Experience the charm of vintage travel with the Bluebell Railway . Operating along an 11-mile track, this railway offers a unique indoor experience as you travel through the picturesque Sussex countryside.

For breathtaking views, head to Brighton i360 . Glide up in the glass viewing pod and enjoy stunning 360-degree views of Brighton and beyond – a perfect indoor activity for those clear winter days.

For theatre lovers, the Chichester Festival Theatre is a must-visit. Known for its high-quality productions, it’s a cultural gem in the heart of Sussex.

The South Downs Planetarium in Chichester offers an educational and entertaining indoor experience for all ages, with its star projector and celestial displays.

Embrace the Warmth of Sussex’s Indoor Attractions

Sussex’s indoor attractions offer diverse activities, ensuring that there’s something for everyone during the winter months. 

From historical explorations to theatrical experiences and educational adventures, these attractions provide the perfect escape from the cold, making your winter in Sussex both enjoyable and memorable.

If you want to know what’s on in Sussex during January and February, visit our events page . 

Latest Updates

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Easter Events and Easter Break Activities in East Sussex

Things to do in East Sussex this March (Including Mother’s Day!)

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Places to Visit in East Sussex (England)

15 Best Places to Visit in East Sussex (England)

On the southeast coast, East Sussex is a county that will take you back to England’s very foundation.

The decisive Battle of Hastings was fought here, and William the Conqueror built his first fortresses in East Sussex.

Amid all this history is Brighton, England’s most progressive city, and a sort of miniature London on the south coast.

Visit Brighton for culture, shopping and nightlife.

And then set off on jaunt to see East Sussex’s ancient coastal towns, which have weatherboard houses, romantic tales of smugglers and ghostly 19th-century defences built for a French invasion that never came.

Lets explore the best places to visit in East Sussex :

1. Brighton

The largest city in the county, Brighton is loved by tourists and the home of Britain’s largest LBGT community outside London.

Visitors are seduced by the city’s history, as well as Brighton’s youthful  and creative character.

There’s infamous nightlife and loads of leftfield, alternative shops and cafes, but also all of the old-time pleasures of an English seaside resort, as the Palace Pier makes clear.

With minarets and onion domes, The Royal Pavilion is a whimsical palace built for the future George IV while he was still a prince in late-1700s.

It was inspired by Indian and Islamic styles, fashionable during the days of the empire.

You have to go in for a tour, and with the help of an audio-guide you’ll get insights about the opulent lifestyle of the Prince Regent.

Historic Rye clings to a hill between the Rivers Rother and Brede, close to where they enter the sea and was an important port in days gone by.

The higher, older part of the town, known as the citadel is a dream to explore on foot.

There are steep, winding cobblestone streets and their weatherboard houses are still redolent of the 18th-century smugglers who planned their capers in this town.

There are old fortifications up here from when Rye was one of the Cinque Ports.

Rye Castle is a museum giving you a window on the town’s truly fascinating history, as does the excellent Rye Heritage Centre.

For some beach time hit Camber Sands, possibly the best beach on the English Channel coast.

The county town of East Sussex, Lewes is heaving with historical and cultural importance.

Keere Street is the place to dive into Lewes’ old quarter, with its cobblestones and medieval timber-framed houses.

Scramble up to Lewes Castle, constructed right after the conquest and with a great museum, and see the home that Anne of Cleves was given in her divorce from Henry VIII.  Glyndebourne is a country house that has become synonymous in England with opera, and has a calendar of performances in the summer that are part of aristocratic society’s “summer season”. The intervals last for more than an hour and give spectators time to picnic on the beautiful lawns.

Also associated with high culture is Charleston, a gorgeous farmhouse where members of the Bloomsbury Group of artists and writers lived and worked.

4. Hastings

This town has a distinct look for East Sussex, because it’s right where the sandstone Weald enters the English Channel.

So the cliffs that rise menacingly behind the town have a reddish brown colour.

These bluffs were handy for smugglers, who were able to dig networks of tunnels for storing contraband and evading the authorities.

These are now one of Hastings’ top attractions.

Also must-dos are the cliff railways, two of the steepest funiculars in the country.

And you can’t pass up a visit to the old town at the base of the cliffs, an area of winding streets, painted weatherboard houses and inns where grizzled seafarers would have drunk in centuries past.

A momentous episode in English history unfolded right here in 1066, when William the Conqueror defeated Harold II to begin the Norman conquest of England.

As soon as England was under Norman yoke, a Benedictine abbey was built on the battleground as penance for all of the violence of the conquest.

The abbey church has been a ruin since the 1500s, but there’s a stone on the ground where the high alter used to be marking the spot where Harold fell.

Over time a community took shape around the abbey, eventually giving us the sweet little town we see now.

There’s a market in front of the abbey every Friday and Saturday and a high street lined with artisan shops, tea rooms and pubs.

6. Eastbourne

This town is like a more sedate and grown-up version of Brighton, and first came to society’s attention when the Children of George III holidayed here in the 1780s.

There’s a beach, three-tiered promenade and elegant Victorian pier, but few of the amusements that are a fixture of many English seaside towns.

Instead the foreshore is fringed by imposing regency townhouses and hotels, and there are classy amenities like the bandstand and three sumptuous old theatres.

A mile or two southwest of Eastbourne towers the awesome Beachy Head, the highest chalk sea cliff in the country, at more than 160 metres.

This landmark has been the subject of sea shanties since at least the 17th century.

Spare some time for Eastbourne Redoubt, a coastal fort built during the Napoleonic Wars and restored as a museum.

7. St Leonards-on-Sea

Originally a different town, St Leonards was absorbed by Hastings in the 1800s but has managed to keep a distinct identity.

This district has a looser, artier feel for its studios, vintage stores, stylish cafes and antiques shops.

Norman Road and Mercatoria best demonstrate this amiable match of creativity and scruffiness.

If you love regency architecture then St Leonards will definitely be your kind of place as most of the original town was plotted in one go in the early-1800s.

And then on the seafront be dazzled by the gargantuan Marine Court, an art deco apartment block from 1937 designed to resemble an ocean liner.

In medieval times Seaford had one of the south’s most active ports, but the town went into decline when the harbour silted up.

Later the Victorians discovered the long pebble beaches and a second era of prosperity arrived.

In the early-1800s England made plans to cope with what seemed like an inevitable land invasion by Napoleon.

The Martello tower built as a defence is in fine nick and holds an informative museum about this period.

Just east of the town, the chalk valleys of the South Downs meet the sea in the most epic fashion.

Rising and falling off into the distance are the Seven Sisters, a chain of undulating chalk cliffs best viewed from Seaford Head.

Belonging to the same conurbation as Brighton, but with a very different character, Hove is a place where people settle when they’ve had enough of Brighton’s bustle.

This town is an altogether grander and more genteel place, with regal boulevards and streets of stuccoed and whitewashed four-storey regency townhouses.

Church Road is the main thoroughfare in Hove, underpinning the town’s sense of prosperity.

The pebble beach is traced by the promenade that will lead you all the way to Brighton, and there’s a small amusement park for kids and the Hove Museum and Art Gallery recalls life in 19th-century Hove.

At the County Cricket Ground you can catch the occasional England one-day international match from the comfort of a bench or deck chair.

10. Alfriston

This village in the lush Cuckmere Valley is as twee as it gets, and has lots of fun surprises.

Take the village lockup, where offenders would have been imprisoned overnight and made from local flint.

On the high street are sweet shops, tea rooms, a vintage bookshop and half-timbered pubs.

The most endearing of these may be the Star Inn, with roots going back to the 14th century and where a notorious smuggling gang used to hang out in the 1800s.

The wattle and daub Alfriston Clergy house is also from the 14th century, and has timber framing and a thatched roof.

It was sold to the National Trust in 1896 and became their first ever property.

11. Bexhill-on-Sea

Not just a place to visit on isolated hot days in the summer, Bexhill is the kind of seaside town where you could easily spend a night or two.

There are several aspects to the resort’s allure, whether it’s the medieval old town of weatherboard and flint houses, or the Victorian resort, developed in the blink of an eye in the 1890s as a chic getaway for high society.

The beaches are the biggest draw in July and August, but a lot of visitors come a long way to see the stunning De La Warr Pavilion.

Now a modern art museum and cultural centre, the pavilion was one of England’s earliest modernist buildings, completed in 1935 with a fusion of the art deco and international styles.

12. Pevensey

At one of the few gaps in East Sussex’s long wall of chalk cliffs lies the town of Pevensey and its seafront community Pevensey Bay.

This was the exact location where the Normans landed in England in 1066. The seaside is all the better for its low-impact, village-like development and has a long string of pebble beaches.

Move inland and you get to the old part of Pevensey, a town of pubs with names like “Smugglers Inn” and cute weatherboard houses.

Pevensey Castle is from the earliest days of the Norman Invasion, but even  more interesting is that they simply occupied and enhanced the ruins of the 3rd-century Roman fort, Anderitum.

The site is a ruin but has more than enough of its keep and outer walls to keep you riveted.

13. Winchelsea

This historic village has an interesting story to tell: Up to 1287 it was a large harbour, importing wine from Gascony and home to possibly thousands of people until it was destroyed all at once by a flood.

In some ways that’s good for us because Winchelsea was moved to higher ground and constructed in the space of months during the reign of Edward I. It’s easy to see the “new” town’s grid layout, as well as the defensive walls, as three of the old gates remain.

These are worthwhile sights, as is the Church of St Thomas the Martyr for its fabulous stained glass.

Buried in the churchyard is the famous 20th-century humorist and writer Spike Milligan.

