East Sussex Travel Guide

Plan your trip to the beautiful region of East Sussex with this comprehensive travel guide, covering everything from popular attractions to transportation options.


East Sussex is a beautiful county located in the South East part of England. It is known for its stunning landscapes, beautiful coastlines, rich history, and fascinating attractions. If you are planning to visit the region, this comprehensive guide to East Sussex will help you with everything you need to know.

Introduction to East Sussex

East Sussex is a county in South East England, bordering Kent, West Sussex, and the English Channel. Historically known as the “Gateway to Europe,” East Sussex is a popular tourist destination, known for its rich history, beautiful countryside, and vibrant cities. The county has a lot to offer, from hiking trails to sandy beaches, from historic castles to modern art galleries, and from buzzing nightlife to traditional English pubs.

List of Places to Visit in East Sussex

East Sussex is home to many attractions, so here is a list of some of the most popular ones:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hastings Museum and Art Gallery
  • Anne of Cleves’ House in Lewes
  • Battle Abbey and Battlefield
  • Bodiam Castle
  • Rye Heritage Centre
  • Charleston House in Firle
  • Bateman’s in Burwash
  • The Observatory Science Centre in Hailsham

Natural Attractions of East Sussex: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Beachy Head
  • Seven Sisters Country Park
  • Birling Gap
  • Cuckmere Haven
  • Devil’s Dyke
  • South Downs National Park
  • Sheffield Park and Garden
  • Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Sussex

East Sussex offers a great variety of hiking and biking trails for all levels. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • South Downs Way
  • Cuckoo Trail
  • Beachy Head
  • Seaford Head
  • Hastings Country Park
  • Bedgebury Pinetum

Best Things to Do in East Sussex: Activities and Tours

  • Enjoy a day at the beach in Brighton
  • Explore the ancient town of Rye
  • Visit the historic town of Battle
  • Take a ride on the Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway
  • Visit the Hastings Fisherman’s Museum
  • Enjoy the view from the top of the British Airways i360
  • Go wine-tasting in the vineyards of East Sussex
  • Take a ghost tour in Lewes

Week-Long Itinerary for East Sussex

If you have a week to explore East Sussex, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Brighton
Day 2 Visit the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head
Day 3 Discover Hastings
Day 4 Explore Rye and Bodiam Castle
Day 5 Visit Eastbourne and Beachy Head
Day 6 Discover the South Downs National Park
Day 7 Relax in Lewes and Charleston House

Food and Drink Scene of East Sussex

East Sussex is known for its fantastic food and drink, featuring fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Make sure to try these must-try dishes and local beverages during your visit:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sussex Smokie
  • Fish and Chips
  • Shepherd’s Pie
  • Sticky Toffee Pudding
  • Black Pudding

Local Beverages

  • Harvey’s Brewery
  • Red Rooster Coffee
  • Blackdown Distillery Gin
  • Custom House Alcoholic Ginger Beer
  • Carr Taylor Vineyards Wine

Where to Stay in East Sussex: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

East Sussex offers accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses, here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Grand Hotel in Brighton
  • The Deans Place Hotel in Alfriston
  • Langham Hotel in Eastbourne
  • The George in Rye
  • The Royal Albion Hotel in Brighton
  • The White Hart Inn in Lewes
  • The New Inn in Hurstpierpoint

What to Buy in East Sussex: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

East Sussex has a range of authentic local shops and markets to explore. Here are some items you should buy to bring a piece of East Sussex back home:

  • Pottery from Lewes
  • Stationery from Papersmiths in Brighton
  • Wine from Carr Taylor Vineyards
  • Tea from Bluebird Tea Company in Brighton
  • Sussex Charmer cheese

Local Culture and Customs of East Sussex

East Sussex has a rich cultural history that can be seen in its architecture, customs, and traditions. The people of East Sussex are known for their warm hospitality, and it is common to exchange pleasantries when meeting new people.

Best Time to Visit East Sussex

East Sussex has something to offer all year round. However, the best time to visit is during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and there are many outdoor events.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Sussex

Do:

  • Try local food and drink
  • Explore the region’s natural beauty
  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Take part in the region’s cultural activities

Don’t:

  • Litter
  • Disturb the wildlife
  • Show disrespect for local people or customs

Safety and Health

Safety in East Sussex

East Sussex is generally a safe place to visit. However, visitors should take basic precautions, such as carrying valuables safely and not leaving them in unattended cars.

Health in East Sussex

UK nationals can access free healthcare under the National Health Service. Visitors from other countries should ensure that they have travel health insurance before traveling to East Sussex.

Getting to East Sussex: Transportation Options and Logistics

East Sussex is easily accessible from London and the surrounding areas. Here are the different transportation options available:

Airports Near East Sussex

  • Gatwick Airport
  • Heathrow Airport

Bus Stations Near East Sussex

  • Sussex Bus
  • Stagecoach

Other Options

  • Train services from London Victoria, London Charing Cross, and others
  • Taxis and private transport services

How to Get Around in East Sussex

East Sussex has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trains, taxis, and rental cars. Buses are the best option for exploring local areas, while trains are ideal for intercity travel.

Where to Go Next from East Sussex: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

East Sussex is surrounded by other beautiful destinations, including Kent, Surrey, and Hampshire. Here are some nearby destinations to visit:

  • Canterbury in Kent
  • Portsmouth in Hampshire
  • Surrey Hills in Surrey

Conclusion

East Sussex is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to England. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, East Sussex has something to offer. This comprehensive guide should help you plan the perfect trip and make the most of your visit to this beautiful county.

Seven Sisters and Cuckmere Haven Seven Sisters and Cuckmere Haven Hastings rooftops Hastings rooftops Lewes Castle, Lewes Lewes Castle, Lewes The Flamboyant Royal Pavilion, Brighton The Flamboyant Royal Pavilion, Brighton The Royal Military Canal The Royal Military Canal The Seven Sisters Ferry, leaving Newhaven The Seven Sisters Ferry, leaving Newhaven Lewes Station and Southern trains Lewes Station and Southern trains Hastings Country Park Hastings Country Park On the Forest Way On the Forest Way The Imposing fortress of Bodiam Castle The Imposing fortress of Bodiam Castle Drusilla's Park is noted for its cute residents - not what you might expect in deepest Sussex! Drusilla's Park is noted for its cute residents - not what you might expect in deepest Sussex! Batemans on a cold winter's morning Batemans on a cold winter's morning Rye on a rainy afternoon Rye on a rainy afternoon The Beautiful Seven Sisters, near Cuckmere Haven The Beautiful Seven Sisters, near Cuckmere Haven Brighton Pier - Eastbourne, Hastings and St Leonard's have piers too Brighton Pier - Eastbourne, Hastings and St Leonard's have piers too Harveys Brewery, Lewes Harveys Brewery, Lewes Line of Quality Seaside Hotels in Eastbourne Line of Quality Seaside Hotels in Eastbourne A Market during the Brighton Festival A Market during the Brighton Festival Long Man of Wilmington, on the route of the South Downs Way Long Man of Wilmington, on the route of the South Downs Way


    Ashdown Forest
    Battle
    Brighton
    Ditchling
    Hailsham
    Mayfield
    Newhaven
    Seaford
    Uckfield
    Wadhurst