Best Places in Sussex

Best Places in Sussex

Sussex, a historic county on England’s southern 
coast, is a land defined by contrasts. It is a region where chalk cliffs meet rolling 
downs, where medieval castles stand beside vibrant seaside towns, and where artistic 
retreats coexist with ancient battlefields. Steeped in centuries of history yet alive with 
modern culture, Sussex offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that together create a portrait 
of one of Britain’s most remarkable counties. The county’s landscapes are its first great 
treasure. The South Downs National Park stretches like a green backbone across the region, its 
chalk hills giving way to hidden valleys, wildflower meadows, and sweeping views 
of the English Channel. Along the coast, the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head form some 
of the most dramatic sea cliffs in Europe, while tranquil beaches like West Wittering 
invite moments of calm. Inland, woodlands, gardens, and rivers weave together 
a patchwork of habitats that have   inspired artists and poets for generations.
History lies around every corner in Sussex. From the Roman mosaics at Fishbourne and Bignor, 
to the Norman strongholds of Arundel and Bodiam, to the battleground of 1066 at Battle, Sussex 
has been a stage for pivotal moments in English history. Villages like Alfriston and 
Amberley preserve medieval charm, while stately homes such as Petworth and Goodwood 
reflect centuries of aristocratic grandeur. Yet Sussex is not only about its past—it 
is equally about culture, creativity, and celebration. Brighton buzzes with 
cosmopolitan energy, while Glyndebourne and Charleston are world-renowned centers 
of music and art. Local traditions live on in rural festivals, crafts, and communities 
that keep the spirit of the county alive. To explore Sussex is to discover a place of 
diversity and depth, where every landscape tells a story and every town or village has a unique 
character. The following 30 places represent the very best of Sussex: its landscapes, its 
history, its creativity, and its enduring charm. Brighton is perhaps the most vibrant and 
cosmopolitan city on the south coast of   England. Known for its creative spirit, 
seaside charm, and inclusive culture, Brighton embodies a unique blend of history 
and modernity. Its seafront, with the iconic Palace Pier stretching into the Channel, offers 
amusements, arcades, and sea air that recall the golden age of the British seaside holiday.
The Royal Pavilion, built in the early 19th century for George IV, is Brighton’s most 
distinctive landmark. With its Indian-style domes and Chinese-inspired interiors, it reflects 
the extravagance of the Regency era. Just a short walk away, the Lanes—a maze of narrow streets—are 
filled with independent shops, antique stores, and cafés, making them a delight to explore.
Brighton is also a cultural capital. The Brighton Festival and Fringe attract 
international performers each spring,   while the city’s theatres, galleries, and live 
music venues ensure year-round entertainment. Its reputation as a progressive, welcoming 
community is reflected in its thriving scene and its reputation as the “London by the sea.”
What makes Brighton truly special is its ability to balance tradition with creativity. It is 
a city where history is respected but never allowed to stagnate, where seaside nostalgia sits 
comfortably beside cutting-edge art and nightlife. Once a humble fishing village, 
Worthing has grown into a vibrant   seaside town that combines Edwardian 
elegance with modern cultural energy. Its seafront promenade, lined with palm 
trees and dotted with art installations, offers panoramic views of the Channel. The wide 
pebble beaches are perfect for walks, and in summer they attract swimmers, paddleboarders, and 
families enjoying the classic British seaside. At its centre is the Worthing Pier, voted 
Britain’s best in recent years. Its art deco pavilion and modern amusements make it both 
nostalgic and contemporary. The town also boasts an impressive cultural scene, with the Connaught 
Theatre and Worthing Museum and Art Gallery providing spaces for drama, film, and exhibitions.
Worthing’s popularity has risen in recent years, particularly with younger families and 
creatives drawn to its affordable charm   and proximity to Brighton. Independent shops, 
vintage stores, and a growing café culture have transformed the town into a lively hub 
while retaining its relaxed seaside feel. What sets Worthing apart is its accessibility: 
it is large enough to offer variety, yet intimate enough to feel personal. Combined 
with the South Downs as its backdrop, Worthing represents the evolving face of Sussex’s 
coast—traditional, stylish, and welcoming. On the western edge of Sussex 
lies West Wittering Beach,   a broad expanse of golden sand that rivals any 
in southern England. Unlike the pebble beaches common to much of the Sussex coast, West 
Wittering offers fine sand, shallow waters, and wide dunes, making it a favorite 
for families, swimmers, and picnickers. The beach is backed by East Head, a pristine 
sand dune spit that forms part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Its habitats 
support rare plants and migratory birds, adding ecological significance to its natural 
beauty. At low tide, vast sand flats emerge, providing space for beachcombing and exploration.