14. Burwash

Set in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Burwash is a small but lively village in enchanting countryside.

The high street has charming bed & breakfasts, country pubs and specialty shops.

The village is best known as the residence of Rudyard Kipling, who won the Nobel Prize for literature at the turn of the 20th century and wrote the Jungle Book, among other works.

His home, Bateman’s, is a handsome Jacobean house from the 1600s and is open to the public.

The interior is like a time capsule, left exactly how it was after the author’s wife bequeathed it to the National Trust when she passed away in 1939.

15. Newhaven

Most people’s experience of Newhaven will be departing for, or arriving from, the French port of Dieppe.

But if you have time on your hands you could definitely use it to poke around some of Newhaven’s sights.

The marquee attraction is Newhaven Fort, the largest defensive structure ever built in Sussex.

This is a Palmerston Fort, constructed when France was deemed a real threat once more during Napoleon III’s rule in the mid-1800s.

The extent of the underground tunnels as part of the caponier is incredible.

Paradise Park is one for the kids, with exhibits that help bring dinosaurs to life, large adventure playgrounds and a miniature railway.

Parents can content themselves with the tranquil gardens and cafe.

15 Best Places to Visit in East Sussex (England):

• St Leonards-on-Sea
• Bexhill-on-Sea

A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 15 Places to Visit in East Sussex

Today I want to bring you my list of the best places to visit in East Sussex. There are a lot of great local attractions and travel destinations in this coastal county in southeast England. Whether you love city breaks, country escapes, or seaside fun on the English Channel, there’s somewhere in East Sussex that will fit your style. If you’re looking for your next day trip or weekend getaway from London, my list will help you find the ideal location for you. I’ve included a map as well.

Places to Visit in East Sussex

My guide to places to visit in East Sussex features a variety of locations. From the English countryside to the seaside, the vibrant cities to the lovely lighthouses, there’s somewhere you’ll want to go.

East Sussex is famous for its history, coast, castles, and more. It’s one of the best places to visit in the UK for its wealth of things to do and see, from urban areas like Brighton to rural retreats in the South Downs.

Whether you’re looking for scenic drives near London , fun day trips, country breaks , or exciting weekend getaways, the area offers a range of options.

Whatever your preference, you’ll find something on my list to tempt you to travel to East Sussex.

1. Brighton, East Sussex

First on my list of places to visit in East Sussex is Brighton. Down on the south coast of England, Brighton is one of the best day trips from London.

Along with neighboring Hove, this city is known for its pebble beaches, historic pleasure pier, and Royal Pavilion. Narrow streets in The Lanes and North Laine burst with colorful cafes and shops, too.

It’s easy to take a day trip to Brighton . The city is just an hour by train from the UK capital, and it’s one of the top places to go to the seaside near London .

You can stay longer, too. With 2 days in Brighton you can see everything from the English Channel to the shopping streets and main attractions. You’ll have time to hit the beach and take in the city’s famous nightlife and street art scenes, too.

If you want to take this trip, you can book a hotel in Brighton here . I’ve stayed at the Brighton Harbour Hotel and Spa and I love its maritime decor and location directly on the seaside. You can book a room here .

2. Rye, East Sussex

Rye comes next on my list of the best places to visit in East Sussex. This beautiful spot is graced with cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, haunted hotels, and idyllic cottages. It’s one of the prettiest towns in England .

There are lots of fun things to do in Rye , too. From climbing the bell tower of the local church to touring the former home of writer Henry James and exploring the colorful shops, this town has a lot to experience.

Rye is also a short walk from Camber Castle, a historic number with Henry VIII connections. It’s one of the top castles near London . There’s a fortress in town, too. The 13th-century Ypres Tower is one of the oldest buildings in Rye.

And that’s to say nothing of the town’s proximity to beaches on the south coast. It’s fun to combine a trip to Rye with a visit to some of the local seaside areas.

Rye is an easy train ride from London, so you can do it as a day trip or a two-day getaway. It’s one of my favorite weekend trips from London , and I’ve done it many times.

If you want to do this as an overnight trip, you can book a hotel in Rye here . If you want something unique, the Mermaid Inn is said to be haunted. You can book a room here .

3. Camber Sands, East Sussex

Not far from Rye, Camber Sands is another of the top places to visit in East Sussex. It’s known for its sand and shingle beach and the beautiful dunes that back its shoreline. In fact, it has the only sand dune system in the vicinity.

Camber Sands is one of the best beaches in East Sussex . Its long stretch of white sandy beach is unique in the area, and the views over the English Channel are stunning.

This beach is popular with kite-flyers, windsurfers and kiteboarders, too. It’s a great place to catch the breeze on or off the water.

It’s the perfect spot to bring a dog in the warmer months, too. Every time I visit Camber Sands there are dogs galore.

Camber Sands is one of my favorite beach day trips from London . You can also stay a night and do it with Rye in one trip. If you want to do this as a two-day trip or weekend getaway, you can book a hotel in Rye here .

4. Eastbourne, East Sussex

Also on the south coast, Eastbourne is another of the best places to visit in East Sussex. If you love the English seaside, there are great beaches to sunbathe on, a pleasure pier to discover, and live music at the waterfront bandstand to enjoy.

Away from the shore, Eastbourne has Victorian shopping streets in Little Chelsea. The shops offer everything from home goods to antiques. And that’s to say nothing of the Towner, an eye-catching contemporary art museum in town.

Eastbourne is easy to get to by train from London. You can do it as a day trip, but a weekend in Eastbourne will give you enough time to discover the town and the surrounding area at your own pace.

If you want to do this as a weekend trip from London by train or car, you can book a hotel in Eastbourne here . I’ve stayed at The Lansdowne Hotel and it has an ideal waterfront location. You can book a room here .

5. Beachy Head, East Sussex

Just outside Eastbourne, Beachy Head is another of the best places to visit in East Sussex. This chalk headland and its famous lighthouse draw visitors from all over Britain (and beyond).

After you arrive by car or by bus from Eastbourne, you can visit The Beachy Head Story, a small museum and visitor center with information about the history and geography of England’s South Downs.

It’s next door to The Beachy Head pub, where you can get food and drinks. This Victorian number has a rustic interior and serves seasonal British food.

Beachy Head is also a great place for coastal walks. At 531 feet (162 meters) above sea level, the cliff here is the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain. That means there are great views across the English Channel.

The Beachy Head lighthouse is another draw. This famous beacon in the sea below the cliffs is a local icon. It’s not far from its predecessor, the Belle Tout Lighthouse. It’s also a landmark in the area.

You can walk from The Beachy Head Story to the RAF Bomber Command Memorial, too. This six-ton tribute is a moving monument to World War II airmen.

If you want to do this as an overnight trip, it’s easiest to stay in Eastbourne. You can book a hotel in town here . You can book the one I stayed in here .

6. Seven Sisters, East Sussex

Right by Beachy Head, the Seven Sisters are another great place to visit in East Sussex. This series of chalk cliffs on the English Channel coast is one of the most recognizable sights in southern Britain.

The Seven Sisters are part of the South Downs National Park. The area is known for its views, beaches, and dramatic cliff faces that drop into the sea.

Seven Sisters Country Park is a highlight of visiting the Seven Sisters. There are lots of things to do here, from wildlife spotting to hiking, kayaking, cycling, and walking.

If you’re looking for views, the best one is from Seaford Head looking east across the River Cuckmere.

If you want to do this as an overnight trip, you can stay in Eastbourne or Seaford. You can book a hotel in Eastbourne here and you can book a hotel in Seaford here .

7. Birling Gap, East Sussex

Birling Gap is another of the best places to visit in East Sussex. A coastal hamlet tucked between Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters, this place is famous for its shoreline.

Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself at a National Trust information center with a shop selling snacks. There’s an ice cream truck outside in the warmer months, too. A tall staircase next to the shop leads down to the famous pebble beach.

There are also walks and rambles you can do from Birling Gap. You can hike to places like Lookout Hill, Exceat, and local pubs. You can even get to the South Downs Way if you want a longer walk.

8. Hastings, East Sussex

Hastings is one of my favorite places to visit in East Sussex. This coastal town on the English Channel is known for its Norman history, but its beaches are what draw the majority of people to its shores.

There are a lot of beaches to choose from, too. Rock-A-Nore Beach is known for having dramatic cliffs behind it. Hastings Beach features a wide apron of pebble shoreline. It’s also home to Hastings Pier, which has striped beach huts on it.

The Stade, a shingle beach, is backed by bright-hued fishing boats, nets, and stalls selling fresh fish and seafood.

The seaside in Hastings is full of carnival rides, historic net huts, and great restaurants. Behind them lies a maze of streets with heritage houses, shops, and a clifftop castle.

Taking a Hastings day trip is easy to do by rail from London. Along with Brighton, it’s one of the easiest seaside day trips from London by train.

If you want to do this as an overnight trip you can book a hotel in Hastings here . There are lots of great places to stay in town, from hotels to B&Bs and apartment rentals.

9. Battle, East Sussex

Not far from Hastings, Battle is another of the best places to visit in East Sussex. This town in the High Weald is famous for its abbey, but there are lots of things to do in Battle that make it worth a longer visit.

Battle is known for being the site of the Battle of Hastings in 1066. William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, defeated the English army of King Harold here.

His victory kicked off the Norman conquest of England, rendering the battle one of the most important in English history.

The fighting took place in a field in the present-day town of Battle. After his victory, William the Conqueror founded an important abbey on the site.

Impressive remnants of both the battle and the abbey remain, and they’re what draw most visitors to the town today.

