Sussex, United Kingdom Travel Guide

Discover Sussex: A blend of historic landmarks, stunning coastlines, and the serene beauty of the South Downs National Park.

Sussex, located in the southeastern part of the United Kingdom, is a region rich in history and natural beauty. From the rolling hills of the South Downs to the vibrant seaside towns, Sussex offers a delightful mix of experiences for visitors. The county is divided into East Sussex and West Sussex, each with its unique charm and attractions. The South Downs National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering stunning walks and breathtaking views. Whether you're hiking up the Seven Sisters cliffs or enjoying a leisurely stroll through the picturesque villages, the park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. For those who prefer the coast, Brighton is a lively city with a famous pier, eclectic shops, and a thriving arts scene. The Royal Pavilion, with its exotic architecture, is a highlight not to be missed. Historically, Sussex is home to several significant landmarks. The ancient town of Lewes boasts a medieval castle and the remains of a priory, while the Battle of Hastings site in Battle marks the famous 1066 confrontation. For a touch of quintessential English charm, visit the historic village of Rye with its cobbled streets and timbered houses. Additionally, Sussex's vineyards produce some of the UK's finest sparkling wines, making for a delightful day of wine tasting tours.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sussex.

Visit the South Downs National Park in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
Brighton's Lanes are a maze of narrow streets full of unique shops and cafes; take your time to explore and find hidden gems.
If visiting during the summer, book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, as they tend to fill up quickly.
Try local Sussex produce at farmers' markets, including cheeses, meats, and fresh vegetables for a true taste of the region.
Consider taking a guided tour of the Sussex vineyards to learn more about the wine-making process and sample some excellent local wines.

Top City Travel Guides in Sussex

The cities of Sussex, and the easiest places to base yourself.

London

Windsor

Explore Sussex: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Sussex

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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ABBA Arena

Experience the groundbreaking ABBA Voyage concert in a bespoke East London arena blending digital innovation with timeless music.

4.9

All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club

Historic home of Wimbledon, the world’s oldest and most prestigious grass-court tennis championships in London’s Wimbledon district.

4.8

Black Cab Heritage Tours

Explore London’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems in a classic black taxi with expert guides tailoring every private tour to your interests.

5.0

Lord's Cricket Ground

Experience the timeless spirit of cricket at Lord's, London’s historic ground and the revered 'Home of Cricket' since 1814.

4.7

Best landmarks in Sussex

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Prime Meridian

Stand astride the historic Prime Meridian line at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, the birthplace of global time and navigation.

4.5

St Michael's Church

Discover England’s finest surviving Anglo-Saxon church, built over Roman ruins where Saint Alban was tried and a millennium of history unfolds.

4.6

St Margaret's Church

Historic 12th-century Anglican church beside Westminster Abbey, famed as the House of Commons’ parish church and a jewel of Perpendicular Gothic architecture.

4.4

Mahatma Gandhi statue

A bronze tribute to Gandhi’s peaceful resistance, standing among world leaders in the heart of London’s political district.

4.7

Best restaurants in Sussex

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Pipe and Glass

Michelin-starred Yorkshire gastropub where hearty local dishes, real ales, and luxury rooms create unforgettable countryside escapes in a historic 15th-century haven.

4.8

The Bonny Inn

Ribble Valley pub gem with vegan delights, valley views, roaring fires, and hearty local fare in a dog-friendly modern haven.

4.5

Sussex Bar & Restaurant

A vibrant Soho bistro blending Sussex countryside flavors with London’s energy, featuring seasonal British dishes and curated wines.

4.5

The Leather Bottle

Historic 17th-century pub in Cobham offering British country food, seasonal menus, a cocktail lounge, and a large garden with events.

4.3

Best bars in Sussex

Top-rated picks

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The Victoria, Paddington

Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.

4.6

ChachaBuchi

Rustic glamour meets vibrant nightlife in Newcastle’s chic cocktail bar with live music, firepits, and eclectic dining.

3.9

Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery

A charming Lake District gastropub and brewery blending hearty British fare, craft ales, and cozy boutique stays with stunning fell views.

4.4

Gordon's Wine Bar

London’s oldest wine bar since 1890, Gordon’s offers candlelit cellar charm, award-winning wines, and artisanal fare in a historic riverside setting.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Sussex

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Phonox

Phonox: Brixton’s cutting-edge nightclub where underground electronic beats meet a vibrant, spacious dancefloor and top-tier sound.

4.3

Best shops in Sussex

Top-rated picks

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Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop

Britain's oldest wine merchant since 1698, where three centuries of royal patronage meets modern expertise.

4.6

The Blue Door

A charming clothing and hat shop on Portobello Road, blending Notting Hill’s cinematic charm with friendly service and unique fashion finds.

4.1

Unique Britain

Discover authentic British souvenirs in the heart of London’s West End on historic Cranbourn Street.

2.3

Explore Sussex on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Sussex, mapped for you.