West Wittering is also popular with water sports enthusiasts, from windsurfers to 
paddleboarders, while the views across   Chichester Harbour to Hayling Island and the 
Isle of Wight give it a special sense of place. What sets it apart is its combination 
of natural beauty, recreational appeal, and tranquility. It feels unspoiled, a rare jewel 
where the sea, sand, and sky merge in harmony. Set in 40 acres of the South Downs near 
Singleton, the Weald & Downland Living Museum is an open-air museum dedicated to rural 
history. It is a place where time slows down, allowing visitors to step directly into the past.
Over fifty historic buildings, painstakingly relocated from across southern England, 
recreate centuries of everyday life. From timber-framed medieval halls to Victorian 
cottages, each structure tells the story of those who lived and worked there.
The museum is alive with demonstrations: blacksmithing, milling, traditional cooking, 
and farming practices are regularly performed, bringing heritage to life. Seasonal 
events celebrate old customs and   festivals, while the museum’s natural 
surroundings provide a fitting backdrop. Known to many as the filming location for The 
Repair Shop, the museum blends authenticity with charm. It is not a static exhibition, but 
a living, breathing community of traditions, making it one of the most enriching 
cultural experiences in Sussex. This beach is famous for its long 
dune ridges that lead to miles   of soft golden sandy beaches. Camber 
has been the location for many films, especially when “desert shots” are required. 
If you are planning a day in the sand, it is worth checking the local tide tables, as 
the extensive shallows at low tide make for a very long walk before it is deep enough to swim.
With such a large open space, power kites are a popular pastime—a very colorful sight. It 
gets very crowded during the summer months. Nestled at the foot of the South Downs, 
Steyning is one of Sussex’s most picturesque small towns. With its timber-framed houses, 
flint cottages, and handsome Georgian frontages, the town centre feels like a step back in 
time. The High Street is particularly charming, lined with independent shops, cafés, and pubs that 
reflect the community’s strong local identity. Steyning has deep historical roots. It was 
once a Saxon settlement of great importance, closely tied to the medieval Abbey of Fécamp in 
Normandy. The Church of St Andrew and St Cuthman, founded in the 8th century, recalls this 
era, standing as one of Sussex’s oldest and most impressive parish churches.
Today, Steyning is equally known for its cultural life. It hosts the Steyning Festival, 
a lively celebration of arts, literature, and music that brings the community together 
every other year. For walkers and cyclists, the town is perfectly placed, with direct 
access to the South Downs Way offering scenic routes across rolling hills and river valleys.
What makes Steyning special is its balance: a place of living history that feels 
neither frozen nor overly modernised. It is welcoming, tranquil, and beautiful, 
embodying the best of small-town Sussex life. At the eastern edge of Sussex lies Seven 
Sisters Country Park, one of the finest places to experience the landscape of the South 
Downs. Encompassing 280 hectares of chalk cliffs, river valleys, and grassland, it 
is a haven for outdoor adventure.  The park includes the iconic Seven Sisters 
cliffs, but also the meandering Cuckmere River, whose oxbow lakes and floodplain create a unique 
landscape beloved by walkers, cyclists, and kayakers. Birdlife is abundant, and the changing 
seasons bring ever-shifting light and colour. Unlike some coastal areas, the park feels wild 
and expansive. Sheep graze on the Downs, seabirds wheel overhead, and the sea stretches endlessly 
to the horizon. It is a place where one feels the scale of nature and the freedom of open space.