In addition to walking the battlefield and seeing the abbey ruins, you can explore the high street and side streets and visit the Battle Museum of Local History.

Battle is an easy trip to combine with Hastings. They’re both on the same rail line from London, so you can do them as a day trip or weekend getaway if you want to.

If you want to make this an overnight trip you can book a hotel in Battle here or a hotel in Hastings here .

10. Lewes, East Sussex

Lewes is another of my favorite places to visit in East Sussex. This town near Brighton is home to beautiful streets, loads of history, and great shops.

The narrow cobbled lanes in Lewes are enough to excite the most world-weary photographer. Thanks to the hills in Lewes, many of them offer great views over the town and surrounding countryside.

The houses are impressive, too. Not only can you find a house that belonged to Virginia Woolf here, but also one that was owned by Anne of Cleves, Henry VIII’s fourth wife.

There’s a Norman castle in Lewes as well. Perched on top of a hill, the medieval fortress dominates the skyline and serves as a reminder of the town’s long history.

Add to that lots of cafes, restaurants, pubs, and gardens, and Lewes is worth a trip.

The town is around an hour from London by rail, and it’s one of the top day trips from London by train . That said, there are enough things to do in Lewes to merit an overnight trip.

If you want to do this as a two-day getaway you can book a hotel in Lewes here . There are lots of places to stay in town, including a Tudor coaching inn known for its connections to political philosopher Thomas Paine. He expounded his revolutionary politics inside.

11. The Long Man of Wilmington, East Sussex

Next on my list of places to go in East Sussex is The Long Man of Wilmington. This unusual sight is a figure outlined on the slopes of Windover Hill near Wilmington (hence the name). It’s one of the most unique East Sussex attractions.

The Long Man of Wilmington has befuddled archaeologists and historians for hundreds of years. The figure stands tall with a stave (stick) in each hand, but nobody knows why it was depicted or by whom.

The figure is thought to date from the 16th or 17th century, but its origins are unclear. Whatever they are, The Long Man of Wilmington is an intriguing sight to see on a trip to East Sussex.

At 235 feet (72 meters) high, it’s Europe’s largest representation of the human form. The figure can be seen from the road as you drive by, but you can also walk to it. It’s a great ramble along the white chalk cliffs to get here.

The Long Man of Wilmington is 6 miles from Eastbourne, so if you want to stay in the area, you can book a hotel in Eastbourne here .

12. Bodiam Castle, East Sussex

Bodiam Castle is another of the best places to visit in East Sussex. This 14th-century moated fortress is located near Robertsbridge. It was constructed in the 1380s by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge and his wife, Elizabeth.

Bodiam Castle is set in a historic landscape in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The castle has a ruined interior with spiral staircases, battlements, and a portcullis. It’s one of Britain’s most picturesque medieval fortresses.

Bodiam Castle is worth a visit if you love history and legends. There are grounds to discover, too. From the moat to the wildflower meadows, you can explore it all on a self-guided walking route.

If you want to stay overnight in the area, Battle isn’t far away. You can book a hotel in Battle here .

13. South Downs National Park, East Sussex

The South Downs National Park is another of the best places to visit in East Sussex. This vast area of English countryside spans 628 square miles (1,627 square kilometers) in southern England.

It stretches between Winchester and Eastbourne and runs through the counties of Hampshire, West Sussex, and East Sussex.

Highlights of the South Downs National Park in East Sussex include the white cliffs of the Seven Sisters, Birling Gap, Beachy Head, and towns like Lewes.

If you want to explore the South Downs, you can walk all or part of the South Downs Way. This long-distance walking path runs the width of the national park and will show you the highlights as you hike.

If you want to stay for a night or more, you can book a hotel in the South Downs here . There are lots of places to stay in and around the national park.

14. Pett Level Beach, East Sussex

Back to the seaside, Pett Level Beach is another of the best places to visit in East Sussex. This local beach lies just beyond the the cliffs at Fairlight Cove.

Located between Hastings and Camber Sands, it’s a fun place to walk on seashell-studded stones and take in views across the English Channel.

Along with Cliff End Beach, Pett Level Beach is known for the wooden posts that punctuate its shoreline. At low tide, you can even spot stumps of fossilized trees that date back to ancient times.

In addition to sunbathing, Pett beach is popular for bird watching. The shallow Pett Pools behind the beach are frequented by wetland fowl.

15. High Weald, East Sussex

Another of the best places to visit in East Sussex is the High Weald. One of Britain’s most beautiful landscapes, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty spans 564 square miles (1,461 square kilometers) of the English countryside in Sussex, Kent, and Surrey.

Highlights of the High Weald in East Sussex include towns like Battle, attractions like Bodiam Castle, and seaside gems like Pett Level Beach.

There are lots of country walks and hikes you can do in the High Weald, too. The High Weald Landscape Trail is a 90-mile (145-kilometer) route that runs between Horsham in West Sussex and Rye in East Sussex.

Designed to go through the main landscape types of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s a great way to see the local highlights.

If you want to stay for a night or more, you can book a hotel in the High Weald here . There are plenty of places to stay in and around the area.

Map of Places to Visit in East Sussex

Below is an interactive map of all the places I mentioned in this blog post. If you click on the blue pins, you can find my blog posts about each one. I hope it helps you plan your getaway!

I hope you’ve liked my list of places to visit in East Sussex, and that it’s helped you discover new travel destinations in southern England.

There are more places to explore, too. From St Leonards-on-Sea to Bexhill and Rudyard Kipling’s house, Bateman’s, the county has a lot to see.

If you have more time to travel, you can take a look at my blog posts about places to visit in Kent , Surrey , and West Sussex . These neighboring counties have additional exciting areas to explore. Happy travels!

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The 37 best things to do with your kids in East Sussex

Keeping the kids entertained throughout the year can often be a cumbersome task. So to help parents here is a list of the 37 best things to do with kids in Sussex.

By Khadija Taboada

Moderation and Editorial Products Producer - Editing community content for InYourArea.co.uk

Credit : Image by Ben Kerckx from Pixabay

Families can play, adventure and learn across this seaside county with plenty of activities to entertain throughout the year.

Families are lucky enough to live by the sea with the option of spending the day splashing about by the sea, but when the weather isn't on your side there is more fun things to do.

With both indoor and outdoor adventures waiting for kids the weather won't rain on your parade.

To help you out with the search, InYourArea.co.uk has created a detailed list of the best things to do with kids in East Sussex.

Think something is missing from this list? Feel free to comment below or send us your suggestions to [email protected]

Best outdoor activities for your kids in East Sussex

Brighton pier.

Credit : Image by Philip Barrington

Where : Madeira Drive, Brighton, East Sussex BN2 1TW

Prepare for a classic family day out full of sand, sea and an adventure filled pier!

There are plenty of rides and attractions that the family will love, from bumper cars to rollercoasters, spinning tea cups, trampolines, bouncy castles, a giant slide and a traditional carousel.

Families will be able to spend the day enjoying everything on offer along the pier, including the amusement arcades overflowing with games and action, both new and old.

Wrack up all your winning tickets and you can walk away with a whole host of prizes from the arcades.

Each ride or attraction is priced according to ticket tokens, bought from sale points. Those who want a full day of action can purchase a wristband online in advance.

Website : brightonpier.co.uk/

Smugglers Adventure and Hastings Castle

Where : St Clement’s Caves, Hastings, East Sussex TN34 3JJ

Come face to face with the incredible history of East Sussex at this family friendly castle and attraction in Hasting.

Straight off the bat, you'll be able to learn all about the epic 1066 Battle at Hastings Abbey, with breathtaking views and a bloody history, covering topics from the Conquest to the history of the castle through the centuries.

When your kids have lapped up all the information about the Battle of Hastings, head underground into the network of caves and tunnels that used to house the dangerous and dubious goings-on.

Smugglers and pirates are just the start, and you'll learn about it all as well as interact with realistic, life-sized smuggler characters waiting to meet you if you dare.

Admission is based on age, with tickets bought online given a discount from on the day tickets. The Smugglers Adventure and Hastings Castle entry are priced separately.

Website : smugglersadventure.co.uk/

Drusillas Park

Where : Alfriston Road, Alfriston, East Sussex BN26 5QS

Go Wild Get Wet and Go Safari at this incredible family experience with plenty of entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Spot the red pandas, sloths, meerkats, camels, otters, alpacas and snakes at this little farm, with a so much to offer.

When your kids aren't running wild through the zoo, they can spend some of that energy in one of the two outdoor playgrounds.

Complete with slides, climbing frames, swings and trampolines it's the perfect play for explorers who love a little bit of imaginative play.

The park also has a massive splash park perfect for warmer days, as well as a maze and two indoor play areas for families to enjoy.

There are a range of extra activities, including bouncy castle slides, rock climbing and dino-digs.

Admission is based on age with discounts given to visitors who book online in advance.

Website : drusillas.co.uk/

Knockhatch Adventure Park

Where : Hailsham Bypass, Hailsham, East Sussex BN27 3GD

This adventure park has everything you can think of, a petting farm, owl sanctuary, a boating lake and several indoor and outdoor play centres.

Families get ready for an experience your little ones won't forget, from monkeying around on jumping pillows, a maze, slides, swings and bumpy barrel rides.

There's even a water slide sure to get your heart beating and your competitive streak excited as your race against your friends and family!

Knockhatch hosts a range of shows and activities suitable for all ages, with animal encounters, rides and much much more.

Your little ones can even become keepers for a day, or get hands on with the meerkat experiences.

Admission is based on age, with peak and off peak prices - it is cheaper to buy tickets online in advance. Annual passes are also available to purchase.

