The Best Cities, Towns & Villages in East Sussex

Brighton blends quirky charm with seaside style. Explore the iconic Pier, wander The Lanes’ indie shops, and admire the exotic Royal Pavilion. With pebbled beaches, vibrant nightlife, and creative spirit, it’s the south coast’s coolest coastal escape.

Framed by the South Downs and the English Channel, Eastbourne is known for its Victorian seafront, pier and nearby chalk cliffs at Beachy Head. It offers beaches, gardens and coastal walks in a relaxed seaside setting.

With its cobbled lanes and medieval charm, Rye is known for historic inns, timber-framed buildings and views across the Romney Marsh. Its galleries, cafés and coastal setting make it one of Sussex’s most picturesque towns.

Famous for the 1066 Battle of Hastings, Battle is a historic market town centred around Battle Abbey and its battlefield. Surrounded by rolling countryside, it combines medieval heritage with independent shops, cafés and walking trails.

Set on the Sussex coast, Bexhill-on-Sea is known for its seafront promenade, relaxed atmosphere and modernist De La Warr Pavilion. The town combines beaches, cultural events and coastal walks with traditional seaside charm.

Known for its historic old town and creative seaside atmosphere, Hastings blends medieval streets, beaches and fishing heritage with galleries, cafés and coastal walks along the Sussex shore.

Nestled in the South Downs, Alfriston is a picturesque village known for its historic inns, medieval church and scenic countryside walks. Its cosy atmosphere, independent shops and nearby coastline make it a popular rural retreat.

Set beneath the South Downs, Lewes is a historic market town known for its castle, independent shops and vibrant cultural scene. Its cobbled streets, riverside setting and annual bonfire celebrations give it a distinctive character.

Located at the mouth of the River Ouse, Newhaven is a working port town known for its ferry links, coastal views and nearby nature reserves. It offers easy access to the South Downs and the Sussex coastline.

Known for its creative atmosphere and seafront setting, St Leonards-on-Sea blends Victorian architecture, independent shops and galleries with beaches, cafés and a relaxed coastal lifestyle beside neighbouring Hastings.

Surrounded by the Ashdown Forest, Forest Row is a village known for its independent cafés, woodland walks and relaxed atmosphere. Its countryside setting and creative community make it a peaceful South East escape.

Set in the East Sussex countryside, Hailsham is a traditional market town with historic streets, local markets and easy access to the South Downs and nearby coast. It offers a relaxed base for exploring the surrounding area.

Set at the edge of the South Downs, Polegate is a small town known for its countryside surroundings and easy access to Beachy Head, Eastbourne and scenic walking routes. It offers a quieter base for exploring the Sussex coast and hills.

Surrounded by the East Sussex countryside, Uckfield is a market town known for its independent shops, riverside walks and easy access to the South Downs and Ashdown Forest. It offers a relaxed base within reach of London and the coast.

Set in the High Weald countryside, Wadhurst is a historic village known for its traditional high street, nearby vineyards and scenic walking routes. Its rural setting and period character make it a peaceful Sussex retreat.