Seven Sisters Country Park embodies the essence of Sussex: dramatic, unspoiled, and 
deeply restorative. It is a fitting finale to a journey through a county 
of remarkable beauty and heritage. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the 
Romney Marshes, Rye is one of England’s   best-preserved medieval towns. Once a member 
of the powerful Cinque Ports confederation, it was a strategic harbor, though the 
sea has long since retreated. Today, it enchants visitors with its cobbled streets, 
half-timbered houses, and centuries-old inns. The town’s most famous street, Mermaid Street, 
is lined with crooked medieval buildings, including the historic Mermaid Inn, a favorite 
haunt of smugglers in the 18th century. The Ypres Tower, dating to the 14th century, stands as 
a reminder of Rye’s defensive past. Meanwhile, the Parish Church of St. Mary’s dominates the 
skyline, its tower offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Rye is also known for its literary and artistic heritage. Writers such as Henry 
James and E. F. Benson once lived here, while contemporary galleries and festivals keep 
the town’s cultural spirit alive. The nearby Camber Sands—a vast stretch of golden 
beach—adds natural beauty to the area. What makes Rye so special is its timelessness. 
It feels like a living museum, where layers of history and character coexist 
harmoniously. To wander its streets is to step back through centuries while still feeling 
the vibrancy of a community that thrives today. Set in the heart of West Sussex, Petworth is a 
market town defined by its connection to art and aristocracy. At its center lies Petworth House, 
a grand 17th-century mansion now under the care of the National Trust. Inside, it houses one of 
the most important art collections in Britain, with works by Turner, Van Dyck, 
and Reynolds among its treasures.  The surrounding Petworth Park, 
landscaped by Capability Brown, is equally remarkable. Its rolling grasslands 
and ancient trees inspired J. M. W. Turner, who painted many scenes of the park. Deer still 
roam freely, adding to the pastoral atmosphere. The town itself is known for its 
antique shops and independent boutiques,   which attract collectors and browsers alike. 
Petworth’s Georgian architecture and winding streets add charm, while regular cultural 
events, such as the Petworth Festival, celebrate music and the arts.
Petworth is a place where art,   history, and landscape come together. 
It represents the grandeur of England’s country house tradition while remaining a 
welcoming, vibrant community. Its beauty is not only in its treasures but in the harmony 
between human creativity and the natural world. Nymans, near Haywards Heath, is one of the most 
romantic gardens in England. Created in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by the Messel 
family, it blends formal design with wild beauty. At its centre stands the atmospheric ruin of 
a Gothic-style house, partially destroyed by fire in 1947. The ruin adds a poignant charm, 
surrounded by lush gardens filled with rare plants, roses, herbaceous borders, and 
ornamental trees. Nymans is especially known for its rhododendrons, magnolias, and 
camellias, which bloom in dazzling displays. The garden is also experimental, reflecting the 
Messel family’s passion for plant collecting from around the world. Its layout combines structured 
spaces with open views across the High Weald, creating a balance of order and natural splendour.
Nymans is both tranquil and inspiring. It is a place of beauty shaped by vision and resilience, 
where gardens and history merge seamlessly. Set in the heart of the South Downs National 
Park, Midhurst is a market town with a rich tapestry of history and architecture. Its winding 
streets reveal medieval timber-framed houses, Tudor facades, Georgian brickwork, and 
Victorian detail, creating a visual story of England’s past in one compact town.
Midhurst is perhaps most famous for Cowdray Ruins, the remains of one of England’s great 
Tudor houses. Once visited by Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, it was devastated by fire in 
1793, but its romantic shell still dominates the town’s landscape. The surrounding Cowdray Estate 
remains a centre of activity, especially for polo, hosting international tournaments that bring 
glamour and excitement to the Sussex countryside. The town itself is full of independent shops, 
antiques dealers, and inviting tearooms. It is also a gateway for exploring the South 
Downs, with walks leading directly from the town into rolling hills, meadows, and woodlands.
Midhurst combines the grandeur of history with the intimacy of a small town. It is both refined 
and unpretentious, offering culture, heritage, and natural beauty in equal measure. For many, 
it represents the very heart of rural Sussex. Surrounded by England’s longest medieval 
water-filled moat, Michelham Priory near Hailsham is a rare survival of monastic life. 
Founded in 1229 as an Augustinian priory, much of it was destroyed during the Dissolution of the 
Monasteries under Henry VIII, but its Tudor house, medieval buildings, and peaceful gardens remain.