Website : knockhatch.com/

Ashdown Llama Farm

Where : Wych Cross, Forest Row, East Sussex RH18 5JN

Introduce your family to the adorable animals a Ashdown Llama Farm, which despite the name is also home to reindeer, alpacas, goats, pigs, donkeys, horses, turkeys, geese and chicken!

There is plenty of open space for you and your children to enjoy, with interesting facts scattered around the farm waiting to be read.

Families can book in to walk a llama, enjoy the outdoor play area, bounce around on pop-up bouncy castles or explore seasonal events including Santa's Grotto.

Entry is based on age, with llama walks sold as separate packages, season passes are also available to purchase.

Website : llamapark.co.uk/

Blackberry Farm

Where : Blackberry Farm, Whitesmith, Lewes, East Sussex BN8 6JD

Kids looking to meet goats, llamas, rabbits and tortoises will feel right at home at Blackberry Farm with plenty to keep them entertained.

From handling sessions with rabbits and guinea pigs, of the chance to feed some of the larger animals on the farm, it's a fun interactive experience.

Open seven days a week, there is 18 acres to explore, with a huge outdoor play area and farm walk for your youngsters.

When the sun isn't shining, families can enjoy the indoor playbarn and sensory zone.

Children are invited to ride ponies and tractors as well as squeal their way down the drop slide.

Admission is based on age, with prices varying depending on what season you visit.

Website : blackberry-farm.co.uk/

Arena Pursuits

Where : Rosemary House, Rosemary Lane, Flimwell, Wadhurst, East Sussex TN5 7PT

Action packed, exciting and challenging tasks await families at Arena Pursuits.

Rev up the engines driving a 4x4 or quad bike for fast thrills across this open space in Wadhurst.

If driving experiences aren't what you and your family are looking for, there are plenty of other activities on offer full of excitement.

Kids and adults alike can challenge themselves to an assault course, or paintballing perfect for the adrenalin seekers in your family.

Clay pigeon shooting and orienteering are also options!

Whatever the occasion, you can expect plenty of outdoor fun, with guests able to visit on specific junior events or family days.

Admission is based on which activity you choose, with booking in advance required.

Website : arenapursuits.com/

The Pells Outdoor Swimming Pool

Where : Brook Street, Lewes, East Sussex BN7 2BA

Splash the hours away with your family at this outdoor pool in Lewes, with plenty of space to swim around and play water polo.

The pool isn't heated, so on a hot day it's the perfect relief for kids looking to dive head first into some cool refreshing water.

Go back and forth doing laps or playing about with mum, dad, siblings or friends.

Admission is charged per session, with prices split depending on age, children under the age of two.

Website : pellspool.org.uk/welcome

Lewes Castle

Where : Bull House, High Street, Lewes, East Sussex BN7 1XH

Take a walk back in time at this 1000 year old Norman Castle, sat on top of this hill with panoramic views of East Sussex.

As well as being an incredible site to behold, the castle is a learning experience for budding historians.

Inside the archaeological site there is a ranging collection from the Stone Age to medieval times!

There are a range of events hosted throughout the year that children are able to enjoy.

Admission is based on age, family tickets are also available to buy.

Website : sussexpast.co.uk/lewes-castle

The Brighton Treasure Trail

Where : Brighton Pier, Brighton The City of Brighton and Hove, East Sussex BN2 1TW

Wander through the streets and discover hidden treasure along this one and two mile route through Brighton.

Trails can be done at your own pace with children as young as six able to participate, it's the perfect way to explore the seaside!

The mission is simple, discover the clues dotted around the circular route - so make sure you keep your eyes open and your detective skills sharp!

The booklets are a set price, with one booklet enough for four to five people.

Website : treasuretrails.co.uk/sussex/brighton

The Aldingbourne Country Centre

Where : Aldingbourne Country Centre, Blackmill Lane, Chichester PO18 0JP

Take a trip with your family to this Country Centre with so much to do throughout the year - from visiting farm animals to woodland walks.

Aldingbourne is the perfect location for a day out in nature, with a range of plants, gardens and woodlands to explore as well as a maze.

The family friendly attraction has fun outdoor play areas for children to monkey around on, with a water play area on those warm summer days.

When they aren't enjoying the climbing frames on the woodland walk, kids can meet adorable farm animals including goats, a pony, donkeys, alpacas, turkeys, guinea pigs, donkeys, chickens, pigs and ducks!

A range of events are hosted throughout the year with children in mind, so prepare yourself for reptile day or pre-school focused craft sessions.

Admission is based on whether guests visit in high or low season, with annual passes also available for regulars.

Website : aldingbournetrust.org

Knockhatch Ski and Snowboard Centre

Take on 110 metres of artificial ski slopes, where speed and fun are on the agenda whatever activity you choose.

Families can choose to ski or snowboard, speed down the slopes on an inflatable ring.

With lessons available for beginners or the ability to speed down the slope which measures 360 feet with a vertical drop of 100 feet!

Heart racing thrills await with plenty of open practices for the whole family to get involved.

Admission is based on age, with private lessons also available.

Website : knockhatchskicentre.co.uk/

Treasure Island Adventure Park

Where : Royal Parade, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN22 7AE

Ahoy! Get ready for a pirate themed adventure your children will fall overboard for.

Here families can try their luck at getting a hole in one along the 18-hole miniature golf course, but beware the caves, bridges and of course the alligators.

When the game is over, doesn't mean the fun is with a swashbuckling adventure guaranteed for young explorers in the outdoor play park.

Climb aboard the wreckage complete with slides, bridges, netted walkways and a zip line, look for treasure in the sandy beach or enjoy a splash in paddling lagoon, there's plenty to keep the family entertained.

During the colder, wet weather, children can head indoors for a soft play adventure which as you can imagine is perfectly pirate themed for young buccaneers!

Admission is based on age, with prices separated for the indoor and outdoor play areas as well as peak and off peak timings, golfing is priced per game - with members receiving a discount across the board.

Website : treasure-island.co.uk/

Buzz Adventures

Where : Hunger Wood, Crowborough Warren Estate, Crowborough, East Sussex TN6 1TX

Get ready for an adventures that gives you the ultimate adrenalin rush combined with that warm fuzzy feeling of achieving something you didn't think was possible.

This attraction offers a Hunger Games Survival camp run by experts in the field, and themed on the popular movie franchise.

Families will be tasked with finding the right camouflage to hide from enemies, build shelters to protect you from the elements and learning self defence and martial arts to ensure you make it out of the games alive.

Will you volunteer as tribute for this exhilarating experience?

The experience is suitable for children over the age of 10.

Price is based on which package you select with overnight stay adventures available.

Website : http://buzzadventures.co.uk/hunger-games-camp

Newhaven Fort

Where : Fort Road, Newhaven BN9 9DS

Cloaked in mystery and protected by its impressive ramparts, Newhaven Fort has been keeping secrets safely hidden for almost 150 years.

Venture inside this extraordinary structure to discover its fascinating and surprising past and help to celebrate and forge its exciting future.

There are hidden passages your family can discover, you may even run into a ghost or two!

The historical venue hosts a range of events throughout the year, including reenactments, open air cinema screenings and deep dives into history.

Admission is based on age, with gift aid options available. Annual passes are also available to purchase.

Website : newhavenfort.org.uk/

Bodiam Castle

Where : Bodiam, Robertsbridge, East Sussex TN32 5UA

Travel back in time to this 14th-century moated castle built in 1385, the location is overflowing with history!

The medieval spot, has plenty to explore with kids able to try their hand at archery or practice some medieval skills.

Bodiam Castle was the defence port for defending against the French invasion during the Hundred Years' War.

Climb the spiral staircase of the tower and be rewarded with the most incredible views across the River Rother valley towards Ewhurst Green and east towards Newenden.

Pack a picnic and make the day out of it.

Admission is based on age, with gift aid and non-gift aid prices.

Website : nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiam-castle

East Sussex Railways

Where : Lottbridge Drove, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN23 6QJ and Isfield Station, Isfield, East Sussex TN22 5XB

There are two fun railway adventures awaiting families in East Sussex, both with their own unique attraction.

At Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway families will be able explore the country park that has a five acre lake right in the middle.

It offers a maze, plenty of garden space and of course the opportunity for children to go full steam ahead learning about locomotives, and seeing miniature versions up close.

On the other hand The Lavender Line is a preserved railway that takes a two mile round trip between the village of Isfield and Worth Halt located in the Parish of Little Horsted.

Both options hosts a range of specialist events and involved a range of interactivity making it the perfect place for kids.

Each is priced according to which site you visit, event days will be priced differently to regular entry fees or train rides.

Websites : Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway / The Lavender Line

East Hill Lift Upper Station

Where : East Hill, Rock-A-Nore Road, Hastings, East Sussex TN34 3EG

Take your little ones to visit the steepest funicular railway in the UK, with riders treated to an incredible view when they reach the top.

This charming structure is well known among the community with families often taking trips to watch the 'railway' in action, or enjoy the excitement from inside a carriage.

History has seen the lift become a vital part of daily life, and has even seen it derailed, but safety has been perfected and the attraction more for entertainment than functionality.

The lift provides views over the Stade, a shingle beach in Hastings Old Town, which also happens to be home to the largest beach launched fishing fleet in Europe.

Those taking a ride to the top and back down pay per ride depending on age, with weekly tickets also available to purchase.

Website : visit1066country.com/cliff-railways-east-hill-p1424931

Michelham Priory and Gardens

Where : Michelham Priory, Upper Dicker, Hailsham, East Sussex BN27 3QS

Explore 800 years of Priory history here at Michelham, home to England's longest medieval water filled moat.

