The Best East Sussex Attractions & Activities

Battle Abbey in East Sussex stands on the site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings. Founded by William the Conqueror, it features atmospheric ruins, a gatehouse, and battlefield views, bringing England’s most famous battle vividly to life.

The Bluebell Railway in Sussex is a heritage steam line running through the scenic Weald. With restored stations, vintage carriages, and classic engines, it offers a nostalgic journey through English countryside charm and railway history.

The Royal Pavilion in Brighton is a dazzling former royal palace with Indian-style domes and Chinese-inspired interiors. Built for George IV, it’s famed for its exotic architecture, lavish décor, and landscaped gardens at the heart of the city.

bringing the downland landscape & vegetation to life through a series of displays & an audio-visual show

dating back to the sixteenth century with a sympathetic extension designed by Lutyens and a stunning garden, the work of the gardening expert, Christopher Lloyd

extensive garden of varied colour, perfume and sound with winding paths, majestic trees with self led family activities

be taken on a tour of these old smuggling caves guided by Hairy Jack. He pops up all over the place to tell tales of how the excise men tried to catch smugglers & what they did when they caught them!

beautiful medieval house is part of the story of King Henry VIII and his divorce settlement with his fourth wife, Anne of Cleves. Highlights include atmospheric furnished rooms and a Tudor garden with traditional plants

Bexhill Museum on the Sussex coast features exhibits on local history, fashion and motoring heritage. Its eclectic collections and seafront setting make it an engaging stop for visitors exploring Bexhill-on-Sea.

Bodiam Castle in East Sussex is a striking 14th-century moated fortress. With its towers, battlements, and picturesque reflection in the water, it blends medieval history with fairytale charm, offering scenic grounds and family-friendly exploration.

The Brighton i360 is a 162-metre observation tower on the seafront. Its futuristic glass pod glides up to reveal panoramic views of Brighton, the South Downs, and the coastline, offering a unique modern landmark beside the historic West Pier.

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, set in the Royal Pavilion Gardens, features art, fashion, design and world cultures. Its diverse collections and vibrant displays make it a cultural highlight in the heart of the city.

Brighton Palace Pier, opened in 1899, is a classic seaside attraction stretching into the Channel. It features fairground rides, arcades, food stalls, and deckchairs, blending traditional charm with lively entertainment on the Brighton seafront.

Brighton Toy & Model Museum, beneath Brighton Station, houses over 10,000 vintage toys, model trains and tinplate treasures. It offers a nostalgic journey through childhood and toy-making history.

Sea Life Brighton, the world’s oldest operating aquarium, opened in 1872. Set in a striking Victorian arcade, it showcases marine life from local waters to tropical seas, with highlights including a glass-bottom boat and walk-through ocean tunnel.

Lewes Castle is a Norman fortress overlooking the historic town of Lewes. Climb the keep for panoramic views across the South Downs, explore centuries of history, and visit the museum to discover Sussex’s rich medieval past.

Battle Museum of Local History, in the East Sussex town of Battle, explores heritage from prehistoric finds to the world wars. Highlights include artefacts from the Battle of Hastings site and displays on local crafts and culture.

Brighton Fishing Museum celebrates the city’s maritime past with boats, photographs and fishermen’s tales. Set on the seafront, it offers an engaging look at Brighton’s coastal heritage and seafaring traditions.