If you’re looking for an exciting break in the UK, there are more than enough things to do in West Sussex. Nestled along the stunning southern coast of England, this lovely destination provides visitors with an excellent opportunity to see some of the country’s highlights.
West Sussex offers charming towns, pretty landscapes, intriguing history and heritage and much more. The county is often overlooked for its famous neighbours, but this charming area certainly deserves the spotlight. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends or your partner, there’s something here for a range of holiday itineraries.
Keep reading to learn more about the top things to do in West Sussex so that you can plan a break here with all of these great ideas in mind.
For those looking for the best things to do with Kids in West Sussex, this family-friendly destination has a lot to offer. Whether you’re planning a break brimming with outdoor adventures or something a little more laid-back, you’ll find it all in this outstanding county.
West Sussex has some excellent theme parks, allowing for hours of entertainment for the whole family. Drusillas Park in Polegate is a great way to make memories and enjoy a fun day out here. Spend some time marvelling over the exotic animals and be sure to snap plenty of pictures during your trip.
Paradise Park in Newhaven is another fantastic option for those in pursuit of unusual things to do in West Sussex. Wander along the Heritage Trail, stroll through the pretty gardens, or marvel over the interesting exhibitions at The Museum of Life. With lots to see and do, you’re sure to find something here to please the whole clan.
There are plenty of other theme parks and attractions in West Sussex including Fishers Farm Park, Harbour Park, Bewl Water, Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway plus many more. With so much to see and do here, you’ll find yourself needing more time just to experience them all.
For families visiting the county, you will discover a plethora of sandy shores worth exploring. This makes it an excellent place for those looking for things to do in West Sussex with toddlers. The beaches provide the perfect way to enjoy some time with the family or simply sit back and relax whilst taking in the impressive coastal vistas.
Be sure to spend some time at West Wittering Beach where you can unwind on a Blue Flag Beach with the comfort of knowing that the kids can play safely. Here you can experience outstanding views of Chichester Harbour, alongside wildlife in abundance. If you’re visiting West Sussex with your furry friends, you’ll also be happy to know that West Wittering is also pet-friendly, meaning all are invited!
The UK is known for its unpredictable weather, so it is worth planning your trip to West Sussex with rainy-day activities in mind. Luckily enough, we’ve researched for you so that you can visit this wonderful county with ease.
There are several theatres, cinemas and live venues in West Sussex, perfect for those wetter days. Whether you’re looking for a movie day with the whole family or are in pursuit of some excellent entertainment, you’ll find it all here.
Chichester Festival Theatre is an excellent spot for cultural enthusiasts and architecture lovers as the historical building dates back to the 1960s. You will also find a jam-packed calendar of events here, catering to a range of tastes.
Ropetackle Arts Centre is situated in Shoreham-by-Sea and is an outstanding venue located next to the lovely river Adur. This exciting attraction has everything from renowned performers to live music, art, film, comedy shows and more. A great option for families, friends and couples, you’re sure to find something here for those rainy days in West Sussex.
If you’d rather snuggle up with a movie, Dome Cinema in Worthing is a fantastic place to do just that. Here you can marvel over the impressive historical building that first opened its doors in 1911 and enjoy an array of entertainment. From films to opera, theatre performances and more, there’s something here for everyone.
You will discover a plethora of fantastic entertainment venues throughout West Sussex. So, no matter the weather, the county never fails to deliver!
As there’s so much to do around West Sussex, you’re sure to find a fun activity for a range of visitors. With theme parks for the kids, entertainment venues for the whole family and spas to enjoy on a romantic break, the county never fails to impress.
West Sussex comprises miles of stunning countryside, making it an ideal destination for those looking to get out and active. A great activity to enjoy here is the many hiking trails on offer. The plethora of routes caters to a range of abilities, with long and short hikes available throughout the county. So, get your hiking boots on and get ready to explore some of the best natural spots around West Sussex.
A great place to start on your hiking adventure is the Cissbury Ring. The hike is around 3.4 miles in length and takes around 1 hour to complete, allowing visitors to enjoy a shorter walk in West Sussex. This route is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in jaw-dropping vistas and coastal cliffs around the county.
If you’re looking for a more challenging path, Beacon Hill and Harting Down is a great option. This hike is approximately 5.9 miles in distance and takes around 3 hours to complete. The hike starts in Elsted Village and takes you on a journey through quaint villages with impressive views of the rolling hills and much more. There’s also an excellent pub at the end of the trail, ideal for those looking to grab a refreshment to reward all the hard work!
You will encounter a plethora of hikes and trails throughout West Sussex, each as beautiful as the next. No matter where you choose to go, a walk around the county is sure to impress.