The priory tells stories of faith, power, and change across centuries. Its 
atmospheric great barn, working watermill, and restored rooms give a vivid sense of 
life in both monastic and later periods. The gardens are equally captivating, featuring 
orchards, herb beds, and riverside walks. Michelham Priory is also known for its legends: 
it is reputedly one of the most haunted sites in Sussex, with ghostly tales adding to 
its mystique. Yet beyond the stories, what endures is the sense of serenity 
created by its water, walls, and trees. It is a place where history 
and nature are inseparable,   inviting reflection and quiet exploration. Set among the rolling hills of the South 
Downs, Lewes is a town where history feels alive in every street. Its medieval layout, 
flint walls, and narrow lanes create a sense of continuity with the past. At the heart 
of the town stands Lewes Castle, built shortly after the Norman Conquest, which offers 
sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Lewes is also known for its role in English 
history. The Battle of Lewes in 1264 was a turning point in the struggle between monarchy 
and Parliament. Today, the Anne of Cleves House, gifted to Henry VIII’s fourth wife, preserves 
Tudor domestic life. The town’s many bookshops, antique stores, and markets contribute to its 
reputation as a place of character and curiosity. One of Lewes’s most famous traditions 
is the Bonfire Night celebrations,   the largest in the country. Each November, 
the streets fill with torchlit processions, effigies, and fireworks, commemorating both 
Guy Fawkes and local Protestant martyrs. Lewes is not merely a historical 
relic; it is a thriving cultural hub, with a strong sense of community and 
a distinctive independent spirit. It balances heritage with creativity, making 
it one of Sussex’s most memorable towns. Amid the East Sussex countryside stands 
Herstmonceux Castle, a magnificent red-brick fortress unlike any other in the county. Built 
in the 15th century, it is one of the earliest major brick buildings in England, marking a 
shift from stone to more modern materials. Its deep red walls and battlements reflected 
in a wide moat give it a fairy-tale appearance. Though the castle itself is now used as an 
international study centre and only partly accessible, the surrounding gardens and 
woodlands are open to the public and are   truly enchanting. From formal Elizabethan-style 
gardens to tranquil woodland trails, the estate offers a blend of history and natural beauty. 
The grounds also feature quirky sculptures, secret pathways, and picnic areas.
Herstmonceux is not only about history—it is also associated with science. For decades, 
it housed the Royal Greenwich Observatory, connecting Sussex with astronomy and global 
research. Today, that spirit lives on with the castle’s science centre nearby.
It is this mix of romance, innovation, and nature that makes Herstmonceux Castle 
one of Sussex’s most distinctive landmarks. Hastings, once one of England’s most important 
medieval ports, is a town of resilience and reinvention. Its historic Old Town is a charming 
maze of timber-framed houses, narrow passageways known as “twittens,” and quirky shops. Overlooking 
it all are the ruins of Hastings Castle, built by William the Conqueror after 1066.
The town’s seafront is equally distinctive. The Net Shops, tall black wooden sheds, 
are unique to Hastings and symbolize its long fishing heritage. The town still boasts the 
largest beach-launched fishing fleet in Europe, and fresh seafood is sold directly on the shore.
In recent years, Hastings has embraced culture and creativity. The Jerwood Gallery (now Hastings 
Contemporary) showcases modern British art, while annual events such as the Jack in 
the Green Festival and the Hastings Pirate   Day celebrate local folklore and eccentricity.
What sets Hastings apart is its dual character: part ancient town, part bohemian haven. It 
combines maritime tradition with a strong artistic identity, offering visitors a lively mix 
of history, culture, and seaside charm. The Goodwood Estate, near Chichester, is 
one of Sussex’s most dynamic landmarks, combining history, sport, and culture in one 
extraordinary setting. At its heart is Goodwood House, the grand seat of the Dukes of Richmond for 
over 300 years. The house itself is a treasure, filled with fine art, furniture, and 
a sense of aristocratic grandeur. Yet Goodwood is best known today 
for its world-class events.   The Goodwood Festival of Speed attracts 
car enthusiasts from around the globe, celebrating motor racing heritage with dazzling 
displays of vehicles old and new. The Goodwood Revival, meanwhile, is a unique retro 
celebration where visitors dress in   period fashion to relive the golden age of racing.
Goodwood also has a strong equestrian tradition. Its racecourse is one of the most beautiful in the 
world, perched on the Downs with sweeping views, while its golf course and flying school 
add to the variety of experiences. What makes Goodwood so special is its energy: 
a traditional estate that has reinvented itself as a centre of innovation, style, and joy. 
