Summary
Nestled away from the vastness of London, West Sussex is located along the southern coast, where the shoreline of the English Channel is bordered by a series of towns and seaside resorts. Many of these towns, such as Chichester and Arundel, are steeped in history, showcasing remarkable Roman, Saxon, and medieval monuments. Meanwhile, tourist destinations like Worthing and Bognor Regis leverage the sunny climate and pebble beaches, appealing to visitors seeking relaxation during the summer months. Inland, visitors are greeted by the gently rolling chalk hills of the South Downs, characterized by thatched cottages, flint walls, and charming market towns. This region is ideal for cycling, walking in the national park, and visiting quaint villages featuring traditional country pubs. Let us explore the best places to visit in West Sussex:
1. Chichester
The presence of the “ester” suffix in its name suggests the Roman heritage of Chichester. Scholars believe it might be the site where Claudius’ army landed in AD 43, marking it as one of Britain’s earliest Roman histories. Presently, Chichester is a sophisticated Georgian city reminiscent of scenes from a Jane Austen novel. The Pallant House Gallery, located in one of its many townhouses, showcases an impressive collection of 20th-century British art, featuring works by Lucien Freud, David Bomberg, Peter Blake, and others. Additionally, Chichester Cathedral, established in 1075, holds the distinction of being the only English cathedral visible from the sea. The walled Bishop’s Palace Gardens serve as a hidden oasis, bursting with vibrant colors during spring and summer.
2. Arundel
Set against the backdrop of the South Downs, Arundel is a picturesque town dominated by one of England’s most well-preserved medieval castles. The town was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, and the castle itself was established in 1067 shortly after the Norman Conquest. Although it sustained damage during the Civil War in the 1600s, extensive restorations in the 1700s rendered it one of Sussex’s most popular attractions, featuring an extensive armory, a chapel, and a dry moat, along with breathtaking views of the River Arun and surrounding countryside from its enchanting towers. Arundel Cathedral, although it possesses an archaic appearance, was constructed in the 1800s; it features a French Gothic design by Joseph Hansom, who is also known for the Hansom cab.
3. Petworth
Infused with a delightful blend of art, historical architecture, and quaint streets, Petworth is a charming town in the South Downs. The renowned Petworth House, belonging to George Wyndham in the 19th century, was frequented by the prominent artist J.M.W. Turner, who painted the deer park here during the 1820s. This stately home, now managed by the National Trust, possesses numerous Turner paintings and served as a location for scenes in the acclaimed film, Mr. Turner. The town center is equally enjoyable, particularly Lombard Street—a narrow, cobbled alley that winds its way to St. Mary’s Church. Reflecting its affluent nature, Petworth boasts various antique shops, artisan boutiques, and art galleries.
4. South Downs National Park
Established as a National Park in 2011, a wide expanse of lush countryside stretches across the central region of the county. The landscape is characterized by gentle, rounded chalk hills that rise to impressive heights while also providing accessible walks on their smooth inclines. Charming thatched villages with bed and breakfasts and pubs are dispersed throughout the area, and the South Downs Way offers an adventurous 100-mile footpath linking Hampshire and East Sussex. West Sussex is replete with opportunities to explore rural landscapes. To the north of Worthing, visitors can discover Cissbury Ring, a former Neolithic flint-mining site. The highest hill, Blackdown, reaches 280 meters and was once the peaceful retreat of the Poet Laureate Alfred, Lord Tennyson.
5. Worthing
Historically dubbed “Sunny Worthing” since the 19th century, this largest town in West Sussex attracted affluent Victorians seeking holiday getaways. The golden age of British seaside resorts may have passed, yet Worthing retains an authentic working town ambiance that transforms into a lively destination with the arrival of warm weather. The iconic pier, dating back to 1862, is a listed structure, featuring a recently revamped tearoom. Worthing is equipped with urban amenities while being adjacently located to the southern slopes of the South Downs. Additionally, a notable historic site located just west of Worthing in the Sompting area is St. Mary’s Church, an ancient Anglo-Saxon structure that predates the arrival of William the Conqueror, remaining well-preserved to this day.
6. Shoreham-by-Sea
Shoreham is primarily recognized for its airport, which, contrary to appearances, does not operate commercial airline flights; the facility is mainly utilized for public aerobatics and private aviation. The terminal, distinguished by its stylish Art Deco architecture, was completed in 1936. The expansive sandbank beach at Shoreham has been transformed into an upscale residential area, while the long shingle beach provides scenic walking opportunities year-round. In 1828, John Constable vividly depicted the seascape here. Shoreham Fort stands as a unique relic from a historical chapter of concern over a potential French invasion during Napoleon III’s reign. Recent restorations have preserved its ditches, cannon wall, gun platform, and caponiers.
7. Horsham
Situated in the Weald, a hilly terrain stretching across the center and northern parts of the county, Horsham presents itself as a thriving market town set against a picturesque countryside backdrop. Visitors are merely steps away from peaceful green spaces, such as the ecologically diverse Warnham Local Nature Reserve and Sumners Ponds, encompassing 40 hectares of secluded lakes. As one of the larger towns in the region, Horsham serves as a shopping hub, marked by an array of period architecture, including elegant Victorian and Georgian homes. Notably, Percy Bysshe Shelley, the esteemed Romantic poet born here in 1792 and later married to Mary Shelley, author of Frankenstein, is a historical figure closely associated with this town; the Horsham Museum offers insights into this connection and much more.
