With a diverse selection of superb cultural attractions, amazing architecture, fantastic natural landscapes and kid-friendly places to visit in East Sussex, anyone planning a holiday here won’t be stuck for things to do. We highlight some of the best places to visit in East Sussex that will entertain families, nature lovers and art lovers alike.

Charleston

The charming Charleston House was the meeting place for the Bloomsbury group, a collection of writers, intellectuals and painters which included Virginia Woolf, John Maynard Keynes, E. M. Forster and Lytton Strachey. The house, which contains a number of art pieces, and the surrounding garden can both be explored and are sure to delight with their respective creative and natural beauty.

Seven Sisters Country Park

Visitors who are looking for lovely landscapes to explore won’t be disappointed with a day out in the Seven Sisters Country Park. The park is located within the South Downs National Park and encompasses valleys, grassland and the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs on the coast which provide breath-taking views. The park is a fantastic location for a variety of outdoor activities including walking, cycling and canoeing. It is also a good place for birdwatchers to see a large array of birds such as geese, sparrows, herons and kestrels to name but a few.

The Royal Pavilion

People seeking awe-inspiring architecture will find it hard not to be impressed by the Royal Pavilion in Brighton. The building served as a pleasure palace for King George IV and there are a number of rooms to explore that will dazzle with their display of opulence. The Royal Pavilion contains luxurious furnishings and wonderful examples of the Chinoiserie style of interior décor that King George IV admired.

Bodiam Castle

The grand Bodiam Castle near Robertsbridge boasts a picturesque location surrounded by a moat. The castle still contains its original wooden portcullis and visitors who wander around the interior ruins and explore the grounds of this 14th century castle will find it easy to imagine days of old. In addition to discovering the castle and grounds, there are also entertaining seasonal events that take place here throughout the year.

Glyndebourne

For those seeking creative cultural diversions in East Sussex, Glyndebourne near Lewes is an excellent choice. The award winning opera house stands next to the stunning Glyndebourne House, and the surrounding gardens and landscape are worth a visit alone. An annual festival is held at the opera house and a tour takes place each yearto showcase the excellent operatic productions. The opera house hosts many other events for children and adults all year round, so visitors of all ages can enjoy the performing arts.

Middle Farm

Friendly farm animals and the opportunity to try delicious ciders and tasty meals make Middle Farm near Lewes a great day out for all the family. Kids will love the opportunity to interact with a variety of animals including rabbits, sheep, guinea pigs and horses and there are also two playgrounds and a play barn for children to burn off some energy while the adults can relax. If energy levels need a boost, the farm’s restaurant is a handy place to tuck into some mouth-watering meals and scrumptious snacks.

Drusillas Park

Drusillas Park is a small zoo situated near Alfriston which is widely considered the best of its kind in the UK. There is no shortage of animal antics and amazing attractions to ensure a wild day out for youngsters and adults alike. In addition to the wide variety of animals that can be seen as well as the opportunity to get up close to the likes of lemurs, lorikeets and bats there are also a number of themed play areas. For even more entertainment there are seasonal events that take place at Drusillas each year, so this small zoo really does offer a huge amount of fun.

So much to see and do that one trip just won’t suffice

It can be tricky choosing a holiday destination that offers something for everyone, whether travelling as a family or with friends. However, East Sussex has so much to offer adults and children that visitors will find one holiday here just isn’t enough so don’t be surprised if repeat holidays are soon to follow!

Glampers can choose from a yurt at Freshwinds Camping near Hastings, a superb treehouse at Blackberry Wood in Ditchling, a beautifully furnished bell tent at Bluecaps Farm Glamping at Wadhusrt, or a luxury safari tent at Concierge Camping in Chichester.

This guide was last updated on November 17, 2016
Ask us a question

7 superb places to visit in East Sussex
Download the Ultimate Camping Checklist

Download our list of everything of you need to remember for the perfect camping trip!

Download
Places To Visit

In the UK, you don't have to travel far to see some amazing sights.

We're lucky enough to have world-besting landscapes, history and wildlife right on our doorstep.

Where will you explore next?

Explore Destinations