The moat surrounds the site which dates back to 1229, with seven acres of grounds to explore.

Families can also find history and refuge from the rain on those colder, wet days in the Tudor mansion which has an interactive Victorian kitchen, WWII evacuee room and more.

When kids are being interactive with the wealth on offer at the museum and across the grounds they can enjoy the play area, dress up and take on trails.

It's the perfect family day out with regular events hosted throughout the year.

Admission is based on age with gift aid and non-gift aid prices available.

Website : sussexpast.co.uk/michelham-priory

Hastings Adventure Golf

Where : Pelham Place, Hastings, East Sussex TN34 3AJ

Is your family brave enough to take on the spiting tikis, dodge the flying cannon balls or negotiate the iconic windmill at this outdoor adventure golf course?

With plenty of obstacles, bridges and water features across the three amazing courses all made up of 18 holes.

Families can choose between Crazy Golf, Adventure Golf or Pirate Golf, all themed and all fun.

Prices varies depending on how many course you choose to do, with children under the age of five paying a reduced price.

Website : hastingsadventuregolf.com/

Best indoor activities for your kids in East Sussex

Sky high trampoline park.

Where : Meridian Way, Peacehaven, East Sussex BN10 8JQ

Leap as high as you can at this indoor trampoline centre, filled wall to wall with bouncing fun.

Heart racing thrills are expected as you try your hardest to bounce, flip and jump straight into a super sized air bag.

The family friendly attraction also has a 'Walk the Wall' challenge, encouraging kids to stand on the edge of the wall, drop backwards onto the trampoline and try to walk all the way back up to the top again… and again… and again.

Sky High also has a basketball slam dunk area and aero ball zone for adventurous families.

Price is based on which session you attend, with specialised toddler bounce sessions.

Fancy another trampolining adventure, why not head to Urban Jump in Heathfield , East Sussex spread out over 25000 square feet it's not to be missed.

Website : skyhightrampolinepark.co.uk/

LaserZone Brighton

Where : West Street, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 2RA

Get your laser guns out at the ready and make your way through a galactic labyrinth of swirling smoke, strange sounds, flashing lights and enemies.

Families can make their way through a multi-level arena, equipped with state of the art laser packs and phasers.

Kids as young as six can get involved in the action, with autism friendly sessions as well as parties available to book.

This is the ultimate adrenalin rush for the whole family.

Admission is based on peak and off peak prices, with entry broken down depending on age.

Website : laserzone.co.uk/brighton/

TeamSport Indoor Karting

Where : Chartwell Road Lancing Business Park, Brighton, East Sussex BN15 8TU

Get ready, get set, GO for an adrenaline fueled, fast paced thrill!

There is 450 metres of track, allowing you put the pedal on blast and whizz around at 40mph.

Participation for children and adults is the same, with prices ranging based on the length of time spent on the track.

The minimum age for this activity is eight.

Website : team-sport.co.uk/brighton/

Extreme Ventures

Where : Wilson Avenue, Brighton, East Sussex BN2 5PB

Beginners and climbing professionals can enjoy a session of extreme climbing at this indoor centre in Brighton.

Families looking for an adrenalin thrill will find 14 roped climbs providing up to 40 different routes of graded climbs!

There is also 20 different circuits all six meters high and a dedicated featured climbing wall and slab - with abseiling options available.

Prices range depending on which package is selected, with family clubs and kids special available.

Website : extremeventures.co.uk/indoor-climbing/

Sea Life Centre

Where : Marine Parade, Brighton, East Sussex BN2 1TB

Immerse yourself in an underwater world you won't want to miss, with sharks, turtles, jellyfish, octupus and so much more.

Families can discover a range of underwater creatures, with a plenty of talks and feeds throughout the day to keep them entertained.

Kids can get a new pespective of the water with a walk through tunnel with sharks above you and a Glass Bottom Boat, which does come at an extra charge.

Admission is based on age, with tickets booked online in advance given a discount. Annual passes are also available to purchase.

Want another underwater adventure, head to Blue Reef Aquarium in Hastings, East Sussex. As well as the creatures of the sea, kids will be able to see snakes, frogs and bearded dragons.

Website : visitsealife.com/brighton/

Where : Mermaid Walk, The Waterfront, Brighton, East Sussex BN2 5WA

Do you have what it takes to put a hole in one at this adventure golf course with two fun themes for kids.

Come face to face with glow in the dark obstacles including dinosaurs, tigers, gingerbread men and gorillas.

The family attraction has specialist Halloween, Christmas and Easter themed course experiences.

Families will be able to pick between Jurrasic Golf or Tropicana Golf, both offering plenty of fun for your youngsters.

Admission is charged per person with children under the age of two allowed in free of charge. Bookings can be made in advance but walk ins space depending.

Website : globalls.co.uk/

Monkey Bizness Indoor Play Centre

Where : Cliff industrial Estate, Lewes, East Sussex BN8 6JL

A funtastic play centre for the children, this venue has multi-levels of adventure including slides and ball pits.

Children will be able to explore and adventure in the soft play centre or play football on the mini pitch, or have plenty of fun trying to overcome the obstacles in the climbing frame.

Prices are based on age, with different peak and off peak prices.

Fancy more indoor soft play adventures you can head to Bexhill Leisure Centre in Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex or Funplex in Brighton.

Website : monkey-bizness.co.uk/lewes

Hailsham Leisure Centre

Where : Vicarage Lane, Hailsham, East Sussex BN27 2AX

Head to the pool with your family throughout the year with plenty of space for laps, splashing and fun water games.

Whatever the weather it's the perfect place to enjoy a few hours swimming like a fish or splashing around trying to figure out how to float.

Swimming lessons are available with specific family sessions for groups that want some of their own swim time.

The 25 metre pool is the perfect activity for families throughout the year, with a flume and inflatable also available.

Admission is based on age with memberships available.

Want to find another location for swimming, head to King Alfred Leisure Centre in Hove, East Sussex for the largest wet and dry sport centre.

Website : freedom-leisure.co.uk/hailsham-leisure-centre/

Royal Pavilion

Where : Pavilion Buildings, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1EE

Explore this incredible building which started as a modest 18th century lodging house before becoming the opulent space it is today.

With influences from Indian architects, families can explore the Royal Rooms, Banqueting Room, Great Kitchen and the Music Room among others.

The tour will take you around the Royal Pavilion, with stories of servants, and a gallery from the Indian Military Hospital.

Kids can try and discover the Prince's Treasure or wander around the gardens with a range of wildlife and flowers.

Admission is based on age, with family tickets also available to purchase.

Website : brightonmuseums.org.uk/royalpavilion/

Rye Castle Museum

Where : East Street, Rye, East Sussex TN31 7JY

This location is a hidden nugget in East Sussex, only open from April to October, and only on the weekends families have a limited time to visit.

Kids will be abe to discover a range of pottery made in and around Rye from across the ages.

History fans will be discover model ships, old coins and other historical artifacts all in one spot.

Admission to the museum is free, but donations are welcome.

Website : ryemuseum.co.uk/east-street/

Brighton Toy and Model Museum

Where : Trafalgar Street, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 4EB

Wander through this densely packed museum full wall to wall with more than 10,000 items of toys, models and more.

Kids will be able to enjoy the central attraction a 1930s gauge 0 model railway layout - with incredible detail signalling, lights, trackside buildings and accessories of modern tinplate locos and some post-war Exley carriages.

Discover motorbikes, slot machines, model towns, vintage Lego sets and toys spread across sixty different display areas.

Admission is based on age with group tickets also available to purchase.

Website : brightontoymuseum.co.uk/

ImmotionVR Brighton

Where : Russell Place Churchill Square Shopping Centre, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 2RG

Immerse yourself in this revolutionary new virtual reality experience with a range of games, experiences and activities to enjoy.

From race car driving, swimming with humpback whales, riding ghost trains and warfare games - you can truly be anyone or do anything at this centre.

The experience brings together world-class CGI, telling an amazing story using motion platform technology that's out of this world.

The minimum age for getting involved is eight.

Admission is based on which experience you choose, with options split from five minutes to 60 minute sessions.

Website : immotionvr.com/

Booth Museum of Natural History

Where : Dyke Road, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 5AA

Get ready to learn all about birds, butterflies, fossils, and bones at the Booth museum in Brighton.

This spot which initially started as a Victorian collector's private museum, is now a public treasure loved by people across the town.

Families will be able to discover the A to Z of the natural world, from Ants to Zebras, Azaleas to Zooplankton - you'll be able to learn about it all.

Children can get interactive with trails, learning and having fun at the same time.

Entrance to the museum is free.

Website : brightonmuseums.org.uk/booth/

Museum And Art Gallery

Where : Pavilion Parade, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1EE and New Church Road, Hove, East Sussex BN3 4AB

Two incredible museums offering a range of local history, art, fine art, toys and stories of the past.

With plenty of craft workshops and activities for children, this is more than just a learning experience but an interactive one as well.

Both Hove and Brighton museum offer something different for a range of ages, education through fun trails and exhibits.

Admission is charge to non-residents, however, members and local residents are allowed in free of charge.

Website : Brighton Museum and Hove Museum

The True CRIME Museum

Where : Palace Court, White Rock, Hastings, East Sussex TN34 1JP

Take a dark walk through the gritty history of crime from serial killers, to gangsters, prisoners and so much more twisted stories.

It isn't for the faint of heart, with the museum delving into the darkest stories you won't believe your eyes.

Discover a genuine lethal injection bed, learn all about the Hastings ripper suspect and drug lords that have lived a life of crime.