8. Amberley
This beautiful village set within the South Downs National Park is surrounded by unspoiled natural scenery. Amberley, located along the east bank of the Arun, is famous for its charming thatched cottages, many adorned with flint work and complemented by bright, flower-filled gardens. Quaint tea rooms grace the riverside while traditional pubs serving local cuisine provide excellent dining options. For those seeking a more opulent dining experience, Amberley Castle—a fortified manor house dating back to the 1300s—now operates as a hotel and restaurant. The Amberley Wild Brooks, located on the Arun’s floodplain, supports a variety of wintering wildfowl, while the Amberley Museum showcases traditional trades such as printing and pottery, featuring a 1950s fire station and an operational narrow-gauge steam railway.
9. Midhurst
Located in the Sussex Weald, Midhurst is a quaint rural town boasting a wealth of intriguing stories. The town features a self-guided heritage trail that leads visitors to a former Iron Age fort, highlighting historical landmarks that span from the medieval era to the Georgian and Victorian periods. With over 100 listed buildings, none are as enigmatic and striking as Cowdray House—once one of England’s most prestigious Tudor mansions. Its historical significance is underscored by visits from notable figures such as Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, as well as Guy Fawkes, who was employed here in the late 16th century. Although the house suffered destruction by fire in 1793, many of its towers and walls remain, creating a haunting yet beautiful ruin.
10. Littlehampton
Positioned at the mouth of the Arun, Littlehampton is a seaside town that exudes a more rustic ambiance compared to its counterparts like Worthing and Bognor. The historic harbor, particularly along the east bank of the river estuary, is home to old fishermen’s cottages that have now been transformed into cafes and fish-and-chip shops. A newly built promenade allows visitors to stroll along the waterfront leading to Harbour Park, a lively destination filled with activities for families during the warmer months. Guests can also take a ferry across to the east bank of the Arun to enjoy views of historic waterside structures, or they can meander along the beach where traditional amusements such as pitch-and-putt, crazy golf, and a miniature railway await.
11. Fishbourne
Located just a train stop west of Chichester, Fishbourne is notable for a couple of significant attractions. The premier site is the Fishbourne Roman Palace, which functions as an archaeological museum showcasing the preserved ground floor of a palace and supply fort established during the Roman invasion in AD 43. A fascinating aspect of the structure is its evolution over time, as plain black and white mosaics were later enhanced by sumptuous designs like the impeccably preserved Cupid on a Dolphin Mosaic. Furthermore, Fishbourne is adjacent to the Chichester Harbour Area of Natural Beauty, recognized as one of England’s few undeveloped natural harbors—ideal for boating and a sanctuary for coastal wildlife.
12. Bosham
Located near the Hampshire border, Bosham is a picturesque village situated beside an inlet of Chichester Harbour. Once regarded as one of Sussex’s most esteemed locations in the middle ages, it is noteworthy to mention that Bosham is referenced in the Bayeux Tapestry. The village was home to King Canute’s palace in the early 11th century, and the Holy Trinity Church hosts the grave of his young daughter. This historic building features a blend of Saxon and Norman architecture, making it a key site to visit. The charming waterfront and Bosham Quay are adorned with rustic maritime character, offering unobstructed views across Chichester Harbour.
13. Bognor Regis
The resort town of Bognor Regis is emblematic of the British beach holiday experience, a leisure tradition that many in the country embraced prior to the advent of affordable foreign flights in the 1970s. A distinctive feature of Bognor is its favorable climate, which allows for more sunshine hours annually than any other place in the UK. Its appeal is particularly pronounced during July and August, when visitors can unwind in beach chairs on expansive pebble beaches, enjoy seaside dining, and wander through the town’s picturesque flower gardens located at Hotham and Marine Park. The pier serves as the venue for the International Birdman competition in early September, where “birdmen” attempt to fly from its edge.
14. Bramber
Bramber offers an exceptionally visitor-friendly experience, with an array of restaurants lining its charming main street known as “the St.” The charm of this village is evident in its flint walls and ivy-clad cottages adorned with wisteria. For sightseeing, the ruins of Bramber Castle await exploration. Like many historical English fortifications, this castle sustained damage during the English Civil War; however, remnants of its walls remain, allowing visitors to observe the earthworks of the original Norman motte and bailey structure. A highlight worth visiting is St. Mary’s House, also located on the St., celebrated by many as the finest timber house in West Sussex, featuring interiors of beautifully painted paneling in the Elizabethan trompe l’oeil style.
15. Haywards Heath
As one of the largest towns in West Sussex, Haywards Heath is a flourishing and affluent community, making it an ideal location for dining and shopping. However, one of its most appealing attributes for tourists is its proximity to several esteemed National Trust properties. Among these, Nymans and Wakehurst Place stand out. Nymans features a stunning English country garden in the Arts and Crafts style surrounding the ruins of a “Jacobethan” manor house that was extensively damaged by fire in the 1930s and now exists as a solemn reminder of its former elegance. Conversely, Wakehurst Place, managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens, boasts beautifully landscaped wetlands, woodlands, ponds, and walled gardens spanning across two square kilometers.
