Staycation ideas: The West Sussex Coast
The long stretch of coastline in West Sussex (yes there’s 50 miles of it!) becomes a natural playground and never better than in the spring or summer!
The long stretch of coastline in West Sussex (yes there’s 50 miles of it!) becomes a natural playground and never better than in the spring or summer!
With 50 miles of coastline to explore, why not take to the water for a new perspective of the coastline?
Whether you’re looking to learn something new or improve your skills in the water, there are expert instructors to help you every step of the way. From a gentle morning paddleboard on the Adur Estuary, to an exhilarating weekend of kitesurfing at Littlehampton, wing-foiling at West Witterings, or snorkelling in Selsey, there is a sport just for you.
For those looking to get closer to nature, take a tour around Chichester’s AONB on the Solar Heritage, a solar powered Catamaran, a virtually silent boat. Spot rare and special birds at RSPB Pagham, see water voles in their natural habitat on a boat safari at Arundel Wetland Centre. Or try a Knepp Safari to encounter herds of wild ponies, deer, cattle and pigs as they roam 3,500 acres of Sussex given over to rewilding. There is plenty of wildlife in West Sussex, don't forget your binoculars!
This is one of the sunniest counties in the UK, vines flourish, and visitors are very welcome to come and sample the wares.
From self-guided rambles to fascinating tours, exclusive talks, wine-paired meals and unique experiences, you can even stay overnight on some estates. And why not? There’s plenty to explore and no need for a taxi!
Top coastal wineries in West Sussex: Ashling Park Estate with luxury lodges and tasting rooms, Tinwood Estate with private lodges, Highdown Vineyard tasting and tours, and Wiston Estate Winery and Chalk Restaurant, with plenty more if you venture into the south downs national park.
To discover more, check out this handy guide: Vineyards, Wineries & Tasting in West Sussex | Experience West Sussex
Dog Friendly and rich in glorious gardens, it's time to visit West Sussex this year.
Don’t miss Goodwood’s ultimate festival for dogs and their owners Goodwoof, takes place 28 and 29 May in West Sussex celebrating all the joy and delight canines bring to our lives.
And if you need inspiration for a weekend away with your four-legged pal, Experience West Sussex have picked out some great places to visit, eat and stay that will welcome you and your pooch. Check out their guide here: Dog friendly attractions in West Sussex | Experience West Sussex
But if you’re after a taste of culture, the cathedral city of Chichester is a real delight and this year in particular is a very special one. Celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Chichester Festival Theatre, the 40th anniversary of the Pallant House Gallery and the 10th anniversary of the Novium Museum, as well as the 200th anniversary of the Chichester Canal, there will be many cultural events happening in and around the city. A great reason to put Chichester on your list this summer.
If you like the sound of Chichester, we've put together our perfect itinerary for a short break here: 48 hours in Chichester, West Sussex
For those who are green fingered, West Sussex has gardens galore and gloriously abundant parklands, small and arty gardens, floral excellence, sculpture trails, romantic ruins, lakes and forests! Formerly neglected areas have been brought back to their full and stunning potential (see West Dean Gardens and Leonardslee) and Wakehurst holds the world's largest conservation project at the Millennium Seed Bank. See our gardens at their stunning best this summer.
Coastal focus: West Dean Gardens, Denmans Gardens, Highdown Gardens.
Check out this Experience West Sussex guide for the best Gourmet Garden Trails In West Sussex | Experience West Sussex
West Sussex has 50 miles of stunning coastline, interspersed with sand dunes, mudflats, marshlands and long sandy beaches that are the perfect place to drink in the magnificent natural beauty of the English seaside.
Chichester is perfect for outdoor adventurers who like to mix an active lifestyle with a slice of art and culture.
From art galleries to historic castles, you’ll find cultural inspiration all the way along the English coast.