Kids will be able to get interactive with a forensics lab, learning how police, investigators and scientist are able to bring the criminals to justice.

This isn't a jump scare attraction, but children under the age of 13 are required to visit with a parent.

Admission is based on age, with family tickets available to purchase.

Website : truecrimemuseum.co.uk/

Bexhill Museum

Where : Egerton Road, Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex TN39 3HL

Budding historians can soak in the incredible history of the area, from local history and archaeology to fashion and Bexhill's motor heritage.

There is a range of exhibitions, from Victorian outfits, to 1950s motor racer cars.

Exhibits may change, but the excitement, access to history and interactivity is always the same.

There's a range of activities for children waiting in the 'Kidzone' with craft sessions, and fun waiting.

Admission is based on age, with under fives allowed in free of charge.

Website : bexhillmuseum.co.uk/

Hollywood Bowl Brighton

Where : Marina Way, Brighton, East Sussex BN2 5UT

Aim for a strike at this family friendly venue right by the sea, with plenty of bowling lanes to test your skills on.

Families can choose to use bowling aids, keep the sides up or stay on the straight and narrow and give it a go without any help at all racking up the points with every bowling pin.

As well as kids being able to enjoy a fun game of bowling, they can also make the most out of the arcade games - play for prizes or play for fun, it's all possible at Hollywood Bowl.

Games are priced depending on age, with a variety of deals and multiple game discounts. The arcades games are priced differently.

Website : hollywoodbowl.co.uk/brighton

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15 exciting things to do in Sussex when it won't stop raining

From a house of illusions and an indoor assault course to bottomless brunch and afternoon tea - there's no reason to be bored

• 10:30, 19 JUN 2021

It feels as though summer is ending before it even begins, with temperatures in Sussex set to plummet next week.

The 30C heatwave came to an abrupt end as heavy rain and thunderstorms hit parts of the county in recent days.

While summer definitely isn’t over for good this year, unfortunately there’s more bleak weather to come.

Read more: 27 pictures which show why Sussex is the worst place in the UK

We’ve stayed inside our homes enough this year and so the wintry conditions shouldn’t be enough to deter us from venturing out.

Join SussexLive and sign up to our newsletter

If you want to stay in the know with all the latest news, reviews and features from SussexLive then you can sign up to our daily newsletter email.

Each day we'll be sending you a selection of our top stories from across our county, as well as breaking news so you can be the first to know.

Signing up to the SussexLive newsletter means you'll get the latest news direct to your inbox each day. It couldn't be simpler and it takes seconds - simply click here OR here , enter your email address and follow the instructions.

With temperatures remaining in the mid teens, the wet weather shouldn’t put a dampener on any plans - as long as you’re able to find shelter.

Fortunately, there are plenty of options in Sussex for all ages looking to make the most of a rainy day.

Here are 15 ideas for spending a day out in Sussex with family or friends on a rainy day.

1. U rban Jump trampoline park

Urban Jump is the perfect option for friends and families wanting an active day out while remaining indoors.

The trampoline arena has foam pits, climbing walls, basketball hoops, a full size dodge ball court and interactive challenges, among lots of other fun.

2. Globalls

Globalls at Brighton Marina takes crazy golf up a notch with unique themed glow-in-the-dark courses.

There are two 12-hole mini golf courses, one dinosaur themed and the other ocean themed, which are both indoors.

The experience is suitable for all ages - with an added bonus of a UV cocktail bar for the adults.

3. Smugglers' Adventure

Deep in the heart of Hastings ’ West Hill lies the Smugglers Adventure, acres of caverns where the history of smuggling is waiting to be discovered.

Life-size characters, interactive displays, eerie lighting and sound effects allow visitors to step back in time to the famous battle of 1066.

4. Afternoon tea at Amberley Castle

Afternoon tea at Amberley Castle in Arundel is a real treat, with a selection of finger sandwiches, delicious homemade cakes and warm scones.

While visiting the historical treasure, wander the castle battlements and take a tranquil walk around the beautiful landscaped gardens in between the showers.

Just moments away is Amberley Museum, with a short drive taking you to the magnificent Arundel Castle.

5. Paradox Place

Paradox Place, Brighton's brand new house of illusions, boasts a whole collection of mind-bending optical illusions.

The experience is fun for all ages, with plenty of fun photo opportunities throughout the four floors of exhibits.

Most groups spend around one hour in the venue but there is no time limit.

6. Bateman's house

The home and garden of Rudyard Kipling, author of the Jungle Book, is nestled amongst the beautiful countryside of Burwash in East Sussex.

The rooms inside the 17th-century house remain much as Kipling left them, with oriental rugs and artefacts reflecting his strong association with the East.

The house is complete with a gift shop, cafe, and a natural play area for the children.

If you are lucky with the weather, there is a 12-acre garden in the centre of the estate. There are also a number of different walking routes around the 300 acre estate.

7. Ninja Warrior

The indoor adventure park opened at The Beacon shopping centre in Eastbourne last year.

The assault course, inspired by the hit ITV game show Ninja Warrior UK, is suitable for all ages.

8. Shelter Hall food market

Shelter Hall is an incredible food market on Brighton seafront, featuring seven unique and independent kitchens led by Sussex chefs.

It is the perfect opportunity to discover new food and drink options among the endless variety that the city has to offer.

The popular food market has a buzzing atmosphere, with a weekly line-up of live music.

Both indoor and outdoor dining is available and dogs are welcome on the terrace and ground floor,.

9. Butlin's

Bognor Regis

Treat the family with day passes to Butlin's, which include unlimited fairground, live daytime shows in the indoor Skyline Pavilion, a range of daytime activities, access to the soft play and outdoor play areas and entry to the pool.

10. Chichester Festival Theatre

Chichester Festival Theatre is one of the country’s most loved and lively theatres, internationally renowned for its productions.

Shows include plays, musicals, dance performances and much more.

Other popular theatres worth visiting in Sussex include Royal Hippodrome Theatre in Eastbourne, Connaught Theatre & Cinema in Worthing , The Capitol in Horsham and Theatre Royal in Brighton .

11. Tulley's Escape Rooms

An escape room is a fun way to challenge your ability as a family or team of friends to crack codes, follow clues and solve puzzles.

There are themed rooms for all abilities, the easiest scenario being Mutiny (ideal for beginners and families) and the most challenging being Nethercrott Manor.

Extend your stay by enjoying the bar and lounge.

12. Bottomless brunch

Drinking the day away is certainly one way to make the most of a rainy day.

Brighton leads the way when it comes to bottomless brunch spots, with a huge variety of delicious cafes and restaurants offering the service.

Starfish & Coffee, Red Roaster, Six, North Laine Brewhouse and The Tempest are among the popular options.

It is worth noting that some venues only hold bottomless brunches on weekends.

Of course, brunch without the booze is an option for those who don't fancy the hangover and are looking for a more chilled day.

13. The Observatory Science Centre

Herstmonceux

The Observatory Science Centre is a hands-on science centre with over 100 exhibits among the domes and telescopes of the leading astronomical observatory.

The science centre has been around for over 25 years and remains a popular choice for an educational family day trip.

14. Shopping in Brighton

Churchill Square Shopping Centre is one of the best shopping destinations in Sussex, with over 80 shops, restaurants and cafes all under one roof.

If you are driving, Churchill Square Car Park will ensure you avoid the rain entirely. For those taking public transport, the bus lane is directly outside and the train station is only a 10 minute walk away.

15. Towner art gallery

The Towner Art Gallery, one of the South East's leading art galleries, has been exhibiting contemporary art for nearly 100 years.

An added bonus is the cafe on the top floor, which has indoor and outdoor seating.

The gallery holds various talks and events throughout the year, so it's worth checking if any are scheduled for when you plan to visit.

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The Best Places to Visit in Sussex

Now divided into West Sussex and East Sussex, the historic county of Sussex is rich in heritage, culture, stunning views, great houses, fascinating towns, vast landscapes and wonderful places to explore. In fact, you could spend a lifetime here and probably not discover it all. But if you visit all or indeed most of our best places to visit in Sussex, you’ll start to get an idea of what an incredible county Sussex really is!

The South Downs 

There is perhaps no more iconic landmark in Sussex than the South Downs , a chalky ridge of hills and escarpments that cover 670 km square. Running from Eastbourne in East Sussex, right through West Sussex and on to Winchester in Hampshire, they are the place of many legends and stories and have played their part in the life of Neolithic man, the Romans, the Norman Conquest, the defeat of the Spanish Armada, pirates, smugglers, World War II defences and more.

The South Downs Way is one of only 15 national trails in England and Wales. It’s 160 km long (100 miles) and runs through the South Downs. It was recently named “10 th  Most Beautiful Hiking Trail in the World” by outdoors specialist Zalando. Notable places en route are many and include Harting Down , Amberley, Bramber , Cissbury and Chanctonbury Ring s, Devil’s Dyke, the Jack and Jill windmills , Wilmington , the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head .

Above all else though, the South Downs and its many footpaths are breathtakingly beautiful and evocative, with incredible views north across the Weald and beyond, and south out to sea. Whilst some stretches may be busier than others, you’ll often find yourself alone, listening to the call of the wind, following in footsteps that date back thousands of years, and sheltering in the shade of trees that are bent double into the wind.

