Things to do in East Sussex

East Sussex’s warm climate and beaches make an ideal place to relax. Brighton combines a laid back atmosphere with plenty to entertain the visitor. Wander the 1722ft Brighton Pier to check out the rides and attractions or for something to eat and drink. For a different kind of cultural experience visit King George IV’s Brighton Pavilion. Inspired by John Nash you can tour the stunning palace rooms and wander the gardens. The Lanes area of Brighton is formed of narrow streets where you can browse antique shops or stop for something to eat or drink in the chilled out atmosphere.

Further along the coast, Eastbourne is a vibrant Victorian resort, with the Eastbourne Pier, a bandstand and plenty of hotels. Eastbourne has plenty of attractions and live shows for visitors. You can walk to the highest chalk cliffs in the UK at Beachy Head, standing over 160m tall.

Brighton and Eastbourne are separated by the chalky uplands known as the South Downs National Park, a collection of market towns, quaint villages, woodlands and lowlands. Discover the white cliffs of the Seven Sisters coast and take a walk to see the stunning views.

Other coastal towns include Newhaven, Peacehaven, Rye and Pevensey where you will find the Pevensey Levels, a Site of Special Scientific Interest where the marshland supports an abundance of birdlife.

The High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a vast area that dominates the East Sussex landscape and offers a range of activities to enjoy. The area covers 2395km of bridleways, paths and bike trails offering a real chance to get out in the fresh air. The High Weald is covered with nature reserves and ancient woodlands supporting an abundance of nature including many flower meadows, common dormice and an array of birdlife. There are also over 30 manor houses to explore, dotted across the area.

You can tour East Sussex’s country houses with the likes of Firle Place, Glynde Place and Charleston or the gardens of Great Dixter. If you prefer steam trains you’ll be spoilt for choice with Blubell Railway, Spa Valley Railway or Kent & East Sussex Railway.

East Sussex is home to a number of castles including Bodiam Castle where you can take the boat along the River Rothe, Lewes Castle, Pevensey Castle, Hastings Castle and Herstmonceux Castle where you can spend a day out and explore the historic fortifications.

East Sussex’s famous names include Rudyard Kipling and you can visit Bateman’s, the Kiplings’ 17th century residence and tour the house, woodlands and Park Mill.

East Sussex has a range of annual events, including concerts at Glyndebourne, Elderflower Fields Festival, Brighton Pride week in August, July’s Brighton Kite Festival and the Burning the Clocks parade. Sussex Day takes places annually on 16th June, St. Richard’s Day, to celebrate the county’s heritage and culture. St. Richard of Chichester is the patron saint of Sussex.

Browse more things to do in and around East Sussex