If you’re looking for fun things to do in West Sussex for adults, be sure to try the vineyards here. These provide a great way to immerse yourself in fine wines and pretty landscapes, all whilst learning about the grapes and the wine-making process.
Kinsbrook Vineyard is situated in Thakeham, West Sussex and is an excellent option for those looking to experience the wineries here. You can try a selection of wines, all whilst marvelling over the pretty scenery and perhaps grabbing a bite to eat. With a restaurant and farm shop, visitors often spend their whole day at this beautiful vineyard as there is so much to see and do here. This is a wonderful way to enjoy some relaxation during your getaway and is a perfect way to unwind after scouring all that this outstanding part of the UK has to offer.
West Sussex is an excellent UK destination for couples seeking a romantic retreat. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back getaway or something a little more adventurous, you’re sure to find something here for a range of itineraries.
History lovers will be pleasantly surprised when visiting West Sussex, as there’s also an impressive selection of museums and galleries scattered around the county. These provide an excellent opportunity to uncover more about the rich history and heritage of this beautiful part of the UK. It’s also a great way to spend some time with your partner as you marvel over the many artefacts and fantastic art around West Sussex.
The Wings Museum is a great place to start for those planning to scour the museums in West Sussex. It presents several wrecks and taxidermy from the aircraft of World War 2. Take a look at some of the most significant crash sites in history that have been recreated from the salvage remains of the aeroplanes. You can find the Wings Museum at Bucklands Farm on Brantridge Lane in West Sussex.
For those looking to take in some impressive artwork, be sure to check out the Long Bench in Littlehampton, West Sussex. This unique masterpiece is famous for being Britain’s longest bench and provides visitors with some great photo opportunities. It is approximately 1,000 feet long and can seat around 300 people, providing an intriguing and creative activity to enjoy.
Millennium Seed Bank at Kew Gardens is perfect for gardening enthusiasts as the attraction is home to almost 2 billion seeds from around 38,000 species. Here you can stroll through the pretty grounds and learn more about the seeds that are planted in this facility. Be sure to spend some time watching as the scientists get to work testing and creating perfect conditions for the species to thrive. This is an unusual activity in West Sussex and one that is great for those looking to try something a little different!
After you have spent some time scouring the top sights and attractions in West Sussex, you’re likely in need of some relaxation and restoration. If so, there’s no better place to enjoy some tranquillity with your partner than by a trip to the spa. There are also plenty of options around the county, making it an excellent choice for those looking to unwind and relish some pampering.
Alexander House and Utopia Spa is positioned in Turners Hill Village and is a great spot for those looking for a luxurious day in the countryside. From the hotel, you can also stroll through the surrounding national parks, local vineyards and idyllic towns with ease. Alongside its fantastic location, Alexander House also offers some great facilities. Here you can appreciate one of the many treatments, take a dip in the swimming pool, relax in the sauna and steam rooms and much more.
There are plenty of other outstanding spas to enjoy around West Sussex, all of which have something different to offer. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat in the countryside, or plan to spend your afternoon indulging in spa treatments, you’re sure to feel fully rejuvenated after your break.
There’s an abundance of gardens to wander in West Sussex, a great way to get outdoors and marvel over the pretty flora and fauna. With such a huge selection you’ll find small and big venues, botanical gardens and pretty estates with historical buildings. These allow guests to uncover the heritage surrounding the county, all whilst spending some time in nature.
Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens is one worth checking out when visiting West Sussex. The gardens are set in a 240-acre estate and display a breathtaking range of flowers and wildlife. It was also restored in 2019 and has since been attracting visitors from all over the UK.
You will discover an array of other excellent gardens to scour in West Sussex. Some of the favoured options include Wakehurst, Sussex Prairie Gardens and many more.
We hope that after reading this article you now have a better insight into the best things to do in West Sussex. This beautiful county has much to offer a range of visitors making it perfect for varying itineraries. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing break by the sea or plan to enjoy live entertainment and multiple activities around the region, you’ll discover something here for all.
If you’re an avid explorer and are in pursuit of your next adventure, we have an extensive range of travel guides around the world. Packed with information, these resources provide you with everything you need to know for planning your next voyage!
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we can earn a small commission when our visitors click on them. This helps us to keep our content free and accessible for everyone, but you’ll never be charged for engaging with them.
© 2009-2025 – BACKPACKERBOY
WEBSITE DESIGN BY SEO TRAVEL
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we can earn a small commission when our visitors click on them. This helps us to keep our content free and accessible for everyone, but you’ll never be charged for engaging with them.
The 12 Best Things to Do in Melbourne for Young Adults and Teens! 