Sussex vineyards

Sussex is fast gaining a reputation for producing superb wine and you’ll find vineyards aplenty from east to west . That means you really cannot leave Sussex without visiting at least one, and in order to really do our wine justice, you should probably visit half a dozen. To be honest, it’s hard to cherry-pick the best of the bunch (excuse the pun) because they nearly all have something great to offer, but working our way from east to west, here are some suggestions:

• The Rathfinny Estate near Polegate and Eastbourne was established in 2010. Their three principal grape varieties are Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier as well as a small amount of Pinot Gris and they are known for their world-class sparkling wines. More importantly, they have a Tasting Room Restaurant and also offer vineyard picnics, summer tours and cellar visits.
• At the other end of the county, near Chichester, Tinwood Estate was established in 2006 and is another local producer fast gaining a reputation for producing outstanding sparkling wines. They also do harvest experiences and have a tasting room as well as luxury lodges within the estate if you want to stay.
• Finally, in more central Mid Sussex and right on the edge of Ashdown Forest, there is Bluebell Vineyard Estate where they are producing world-class still and sparkling wines and growing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier vines along with Seyval Blanc, Bacchus, Ortega, Chasselas and Merlot.

Why not have a look at our vineyard trail suggestions for more information: Central Sussex Wine Tour West Sussex Wine Tour

Sussex castles

If it’s castles you’re after, then you are in luck because Sussex is home to plenty! In East Sussex, you’ll find Rye Castle (Ypres Tower), Camber Castle , Hastings Castle, Bodiam Castle , Herstmonceux, Lewes Castle and Pevensey Castle . These range from Medieval to Elizabethan.

When you have finished exploring in East Sussex, head to West Sussex and discover Bramber Castle , Knepp Castle , Amberely Castle, Arundel Castle and Midhurst Castle.

Visiting the many castles is a great way to learn more about the history of Sussex and how it evolved.

Sussex National Trust properties 

There are a number of National Trust properties in Sussex and the National Trust also owns lots of country spaces.

Pack your National Trust card and make your way to Bodiam Castle near Robertsbridge, Lamb House in Rye, Bateman’s in Burwash and the Alfriston Clergy House. Then make time for Sheffield Park and Gardens , Monk’s House in Rodmell all of which are in East Sussex. Birling Gap, Ditchling Beacon and Saddlescombe Farm are all also National Trust sites.

Then move West and explore Standen , Nyman’s , Petworth House , Woolbedding and Uppark and enjoy a walk at Slindon Estat e and Cissbury Ring. 

Sussex follies

Looking for something a little quirky? Look no further because there are plenty of follies to discover in Sussex. In East Sussex, the most famous follies are the famous “Mad Jack” follies which include the Sugar Loaf, the Pyramid and Tower, the Observatory and the Needle. In West Sussex, you’ll find Nore Folly at Slindon, Hiorne Tower at Arundel, the very haunted Racton Monument and the enigmatic Vandalian Tower.

Sussex beaches

Who doesn’t love a day at the seaside and Sussex has 225 km of coast. By the end of 2024, the King Charles III Coastal Path should be complete which means for keen walkers you will be able to walk the full length of the county along the coast.

But for beachgoers, there are 50 Sussex beaches (27 beaches in West Sussex and 23 in East Sussex) to choose from many of which are made up of a mixture of pebble, shingle and sand. In 2023,  Sussex had three award-winning Blue Flag beaches namely Hove Lawns, Marina St Leonards, and West Wittering as well as award-winning beaches at Bognor Regis, Littlehampton, Worthing, Saltdean, Brighton and Pelham Beach in Hastings .

Sussex cities

Sussex has just two cities and they are very different. In West Sussex, you’ll find the cathedral city of Chichester. Chichester has a long past and was a Roman and Anglo-Saxon settlement.  There are plenty of things to do in and around this historic city, and it’s also not far from Chichester Harbour with its inlets, nature reserves and coastal walks.

In East Sussex, the eclectic and cosmopolitan city of Brighton and Hove is a major attraction with its well-known pier, exotic Regency palace, aquarium, lively nightlife, North Lane district and beaches. Both cities are a great place for a mini break.

Sussex English Heritage sites

Sussex has a number of outstanding English Heritage Sites, perhaps the most famous of which is Battle Abbey and Battlefield. It’s the very place where the Normans defeated the Saxons at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. You can explore the battlefield with its selection of sculptures getting ready to fight, and then circuit the main buildings, explore some of the cellars and head to the Abbey rooms which include the magnificent dormitory.

Other worthy Sussex English Heritage sites include Boxgrove Priory near Chichester, Bramber Castle , Pevensey Castle and Camber Castle .

Historic Sussex towns

If you love nothing more than a good meander around a historic town then you are going to love Sussex because from west to east, historic towns will pepper your route. It’s difficult to list them all but the most popular include Midhurst , Petworth , Arundel , Horsham , East Grinstead , Lewes , Rye , Hastings Old Town , Bexhill , Uckfield and Battle.

Sussex ruins 

Sussex is home to some evocative ruins . The most famous perhaps have to be Cowdray Ruins (said to be haunted) – an Elizabethan mansion at Midhurst, Tide Mills , a ruined village near Newhaven, Lewes Priory , Bedham church (near Petworth), various ruins in Winchelsea and the evocative ruins at Nymans.  A number of the Sussex castles are also in ruins but still well worth exploring.

Sussex canals, harbours, ports and waterways 

Travelling by water is a pleasure in its own right and Sussex is blessed with a number of canals, waterways, ports and harbours. A boat trip on the Wey and Arun Canal is a delicious way to explore. In 1970 a group of volunteers set about restoring the canal and nowadays you can enjoy boat trips along a fabulously sleepy and picturesque section just south of Loxwood.

One of the most picturesque Sussex villages has to be Bosham in West Sussex just west of Chichester. It’s a photographer’s dream, wrapped as it is around a little harbour with the water at high tide washing the feet of the quayside houses.

For harbour life, in East Sussex, make your way to Rye Harbour or the Port of Newhaven and in West Sussex, discover Chichester and Pagham Harbours and Shoreham Port. Alternatively, head to Bodiam for boat hire and river cruises or to Barcombe Mills near Lewes for leisurely boating. And don’t forget the marinas at Brighton, Chichester, Eastbourne, Newhaven, Bordham Pool (Bognor), Shoreham and Littlehampton.

Sussex art galleries and museums 

Almost every Sussex town has its own museum and there are plenty of art galleries in the county. However, there are a few big guns that you shouldn’t miss. These include Hastings Contemporary, Towner Art Gallery (Eastbourne), the De La Warr Pavillion in Bexhill, Brighton and Hove Museum , Pallant House in Chichester, Charleston near Lewes, Petworth House , the Royal Pavilion in Brighton and Rye Art Gallery.

Sussex heritage railways

If you’re lucky, from various strategic points in mid-Sussex, you can occasionally hear the whistle and cheer of a steam train pulling its way along the historic Bluebell Railway … the oldest preserved, standard gauge railway in the country.

The Bluebell Railway is managed by the Bluebell Railway Preservation Society (all volunteers) and includes 11 miles of heritage railway line which runs right through the heart of the Sussex countryside. The trains include the classic Pullman from the 1920s and trains run between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead with stops at Horsted Keynes and Kingscote.

Kent & East Sussex Railway near Northiam is another heritage line which runs between Tenterden and Bodiam as is the Lavender Line, a heritage railway based at the restored Victorian station of Isfield near Lewes in East Sussex.

Luxury Sussex hotels and spas

If you want to visit Sussex for a little luxury and wellbeing, you will not be disappointed. Sussex is home to some prestigious and downright lovely hotels and spas and these include The Grand in Eastbourne and Ashdown Park Hotel , The Grand in Brighton, Alexander House near Turners Hill, Ockenden Manor in Cuckfield, Bailiffscourt at Climping, South Lodge at Horsham, Gravetye Manor near East Grinstead, Goodwood Hotel near Chichester and Amberley Castle.

Sussex gardens 

The fabulous Sussex climate and the county’s rich cultural past are just two of the reasons that Sussex is home to so many amazing gardens. If you want to see wallabies, and who doesn’t, then head to Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens just outside Horsham. The woodland gardens cover 240 acres and include valleys, lakes, a rock garden and of course, the wallabies! The grounds are also currently home to Anton Smit’s stunning sculpture exhibition entitled “ The Walk of Life ” and you’ll find his thought-provoking pieces throughout the grounds. Wakehurst near Haywards Heath is part of Kew and you might want to combine a visit there with a trip to Borde Hill , also near Haywards Heath and Nymans at Handcross.

But don’t stop there! Make your way to the stunning Sussex Prairie Gardens near Henfield and then on to Denmans Gardens near Bognor Regis. Parham House near Storrington is another must-visit Elizabeth garden and the Tulip Festival at Arundel is quite something! Then turn east, to Great Dixter near Rye and Pashley Manor Gardens near Ticehurst before heading back to Lewes and the gardens at Charleston.

Historic Sussex houses

It will come as no surprise that with such a long and varied past, that Sussex has some glorious historic houses to explore. The Elizabethan mansion Parham House dates back to the late 17 th century and has a stunning Great Hall and Parlour, along with lots of other rooms to explore. St Mary’s House in Bramber has the most extraordinary history that dates back to the Knights Templar! Great Dixter near Rye is another fascinating building with a curious past and Anne of Cleves House in Lewes … well it says what it does on the tin!

Firle Place near Lewes is Georgian and although it’s a private house, it is occasionally open to the public, as is Wiston near Steyning. And Charleston House near Lewes is all about the Bloomsbury Set!

Sussex piers

Piers are an iconic part of seaside culture and Sussex is blessed with five and a half. Bognor Regis, Worthing, Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings all have piers and Worthing Pier has won Pier of the Year twice! The half pier is Brigthon’s West Pier which is pretty much derelict now but great for some moody photos!