It reflects the enduring vitality of Sussex. Eastbourne, with its Victorian seafront, 
elegant pier, and wide promenade,   represents the classic English seaside resort. 
Its well-kept gardens, theatres, and galleries reflect the town’s cultural aspirations, 
while the annual Eastbourne International tennis tournament draws global attention.
Just beyond the town lies Beachy Head, the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain. 
Rising 162 meters above the English Channel, it offers breathtaking views along the coast, 
including the dramatic sweep of the Seven Sisters cliffs. The red-and-white striped Beachy Head 
Lighthouse at its base is an iconic landmark. The contrast between Eastbourne’s refined leisure 
and Beachy Head’s raw natural drama makes this area particularly special. It is a place where 
culture and landscape meet—where visitors can enjoy the charms of a seaside town one moment and 
the wild majesty of England’s coastline the next. At the foot of the South Downs lies Ditchling, a 
village with an unusually rich cultural legacy. While it charms with its flint cottages, village 
green, and surrounding countryside, it is most famous for the community of artists and craftsmen 
who settled here in the early 20th century. The Guild of St Joseph and St Dominic, founded 
by sculptor and typographer Eric Gill and others, turned Ditchling into a centre of the 
Arts and Crafts movement. Their belief   in combining artistry with craftsmanship 
left a lasting impact, and today the Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft celebrates 
their work with world-class exhibitions. Ditchling’s appeal is also geographical: the 
Ditchling Beacon nearby is one of the highest points on the South Downs, offering sweeping 
views across Sussex. The village itself remains tranquil, its history and creative spirit 
embedded in its cottages and workshops. It is this blend of natural beauty and artistic 
heritage that makes Ditchling remarkable, a quiet place that has nonetheless 
shaped British design and craft. On the outskirts of Brighton, the 
Devil’s Dyke is one of the most   iconic landmarks of the South Downs. This deep, 
steep-sided valley stretches nearly a mile, carved naturally into the chalk landscape. 
Its name comes from folklore: legend claims the devil dug the chasm to flood the churches 
of the Weald, but was thwarted when dawn broke. Today, Devil’s Dyke is celebrated for its 
panoramic views—stretching across Sussex to the sea and, on a clear day, as far as the Isle 
of Wight. The site is also a hub for outdoor activities: walkers follow the South Downs Way 
across its ridges, while paragliders launch into the open skies, taking advantage of the 
updrafts created by the valley’s unique shape. In the 19th century, Devil’s Dyke was a 
major tourist attraction, with a funfair, railway, and cable car. While these 
are gone, its natural grandeur remains, offering a striking reminder of the 
drama and scale of the South Downs. Chichester, the county’s only city, blends 
Roman foundations, medieval grandeur, and a lively cultural scene. Its defining feature 
is the Chichester Cathedral, begun in 1075. With its graceful spire, striking blend of Norman 
and Gothic architecture, and modern additions like the Marc Chagall stained-glass window, it is 
one of the most beautiful cathedrals in England. The city’s Roman origins are still visible in 
the remnants of walls that enclose the center, forming a compact grid of streets. At the 
crossroads stands the Market Cross, a 16th-century monument and a focal point of local life.
Chichester is also a cultural hub. The Chichester Festival Theatre, renowned for 
world-class productions, has launched many plays to the West End and Broadway. Nearby, 
Pallant House Gallery houses an exceptional collection of modern British art.
The city’s location adds to its appeal: the South Downs National Park lies 
to the north, while to the south   stretch the harbors and beaches of Chichester 
Harbour, a haven for sailors and birdwatchers. Chichester’s unique charm lies in 
its balance of history and culture,   its Roman past and medieval heart sitting 
comfortably alongside a vibrant modern identity. On the edge of Chichester Harbour lies Bosham, one 
of Sussex’s most evocative coastal villages. With its tidal quays, flint cottages, and sailboats 
bobbing on calm waters, Bosham feels timeless. At high tide, the sea laps directly onto 
the main road, reminding visitors of the village’s intimate connection with the tides.
