By Sussex, now East Sussex and West Sussex counties, lies along the English Chanel south of London, with Brighton and Hove being the largest city in the area.
Sussex is well known for its chalk cliffs, shoreline and history which tracks back to Roman times into the Bronze age and 20th century. Vessels taking part in the Normandy invasion during World War II debarked from here.
Coastal Sussex is the sunniest place in the U.K. thanks to its seaside location and weather patterns.
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Things to do in Sussex
Naturally, the coastline is a key focus for visitors to Sussex. Walkers will also enjoy the rolling Sussex Downs. The South Downs extend 260 miles, with South Downs Way, a long-distance footpath and bridleway, running the full extent of the chalk ridge from Winchester to Eastbourne.
Spy television producers and filmmakers taking advantage of the historic steam locomotives using the Bluebell Railway running between Sheffield Park and Kingscote. The railway was the first preserved standard-gauge, steam-driven passenger railway in the world to operate as a public service when it opened in 1960.
South Downs National Park and High Weald score with nature lovers, while wineries, castles, gardens, battlefields and Brighton’s best views on board British Airways i360 Viewing Tower are sure to please even veteran travelers.
Want a unique experience? Try this winery tour aboard a vintage London bus.
Top Destinations in Sussex
Brighton – Once a popular destination for London day-trippers, Brighton benefited from the coming of the Victorian railway in 1843. Prior to this, Brighton was already a successful health resort, making the most of its proximity as a fine location for sea bathing during the 18th century.
The richly decorated Royal Pavilion features and one of the most extravagant Chinoiserie interiors in the British Isles, built in the Indo-Saracenic style reminiscent of 19th century. No longer a royal residence, the Brighton Pavilion is now the main tourist attraction in the city.
Brighton Marina – The largest marina in Europe with over 1,500 berths, Brighton Marina has a stunning waterfront vista with numerous, bars, restaurants and hotels nearby.
Bexhill-on-Sea – De La Warr Pavilion, a recently-restored 1930s Grade One listed building, has become a centre for contemporary arts events and architecture.
Rye – The beautifully restored medieval harbor town lies at the confluence of the rivers Rother, Tillingham and Brede. Rye is one of the Cinque Ports, well-known for its connections with 18th century smuggling.
Battle – This tiny town is the site of the Battle of Hastings, a crucial turning point in British history, when William, Duke of Normandy defeated King Harold, and became William I – now known as ‘William the Conqueror’. Battle Abbey was built to commemorate the battle; it was dedicated in 1095, almost 30 years after the historic event took place.
Chichester – The month-long Festival of Chichester brings local and international artists, authors and performers of the highest calibre to town each summer.
This cathedral city has some of the oldest buildings and churches in Britain. The Chichester Cross was built in 1501 and stands at the intersection of the four main routes through the city centre. West Wittering – Sailors, surfers and windsurfers flock to West Wittering and its neighbours East Wittering and Selsey, all set on Bracklesham Bay, eight miles to the south of Chichester.
Where to Stay in Sussex
Looking for a holiday home in Sussex? From holiday cottages in Brighton to holiday rentals in Chichester, we’ve narrowed down your search to some of the best-rated properties available.
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