Sussex windmills

Sussex was once dotted with working windmills of all descriptions. There are still quite a few left some of which you can visit (and enter) and some of which are still working. You’ll find some of the best-known Sussex windmills include Jack and Jill at Clayton, Rottingdean, Challey, Mayfield, Shipley, High Salvington, Ashcombe, Nutley, Patcham, Polegate and Halnaker.

Sussex sculpture trails

Sussex has always been home to a diverse selection of creatives and the result is, that the county is blessed with sculpture trails of all descriptions. One of the county’s most renowned sculptors is Philip Jackson whose studio can be found in Cocking near Midhurst. In the summer, his garden opens to the public to reveal his utterly unique sculptures. Leonardslee near Horsham is another big gun when it comes to sculpture and they have works by Anton Smit on display throughout the grounds all year. They also host the annual Surrey Sculpture Society trail every summer. For something totally different, head over to Pevensey and follow the 1066 Country Walk which is dotted with a sequence of wooden sculptures along its route. Or if you walk the Serpent Trail to the west, there are seven sculptures to discover along the way.

Nature reserves and parks

The good news is that there is lots and lots of open space in Sussex in the shape of nature reserves and parks, so you’re never far away from somewhere to enjoy the great outdoors. The Sussex Wildlife Trust manage about 28 reserves right across the county from Rye Harbour and Filsham Reedbed near Hastings to Iping and Stedham Commons and Leythorne Meadow near Chichester. But there are dozens if not hundreds more nature reserves as well many Sites of Special Scientific Interest and country parks such as Seven Sisters Country Park , Hastings Country Park, Stamner Park and Ashdown Forest.

Brighton i360

The Brighton i360 is a 162-metre tall moving observation tower right on Brighton seafront which opened in 2016. You can hop in the pod and as it climbs, views of Brighton, the sea, the South Downs and beyond are slowly revealed. You can also take part in lots of different experiences including yoga in the sky, gin tasting and even abseiling! And it’s become one of the county’s most iconic attractions.

Sussex zoos and petting farms 

Let us not forget the little ones! Drusillas near Polegate in East Sussex is a fantastic local zoo but there are also aquariums in Brighton, Hastings and Eastbourne. For farms and small animals, make your way to Fishers Farm near Billingshurst, Tilgate Park near Crawley, Knockhatch Adventure Park near Hailsham or Middle Farm near Lewes.

Sussex Roman palaces

The Romans left a big footprint in Sussex and you will never go far in the county without stumbling upon a reference to them. There are two notable Roman palaces that you can visit namely Fishbourne Roman Palace near Chichester and Bignor Roman Villa near Pulborough. You can also travel the Roman road of Stane Street and visit Pevensey Castle which belonged to the Romans long before the Normans arrived.

Thorney Island

Not quite an island because it is now joined to the mainland by a strip of land, this nature reserve is owned by the Ministry of Defence and is an unusual and slightly off the beaten track place for a visit. A walk around Thorney Island is about 12 km long but you have to stick to the path as well as pass through a security gate to get on to the island. Once there, there is little to do apart from admire the incredible wildlife and amazing views all around from Chichester Harbour to Hayling Island and, of course, out to sea.

As with so much of our Sussex countryside, it has an interesting history. It’s home to one of the oldest Saxon churches in Sussex whilst in 1933 a plane crash alerted the Ministry of Defence to its suitability as a strategic defence and the original islanders were moved off. In the 1970s, it was used as a refuge for the “Vietnamese Boat People”. But most of all, any visit to the island is a reminder as to what a wild and inhospitable place it must have been back in the mists of time when it was an island and people were trying to live and survive there.

Rampion Offshore Wind Farm

You may not automatically think of a wind farm as somewhere special to visit but Rampion is both environmentally important and pretty unique. As the south coast’s first wind farm, it has 116 turbines on a 70 km square site and is between 13 and 20 km off the Sussex coast. On a clear day, you can see it from the South Downs anywhere from Worthing to further east of Brighton – although too far away to get a good photo, and always slightly mysterious on the horizon. Generating power equivalent to that needed by about 350,000 homes, there is also an on-shore visitor centre.

But why stop at views from the shore and the visitor centre? You can now actually get out on the water and visit the farm itself with Sussex Boat Trips who will take you in amongst the turbines. Because the area is no longer fished, it is teeming with marine life and there is something simply awe-inspiring about looking up at the towering turbines as they do their slow and majestic dance.

Choosing the Best Places to visit in Sussex wasn’t easy. The truth is, we have hundreds of amazing places which are all worth a visit from the large and impressive to the small and intricate. So if your favourite place in Sussex isn’t on our list, please let us know and perhaps we’ll add it!

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What’s on in June

Posted by Saffron Phillips | May 21, 2024 | Kids & Families , Sport , Things to See & Do | 0 |

June is the first of the summer months, and what better time to get out and about! With festivals, hikes, tennis tournaments, performance art and more taking place across the county, there’s something for everyone as we head into summer.

Florence Peake: FACTUAL ACTUAL, Eastbourne, 1 and 2 June

Internationally renowned choreographer and visual artist Florence Peake presents a special weekend of live performances in Eastbourne .

FACTUAL ACTUAL presents seven large-scale paintings on unstretched canvases that hang over a gloss dance floor. The canvases will be animated by six dancers using a rig and pulley system to hoist, lower, collapse, fold and drag the paintings throughout the performances.

World Crazy Golf Championships, Hastings, 7 to 9 June

The World Crazy Golf Championships have been staged since 2003 at the Adventure Golf Complex on Hastings seafront.

The event is seen by many as the ‘flagship’ event in the Mini Golf calendar. It attracts players from across the UK and Europe who are all competing for the biggest prize fund in mini golf!

South Coast Mighty Hike, Brighton to Seven Sisters, 8 June

Hike a full or half marathon across the South Downs  and raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support as you walk!

Starting in Brighton, the route takes in the beautiful South Downs before reaching the iconic Seven Sisters. This is a challenging route, but you’ll be rewarded with stunning coastal views before a final climb up to Beachy Head.

Beginner’s Guide to Identifying Bumblebees Workshop, Burwash, 13 June

Are you a bumblebee enthusiast or just curious about these charismatic little creatures?  This event, held at Rudyard Kipling’s home Bateman’s, is perfect for beginners who want to learn how to identify bumblebees.

During this fun, hands-on day, you’ll learn to distinguish between various bumblebees and understand their vital role in our ecosystem.

Mini CrowFest, Crowborough, 13 June

This free one-day community event will bring together a range of local talent on Goldsmiths Recreation Ground from 1pm.

As well as live music there will be the usual Summer Fair activities including market stalls, food and drink outlets and entertainment.

Madagascar: The Musical, Congress Theatre, Eastbourne, 13 to 16 June

Out of the zoo and onto a stage near you!

Starring CBBC and Strictly Come Dancing star Karim Zeroual as King Julien, Madagascar The Musical sees everyone’s favourite animals on stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime.

South Downs Beer & Cider Festival, Lewes, 14 and 15 June

The 26th CAMRA South Downs Beer & Cider Festival is taking place at the Corn Exchange in Lewes.

Over 70 live beers together with a selection of real ciders, perries and specialty ciders (cider with additional fruit!) will be available to taste. Please note this is an over 18s event.

The Forest Row Festival, Forest Row, 14 to 16 June

An amazing array of music and entertainment will be on display on Forester’s Green over the weekend representing the cream of Forest Row talent.

A wide range of stalls will be selling items including clothing, jewellery, ceramics, and treatments. There will also be plenty of food and drink options offering a wide range of culinary delights!

Sussex Day, 16 June

Sussex Day is an annual celebration of all things Sussex! Local events are held across both East and West Sussex on or around June 16, which is the feast day St Richard of Chichester, Sussex’s patron saint.

Crowborough Family Day

A family day will be held on Chapel Green in Crowborough from 1pm to 4pm.

There will be fairground rides, a Punch and Judy show and Animal Puppets. Live entertainment includes Morris Dancers, So Dance Academy and activities from the Scouts and Girl Guides.

Newhaven Community Event

Sussex Day at the Bandstand is back !

This community event, on Saturday 15 June from 12.30pm to 5.30pm, showcases what Newhaven and the surrounding area has to offer, with live music, delicious food, artisan drinks, craft stalls and much more.

Camper Marmalade 2024, Polegate, 21 to 23 June

This local VW festival  is now in its fourth year, and promises live entertainment and great music in a chilled family environment.

This year’s family festival has camping, music, street food, Show ‘n’ Shine, Kids Zone, market traders and much more!

Rothesay International Tennis, Eastbourne, 22 to 29 June

Held since 1974, the Rothesay International Eastbourne  is a fantastic tournament for tennis fans! The tournament is a WTA 500 series event played on outdoor grass courts at Devonshire Park in Eastbourne.

It takes place the week before Wimbledon Championships, starting on June 22. This year Naomi Osaka and 2023 champion Madison Keys will be playing as well as British No.1, Katie Boulter.

RAF Friston – Spitfires and Spies (D-Day Commemoration), Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters, 30 June

Join National Trust guides on this walk to learn about the history of RAF Friston. Find out how the airfield grew from an emergency airstrip into a front-line fighter station during World War Two.

Starting from Crowlink car park, the walk will head to the site of the RAF memorial in the middle of what used to be RAF Friston. On the way you’ll hear about some of the brave men and women who were based here and flew the iconic Spitfires that still fly over this beautiful landscape today.

For more ideas of what to do locally and places to visit read our previous What’s on articles for April and May . And don’t forget to let us know your favourite things to do as we head into summer in the comments section below.

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Saffron Phillips

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