Bosham has an extraordinary history. It appears in the Bayeux Tapestry, associated 
with Harold Godwinson before his fateful journey to Normandy in 1064. The village’s Holy 
Trinity Church is one of the oldest in Sussex, with Saxon origins and a tranquil churchyard that 
has inspired countless artists and photographers. Beyond history, Bosham is beloved for its natural 
setting. It is part of the Chichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where saltmarshes 
and mudflats attract an abundance of birdlife. Walkers and sailors alike find Bosham a perfect 
base, with footpaths along the shore and small harbourside cafés offering a place to pause.
Bosham is not a busy resort but a quiet, contemplative place. It invites 
reflection on centuries past while   offering the simple pleasures of sea 
air, gentle views, and historic charm. Few castles capture the imagination quite like 
Bodiam Castle, near Robertsbridge in East Sussex. Built in 1385 by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, a former 
knight of Edward III, it is a masterpiece of medieval military architecture and romance.
Perfectly symmetrical, Bodiam is surrounded by a wide moat, its towers reflected in the 
still waters. Though partially ruined inside, the exterior remains almost intact, creating 
one of the most photogenic castles in England. Crossing the bridge to its gatehouse 
feels like stepping into a fairy tale.  Inside, remnants of the great hall, kitchens, and 
private chambers give a sense of medieval life, while exhibitions explain the castle’s history and 
defenses. Children and adults alike are captivated by its blend of fantasy and authenticity.
Bodiam’s magic lies in its completeness. It embodies the medieval ideal of a knight’s 
stronghold while enchanting the imagination. It is a place where history and myth intertwine, making 
it a highlight of any journey through Sussex. Few places in England carry such 
historical weight as Battle,   named after the most famous conflict in 
English history: the Battle of Hastings in 1066. On the very site where William 
the Conqueror defeated King Harold II, Battle Abbey was founded as a gesture of penance. 
Its ruins and visitor center bring the story of the Norman Conquest vividly to life.
The battlefield itself remains a place   of reflection, where the fate of a nation 
was decided. Walking the fields offers both historical insight and a quiet sense of connection 
to the past. The abbey’s surviving structures, including the atmospheric gatehouse, are reminders 
of the centuries of monastic life that followed. Beyond its battlefield, Battle is a picturesque 
town, with Georgian cottages, independent shops, and inviting tea rooms. It is a place where 
history and modern life blend seamlessly, and where the story of England’s medieval 
beginnings can still be felt underfoot. Nestled at the foot of the South Downs, 
Amberley is one of Sussex’s most charming   villages. Flint cottages, thatched 
roofs, and narrow lanes give it an air of timelessness. At its heart lies 
Amberley Castle, now a luxury hotel, its fortified walls and gatehouse 
offering a glimpse of medieval grandeur. But Amberley is also celebrated for the Amberley 
Museum, an open-air site dedicated to industrial heritage and crafts. Spanning 36 acres, it 
showcases traditional skills like pottery, blacksmithing, and printing, as well as exhibits 
on transport, communication, and rural trades. Old buses, steam engines, and working 
workshops bring history vividly to life. Amberley combines the best of Sussex: 
the beauty of a South Downs village, the romance of a castle, and the richness of 
living history at the museum. It is a place where both rural and industrial traditions are 
honoured, making it unique in scope and charm. Nestled in the Cuckmere Valley, Alfriston is 
one of Sussex’s most picturesque villages. Its timber-framed cottages, medieval 
church, and historic inns create the   atmosphere of a place untouched by time.
At the heart of the village stands St. Andrew’s Church, often called the “Cathedral 
of the Downs” for its size and beauty. Beside it is the Clergy House, the first property 
ever acquired by the National Trust, setting a precedent for heritage conservation in Britain.
Alfriston’s High Street is lined with tea rooms, independent shops, and pubs, including the Star 
Inn, which dates back to the 15th century. The village’s location makes it a perfect base for 
exploring the surrounding countryside, including walks to Cuckmere Haven and the South Downs Way.
What makes Alfriston special is its blend of history and tranquility. It feels 
authentically rural yet culturally   significant, a village that has preserved 
its soul while welcoming visitors warmly. In the High Weald near Ardingly lies Wakehurst 
Place, a 500-acre estate managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. It is sometimes called 
“Kew in the country” and offers landscapes that are as educational as they are beautiful.
