Eleven things to do in West Sussex

Sussex Day falls on 16 June! It’s the perfect time to come and visit our outstanding county and celebrate all things Sussex with friends and family.

West Sussex is home to some of the country’s most incredible beaches, gardens, activity destinations and heritage sites, making our slice of the south a fantastic place to explore!

We’ve put together a list of fantastic, family-friendly ideas for you to do throughout West Sussex.

Why not visit a museum or gallery, explore the great outdoors, or get up close with nature, we’ve got something for everyone to enjoy.

Bus at Amberley Museum

1. Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre

Discovering the industrial heritage of West Sussex has never been easier. This interactive experience is definitely worth setting a day aside for. Learn about transport, industry, communications and craft all the while taking in some fantastic views on the nature trails set on this spectacular 36-acre site. A small 15-minute car journey from Arundel and Pulborough train stations, this is not a day out to be missed and certainly an ideal day to bask in the West Sussex sunshine.

Owl at Huxleys

2. Huxley’s Birds of Prey Centre and Gardens

With impressive gardens and a number of breath-taking birds of prey to get up close to, this is a sure winner for a day out with the family. Learning about the birds, the centre’s conservation efforts and exploring the incredible array of blooms is a fantastic way to spend Sussex Day.

Walks on Worthing seafront

3. Worthing, Seaside Destination

As one of the largest seaside towns on the South Coast and a competitor for the biggest West Sussex seaside town, Worthing is the ideal destination to celebrate Sussex,  all year round. With an award-winning pier, an observation wheel and a quintessential English seaside holiday feel, there is plenty to see and do at the seaside and around the town.

view of the restaurant at Bolney Estate

4. Bolney Wine Estate

Nestled on the cusp of the South Downs; a short drive inland from the seaside, the unique Bolney Wine Estate is on a mission to produce the very best artisanal wines. Enjoy a tutored tasting or winery walkthrough with a delicious meal from the Eighteen Acre Café. If you plan on spending your day in style, there is no better place than with the pioneers of English wine.

Visitors on a walking tour of Arundel

5. Arundel Walking Tours

A perfect presentation of history and heritage, Arundel Walking Tours cover a plethora of country pursuits, cobbled streets and the infamous Arundel Castle. Rich in culture, antique shops and quaint cafes, this tranquil spot makes for a fantastic day out.

Outside view of Bailiffscourt spa at night

6. West Sussex Spas

Built on 30 acres of private parkland, Bailiffscourt Hotel and Spa welcomes guests to a sleek country escape near Climping beach. Taking inspiration from nature, the spa experience offers a peaceful retreat to relax and rejuvenate, the ideal escape for those looking to wind down.

People on SUP boards on the safari adventure from Cave Active

7. Cave Active

Chichester Harbours very own SUP Safari. Looking for an active way to spend your day? Whether you’re a beginner to SUP or a watersports expert, you can explore the South Downs National Park from the River Arun by paddleboard. With trips and tours taking place daily, make sure to book your space ahead of time.

Flowers in blossom at Sussex Prairie Gardens

8. Glorious Gardens

A stone’s throw from Henfield, Sussex Prairie Gardens boasts a celebrated eight acres of exquisite naturalistic gardens, connected by a network of paths to encourage exploration of the grounds. Join for a garden tour and bask in the Sussex summer sunshine.

Meerkat at Tilgate Nature Centre

9. Tilgate Nature Centre

This popular Crawley destination is a perfect affordable family day out, housing 100s of species of animals, from otters and owls to reindeer and ravens, there is something for everyone. The neighbouring Tilgate Forest is also perfect for a walk, ride or cycle and is home to a fantastic Go Ape course.

The interior of Shoreham Art Gallery showing pictures, crafts and objects

10. Shoreham Art Gallery

Run by professional artists, this gallery hosts several world-renowned pieces and their creators. Packed to the brim with art, culture, and creatives, this small but mighty gallery is the hub for all things crafts with walk-ins welcome and one-off workshops, you don’t want to miss out on exploring your creative side.

View of Petworth House

11. Petworth House and Park

Based on 700-acre grounds this extensive park and property is well known for being home to hundreds of fallow deer and a 1,000-year-old oak tree. This property and its glorious grounds give escape to the country a new meaning.

Some special events to look out for  

The Artisan Bakehouse – Internationally renowned baker and author, Emmanuel Hadjiandreou, demonstrates the skills and techniques to recreate perfect pastry and sourdough with a number of special workshops available to book over summer.

Sparkling Sussex Bike Tour – Enjoy the best of West Sussex this Sussex Day, and the wonderful wines produced with a carefully curated itinerary taking in local landmarks and vineyards.