The West Sussex independent gift guide

As a county that spans the coast, countryside and South Downs National Park, West Sussex is home to many unique crafts and traditions that have stood the test of time. From the town in which gingerbread originates and heaps of locally made produce, to bespoke pieces from the local art scene, you’ll find fantastic souvenirs from your trip that will make the perfect gift for friends and family.

We’ve listed our must-have independent gift ideas from around the county.     

 

For the art lovers

Visit East Beach, the artist quarter of Worthing, and tour the parade of artist’s studios to find a unique gift for your friends and family. You’ll find a variety of artisan creations from paintings, sculptures and drawings to jewellery, ceramics and clothing you won’t find anywhere else! If art gallery exploration is up your street, why not check out Rowlands Road too, for several galleries and antique boutiques.

Take a trip to the village of Cuckfield and browse some of the quirky independent boutiques. You’ll find the perfect gift for the interiors aficionado in your life with unique homewares from Willis & Co. and Tigers to Lilies.

 

For the foodies

West Sussex is home to the world-renowned Nyetimber.  With some of England’s finest sparkling wines available, their carefully curated collections are perfect for any occasion. Stop in at The Queens Head for craft ales and a menu bursting with hearty homemade dishes.

If you’re planning on visiting Horsham this festive season, a trip to the market town simply cannot be complete without visiting the Horsham Museum or a local farm shop to take home a little bit of the town’s history with its award-winning gingerbread. Almost a century after the original recipe was lost, friends of the museum painstakingly restored it to keep the centuries-old tradition alive – this is a gift not to be missed.

Wickwoods Spa

Wickwoods Spa

Vintage cars about to start a race at Goodwood Revival

Goodwood Estate

For the sporty

Is a member of your family crazy for all things cars, driving and motorsports? Head to the Goodwood Estate near Chichester and peruse the exclusive gifts available to celebrate the renowned racing grounds. Packed full of adrenaline and ready to go, there are several experiences available.

West Sussex is a treasure trove of experiences for keen cyclists, with plenty of specialist bike shops nestled into the South Downs. At Experience West Sussex we’re big fans of Quest Adventure in Worthing, here you’ll be sure to find gifts to suit any cycling fanatic, including books, accessories and clothing.

 

For those in need of pampering

Whether it’s indulgent spa treatments or nourishing products from independent makers, West Sussex has much to offer those who enjoy a more luxurious experience. If you’re looking to really treat someone special, why not gift a restorative spa experience? Wickwoods Country Club Spa in Hassocks provides exclusive packages with a two-course lunch in the adjoining Glass House restaurant, whilst Midhurst’s Park House Hotel offers tranquil packages with breakfast or afternoon tea.

For the homebody, bring tranquillity into their home with a luxuriously scented handmade soy candle from Anna Swan Candles. You’ll find these at various craft markets around the Worthing and Haywards Heath areas throughout November.

 

Don’t forget, you can also find out what’s on around West Sussex over the weeks running up to Christmas for more opportunities to find a truly unique gift or experience for your loved ones.

Think we’ve missed anything from the list? Share your must-have West Sussex gifts with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram – plus, you can join in the conversation by using the hashtag #ExperienceWestSussex.

West Sussex gifts for friends and family

Find the perfect gift, from spa breaks and West Sussex sparkling wine, to gift vouchers and attraction tickets, browse our range of gifts and help support our local, independent businesses on Shop Sussex.