Wakehurst is famed for the Millennium Seed Bank, the world’s largest wild plant conservation 
project. Beneath striking glass and steel vaults, billions of seeds are stored to 
safeguard biodiversity for the future. It is both a scientific marvel and 
a symbol of global responsibility.  The estate itself offers a variety 
of landscapes: formal gardens, wildflower meadows, woodlands, and wetlands. 
Its plant collections are rich and diverse, representing flora from across the 
globe. Seasonal displays ensure that   Wakehurst is captivating year-round, 
from spring blossoms to autumn colour. What makes Wakehurst extraordinary is its 
combination of beauty and purpose. It is not only a garden to enjoy, but also a place where the 
future of the planet’s plants is being preserved. Dominated by the majestic Arundel Castle, 
the town of Arundel is one of the jewels of Sussex. The castle, seat of the Dukes 
of Norfolk for nearly a thousand years, is an extraordinary example of medieval and 
Victorian grandeur. Its imposing battlements, lavish interiors, and spectacular gardens make 
it one of the finest stately homes in England. Below the castle, the town itself is full 
of character, with antique shops, galleries, and riverside walks along the River Arun. The 
Arundel Cathedral, a striking Gothic Revival building, adds to the town’s skyline, 
complementing the castle’s dominance. Each summer, the Arundel Festival 
of Arts transforms the town into a   celebration of music, theatre, and 
visual art, while the International Medieval Jousting Tournament at the castle 
draws enthusiasts from around the world. Arundel’s charm is its sense of timelessness: 
a living town that has preserved its historic character while embracing cultural life. 
The combination of its dramatic castle, vibrant community, and riverside setting makes 
it one of the most captivating places in Sussex.

Sussex, a historic county on England’s southern coast, is a land defined by contrasts. It is a region where chalk cliffs meet rolling downs, where medieval castles stand beside vibrant seaside towns, and where artistic retreats coexist with ancient battlefields. Steeped in centuries of history yet alive with modern culture, Sussex offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that together create a portrait of one of Britain’s most remarkable counties.
The county’s landscapes are its first great treasure. The South Downs National Park stretches like a green backbone across the region, its chalk hills giving way to hidden valleys, wildflower meadows, and sweeping views of the English Channel. Along the coast, the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head form some of the most dramatic sea cliffs in Europe, while tranquil beaches like West Wittering invite moments of calm. Inland, woodlands, gardens, and rivers weave together a patchwork of habitats that have inspired artists and poets for generations.
History lies around every corner in Sussex. From the Roman mosaics at Fishbourne and Bignor, to the Norman strongholds of Arundel and Bodiam, to the battleground of 1066 at Battle, Sussex has been a stage for pivotal moments in English history. Villages like Alfriston and Amberley preserve medieval charm, while stately homes such as Petworth and Goodwood reflect centuries of aristocratic grandeur.
Yet Sussex is not only about its past—it is equally about culture, creativity, and celebration. Brighton buzzes with cosmopolitan energy, while Glyndebourne and Charleston are world-renowned centers of music and art. Local traditions live on in rural festivals, crafts, and communities that keep the spirit of the county alive.
To explore Sussex is to discover a place of diversity and depth, where every landscape tells a story and every town or village has a unique character. The following 30 places represent the very best of Sussex: its landscapes, its history, its creativity, and its enduring charm. #sussex #uk #bestplaces

Introduction Best Places in Sussex 0:00
27. Brighton 3:02
26. Worthing 7:48
25. West Wittering Beach 10:15
24. Weald and Downland Museum 12:07
23. Camber Sands 15:26
22. Steyning 17:08
21. Seven Sisters Country Park 19:04
20. Rye 22:19
19. Petworth 27:23
18. Nymans Gardens 30:35
17. Midhurst 32:09
16. Michelham Priory 35:16
15. Lewes 38:09
14. Herstmonceaux Castle 41:55
13. Hastings 44:19
12. Goodwood 48:53
11. Eastbourne 51:34
10. Ditchling 55:28
9. Devil’s Dyke 57:09
8. Chichester 58:55
7. Bosham 01:01:55
6. Bodiam Castle 01:04:59
5. Battle 01:06:50
4. Amberley 01:09:37
3. Alfriston 01:12:02
2. Wakehurst Place 01:16:33
1. Arundel 01:18:24