Brighton is a bustling city with an amazing range of things to do, but what if there was more to explore? Good news, there is! The surrounding area of East Sussex has a whole host of things, from the beauty of the South Downs to historic buildings that grace its presence. In this guide, we’ll outline some of the best things to do in East Sussex.
Seven Sisters Country Park
Offering spectacular views of the Sussex coastline, Seven Sisters is the perfect place to take a brisk walk and absorb some of the best nature the county has to offer. The park offers sights of the Seven Sisters Chalk Cliffs, the meandering River Cuckmere, and South Downs grassland home to distinctive wildlife.
There are a whole host of footpaths and trails to explore. The Easy Access Trail is a good option if you’re looking for something accessible and suitable to everyone’s needs. An audio trail is also available by scanning QR codes on public benches and can be easily located on a map online.
Located near Seaford, the park offers a car park, public toilets, refreshments, a visitor centre and is easily accessible by public transport. Buses 12, 12A and 12X run from Brighton to Eastbourne. It’s perfect if you are looking for a car-free day out!
Address: Seaford, BN25 4AD
Website: Home – Seven Sisters
Lewes Castle & Barbican House Museum
The medieval town of Lewes is hundreds of years old and holds some of Sussex’s oldest history. If you’re looking to go on a day trip, it’s well worth checking out Lewes Castle. Built in the late 11th century by William de Warenne, the first Earl of Surrey, Lewes Castle played a significant part in the protection of the South Downs.
The Barbican House Museum is located next to the castle and holds the archaeological history of Sussex. The site offers some spectacular views of the surrounding area and is easily accessible, being a short distance from Lewes high street.
Adult tickets are priced at £10, while children aged 5 to 17 and students with a valid ID can purchase tickets for £5.50. Seniors aged 65 and over can enter for £9. Families consisting of two adults and up to four children can benefit from a discounted family ticket for £26.
Address: Barbican House, 169 High Street, Lewes, BN7 1YE
Website: Lewes Castle & Museum – Sussex Past
Camber Sands
The beach of Camber Sands is unique in Sussex and it’s the only sandy beach in the whole of the county. Stretching three miles, Camber Sands is the only beach with sand dunes, which is ideal if you want to trade the rocky terrain for a soft touch of sand. There are several biking activities available, from pedal bikes to electric bikes. And, if you want to be a bit more adventurous, the beach is known for its kitesurfing.
Address: Old Lydd Road, TN31 7RH
Website: Camber Sands Holiday Park, East Sussex | Parkdean Resorts
Bluebell Vineyard Estates
Sipping a crisp glass of wine might be one of the best feelings and if you feel the same, this one’s for you! Bluebell Vineyard, located in the East Sussex countryside, is home to some of the best English wines. Like the wines made in the Champagne region in France, this vineyard makes award-winning sparkling wines. The estate is open all year round and offers a range of tours and tastings that are 1-2 hours. The vineyard also offers a woodland trail with views of the grapevines and open fields. Tickets for a tour and tasting session are priced at £23.95 per person.
Address: Glenmore Farm, Slider’s Ln, Furner’s Green, Uckfield TN22 3RU
Website: Visit Us – Bluebell Vineyard Estates Ltd
Great Dixter House and Gardens
Great Dixter is a 15th century house representing the rich history of Sussex. Styled in a medieval fashion, the antiquated house is paired with a garden, leading the way in ornamental gardening and horticultural education. The house is also home to a café that uses the produce grown in the vegetable garden. It’s located in the village of Northiam, nestled in the Sussex Weald, and would be perfect for a quiet and peaceful afternoon!
Adult tickets are priced at £16, while children aged 5 to 15 can purchase tickets for £5.
Address: Great Dixter, Northiam, Rye, TN31 6PH
Website: Welcome to Great Dixter Charitable Trust
Eastbourne Pier
Everyone knows that Brighton’s Palace Pier is a must-see when in Brighton. If you’ve overdone it and are looking for something else to explore, then you should visit Eastbourne Pier. The pier opened in 1872 and spans the length of 300 metres.
The Victorian Tea Rooms, located in the middle of the pier, offer a range of classic treats, including freshly baked scones, clotted cream and strawberry preserve, paired with a pot of tea or coffee. You can also indulge in another seaside classic – Fish and Chips! The restaurant serves freshly battered fish complete with hot chips.
Address: Grand Parade, Eastbourne, BN21 3EL
Website: Welcome To Eastbourne Pier, East Sussex
Kent and East Sussex Railway
Running between Tenterden, Northiam and Bodiam, this heritage railway captures a bygone era of British engineering. It offers 11.5 miles of track, winding through the Sussex and Kent countryside. As you approach the end of the line, you can see Bodiam Castle!
The heritage railway uses a steam locomotive to haul the carriages. Some off-peak services are operated by a diesel engine, offering the sensation of travelling back in time. At the main station in Tenterden, there is a book and gift shop – handy if you want to buy any memorabilia. There is also an Art Deco café for you to grab a train-themed bite to eat before you board! At the terminus stations, free car parking is also available.
Adult tickets are priced at £29.50, while children aged 3 to 15 can purchase tickets for £5. Seniors aged 60 and over can buy tickets for £25.50 and family tickets (2 adults and 2 children) are priced at £59. Please note that buying tickets in advance will guarantee you the cheapest fare.
Address: Tenterden Town Station, TN30 6HE
Website: Kent & East Sussex Railway
Hastings Museum and Art Gallery
Founded in 1890, Hastings Museum and Art Gallery is a local gallery that holds a global collection. Located near Hastings town centre, the Museum is free and holds several pop-up exhibitions alongside their permanent ones.
Found onsite, The Durbar Hall, built in 1886, offers a range of services, from weddings to civil ceremonies. The Hall was built with cedar wood and showcases stunning stained-glass windows. Many events are held here so it’s worth checking the website to see if there is anything you fancy! Alongside free entry, there is also free parking and Hastings Museum is easily accessible by transport, with its close proximity to the centre.
Address: John’s Place, Bohemia Road, Hastings TN34 1ET
Website: Hastings Museum and Art Gallery – Local Museum Global Collection
Rye
Rye is a picturesque medieval town near the East Sussex border with Kent. The town is best known for its cute, quaint houses and its rickety cobbled streets. Brimming with history, the town features a historic castle that dates to the 14th century, serving as a defence for the town.
The old-world charm can be felt through the streets of Rye, with its maze of traditional pavements. The town is packed with independent shops and boutiques, making it the perfect place for shopping if you are looking to escape chain businesses. Gibbet Mill, also in Rye, is a Grade II listed smock mill with a history dating back to 1596. It now serves as a bed and breakfast and is perfect if you are looking to stay the night!
Address: Rye, East Sussex
