Five top picks for activities you can do on a budget

Keeping an eye on your budget doesn’t mean missing out on fun things to do when you’re heading for West Sussex. Whether you’re travelling solo, with the kids or as a group, you’ll be sure to find something for everyone without breaking the bank.

Tilgate Park

This award-winning Green Flag park has so much to offer from stunning lakes and sunny lawns (perfect for picnics!), to miles of leafy woodland for long leisurely walks. Why not make a day of it and embark on the Tilgate Park Tree Trail and find all 30 of the best champion trees of their particular species, from China, Africa, Europe and America. Download the leaflet and activity sheet and cross them off as you go! If you’re an animal lover, there’s even a nature centre with meerkats, capybaras and lemurs (a family ticket costs around £24).

A Meerkat standing on its hind legs at Tilgate Nature Centre

A day trip to Arundel

Historic Arundel is a flourishing market town and also a popular tourist destination.

Famous for its historical buildings, including Arundel Castle and the ruins of Blackfriars, as well as the local farmers market. The castle itself can be explored at a reasonable cost, with plenty of live events taking place  throughout the spring and summer months and beautiful gardens to explore. Wandering Arundel’s cobbled streets and exploring the lakeside park offers an enchanting and enjoyable day out for everyone. The Arundel Wetland Centre makes for an exciting experience for all ages, as you learn about local wildlife within the vulnerable wetlands, take a boat safari and get up close to feed ducks and geese.

Drone image of Arundel Castle on a sunny day

The Pulborough WildArt Trail

The Pulborough WildArt Trail is a family friendly adventure taking place across the countryside and village of Pulborough. Using the app as your guide for an interactive hike, you can take part in a quiz and guided tour, all whilst spotting the wildlife sculptures hidden amongst nature.

The new WildArt Trail in Pulborough is an enchanting trail of sculptures and digital wildlife through the countryside in West Sussex

Get on your bike and explore the Downs

Cycling through idyllic countryside admiring breath-taking views is the perfect way to explore this magnificent county. You’re in easy reach of the South Downs National Park, wherever you are in West Sussex. Why not take your bikes along for the ride and embark on one of the many cycling routes available? Have a look at some route maps in West Sussex or use the cycle journey planner to choose your pace and plan a course. Not a fan of travelling on two wheels? There’s plenty of great walking routes too!

Male cyclist sitting back on bike overlooking the South Downs

South Downs Planetarium, Chichester

Experience the night sky from the comfort of South Downs Planetarium’s star theatre, and be guided through immersive, full-dome videos by an expert. Don’t miss their hands-on family fun days happening over summer!

Inside the South Downs Planetarium

Looking for further inspiration for activities that won’t cost you the earth? Check out our activities pages for a variety of ideas, from outdoor experiences to cultural encounters.

West Sussex town adventures

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