Brilliant low-cost attractions in West Sussex

On a budget? No problem. We’ve put together some ideas on free and low cost activities to help you make the most of your time whilst exploring the county!

Bishops Palace

Chichester Festival Theatre, Chichester – explore the Festival Theatre with a 60-minute tour that includes a visit backstage, brief history of the building and a chance to see this feat of modernist design up close and personal. A must-see for all architecture and theatre fans. Combine your visit with a walk around the beautiful Bishop’s Palace Gardens, one of Chichester’s hidden gem’s and the perfect spot for a picnic!

cinema seating

Dome Cinema, Worthing – a stunning Edwardian cinema that first opened in 1911. It has been lovingly restored to its former glory and going there is like stepping back in time. Watch a film (tickets are between £5.00 – £6.70), live-streamed opera or theatre performance in the wonderfully ornate screening room.

A crowd of people at Horsham's big nibble

Farmer’s Market, Horsham – eat your way around West Sussex every Thursday and Saturday at The Carfax, Horsham. This delightful market has street food, live music, pop up bars and local produce from some of the best food producers in the region. You certainly won’t go home hungry.

The pond at West Dean Gardens

West Dean Gardens & College, West Dean – this is a beautiful place for a stop-off and a great spot to while away an afternoon and surround yourself with art and culture. The gardens are stunning and West Dean College offers a range of low-cost Summer Schools in visual arts and crafts.

Celebrations at the Arundel Festival in West Sussex

Arundel Festival, Arundel – running from 19-29th August, this multi-arts festival attracts crowds from all over the UK and has been doing so for 44 years! The whole town comes alive with street entertainers, music, food, theatre, art and dancing. Don’t miss the Dragon Boat race on the River Arun, as competitors fight it out to be crowned the champion.

Bignor Roman Villa mosaic floor

Bignor Roman Villa is home to the UK’s most complete and ornate collection of mosaic floors. Discover the world-class collection and let them transport you back to Roman times, as you imagine life in a luxurious Roman villa.

Vineyard Tours – West Sussex is becoming a leader in producing world class wines and it’s worth a trip to the region to experience the fizz alone. Take a tour of the Bolney, Tinwood or Albourne vineyards and snap the stunning Sussex countryside as you go, sipping on some of the UK’s finest sparkling wine. You can also stay in the luxury lodges on the Tinwood Estate.

Brightly coloured beach hut doors of The East Beach Studios in Worthing

Worthing’s Art Trail – As well as the yearly Worthing Artists Open Houses event which sees over 50 venues throw open their doors to the general public over summer,  this quintessential seaside town is home to numerous independent exhibitions, each with their own unique immersive experiences. Colonnade HouseEast Beach StudiosTwo Faced Twins and West End Gallery and Studios are just a few of the galleries showcasing fantastic local artistry.

Walkers pointing to map on South Downs walk

South Downs National Park – Feeling active? Hike or ride on the South Downs Way National Trail for stunning scenery, the freshest air, and popular landmarks such as Chanctonbury Ring and Devil’s Dyke.

Children in front of a stately home

Petworth House – there’s nothing quite like walking through the grounds of Petworth House and Deer Park to make you appreciate the real beauty of West Sussex. Explore the grand 700-acre estate, deer park and gardens landscaped by ‘Capability’ Brown then peruse priceless works of art by Turner and Van Dyck.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our top activities you can do on a budget!

Surfer walking home on Seaford Head

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