Sussex Essentials

Sussex is well-connected and easily accessible from various parts of the United Kingdom and beyond. The nearest major airports are Gatwick Airport (approximately 30 miles north of Brighton) and Heathrow Airport (around 60 miles northwest of Brighton). From London, you can take a direct train from London Victoria or London Bridge stations to major Sussex towns such as Brighton, Eastbourne, and Hastings. The journey typically takes between 1 to 2 hours. For those driving, the M23 motorway connects London to Sussex. National Express and other coach services also provide routes to various Sussex locations.
Sussex offers a range of transportation options for travelers. The train network is extensive, with Southern Railways and Thameslink providing services to major towns and cities. Local buses operated by companies like Stagecoach and Brighton & Hove Buses are reliable and cover most areas. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available, especially in larger towns. For added flexibility, consider renting a car to explore the countryside and coastal areas. Cycling is also popular, with numerous bike rental shops and dedicated cycling routes.
The official currency in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. Contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet are also commonly used. ATMs are plentiful in urban areas, but it is advisable to carry some cash for use in rural areas or smaller towns where card acceptance may vary.
Sussex is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. Brighton and Hove are bustling cities with vibrant nightlife, but it is wise to stay in well-populated areas and avoid backstreets. Areas such as Hastings and Eastbourne have low crime rates but maintain vigilance, especially in tourist-heavy spots.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Sussex has numerous hospitals and medical facilities, including Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton and Eastbourne District General Hospital. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. The local police are helpful and approachable for any safety concerns or issues.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing. Layers are advisable due to the unpredictable British weather. Avoid overly casual attire in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches or religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't make loud phone calls or play music without headphones. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a simple 'hello'. Avoid overly familiar gestures with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Sussex Pond Pudding and fresh seafood. Don't tip excessively; a service charge is often included in the bill.
To experience Sussex like a local, visit the independent shops and cafes in The Lanes in Brighton or the historic streets of Lewes. Attend local events like the Brighton Festival or the Glyndebourne Opera Festival. Explore the South Downs National Park for breathtaking scenery and walking trails. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and happy to share recommendations. Don't miss the chance to visit traditional pubs, many of which have a rich history and serve local ales.

When is the best time to visit Sussex?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Sussex

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Sussex. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHiya
  [Hiyah]
- GoodbyeCheers
  [Cheerz]
- YesYup
  [Yup]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You're welcomeNo worries
  [No wurries]
- Thank youTa
  [Tah]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [Sorry]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [How's it goin'?]
- Fine. And you?All good, you?
  [All good, yew?]
- Do you speak English?Do you know English?
  [D'ya know English?]
- I don't understandI ain't got a clue
  [I ain't got a clew]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I have a look at the menu, please?
  [Can I 'av a look at the men-yoo, pleez?]
- I don't eat meatI’m a veggie
  [I'm a vedgee]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheerz!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up, please?
  [Can I settle up, pleez?]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Clear off!
  [Clear off!]
- Call the Police!Ring the coppers!
  [Ring the coppaz!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [Get a doc!]
- I'm lostI’m a bit lost
  [I’m a bit lost]
- I'm illI ain't well
  [I ain't well]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [Just browsin']
- How much is it?What’s the damage?
  [What's the damij?]
- That's too expensiveThat's well pricey
  [That's well pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can you knock a bit off?
  [Can ya knock a bit off?]
- What time is it?What’s the time?
  [What's the time?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [Half ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
- AfternoonArvo
  [Arvo]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where’s the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What’s the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out for me?
  [Can you point it out for me?]
- When's the next (bus)?When’s the next bus?
  [When's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)One ticket to ...
  [One ticket to ...]

History of Sussex

Sussex has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era. Archaeological finds, such as flint tools at Boxgrove, indicate some of the earliest human activities in Britain. The South Downs' chalk cliffs and rolling hills provided a rich environment for early settlers.
The Romans invaded Britain in AD 43, and Sussex was quickly absorbed into the Roman Province of Britannia. The area became known for its iron production, with settlements such as Noviomagus Reginorum (present-day Chichester) serving as important administrative and economic centers.
After the Roman withdrawal, Sussex became a kingdom of the South Saxons. The region saw the establishment of several important religious sites, including the founding of the Diocese of Selsey in the 7th century by St. Wilfrid, which later moved to Chichester.
The Battle of Hastings in 1066, near the town of Battle, was a pivotal event in English history. William the Conqueror's victory led to the Norman conquest of England, and Sussex saw significant changes in land ownership and the construction of castles such as Pevensey and Arundel.
During the medieval period, Sussex thrived with the development of market towns and ports. The Weald became a major center for iron production, contributing to the economy. Monasteries and religious houses also flourished until the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII.
Sussex played a role in the Tudor and Stuart eras, particularly during the English Civil War. Royalist and Parliamentarian forces clashed in the region, with notable skirmishes and the fortification of key towns and castles.
The advent of the Industrial Revolution brought significant changes to Sussex. The construction of railways improved connectivity, and coastal towns like Brighton emerged as popular seaside resorts, driven by the patronage of royalty and the upper classes.
Sussex's strategic location made it a focal point during World War II. The county endured bombing raids and served as a crucial base for the Allied forces. Post-war, Sussex continued to evolve, blending its rich historical heritage with modern developments.