Shoreham-by-Sea Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, what to buy, and more in Shoreham-by-Sea. Plan your trip now!


Introduction to Shoreham-by-Sea

Located in West Sussex, in the South East region of England, Shoreham-by-Sea is a delightful town nestled between the South Downs and the sea. Its unique location offers visitors an opportunity to experience both natural beauty and cultural attractions. With a rich history dating back to the Roman era, Shoreham-by-Sea is a perfect destination for history buffs and nature enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Shoreham-by-Sea

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums, Churches, and Historical Places

  • Shoreham Aircraft Museum: This museum displays the history of aviation in Shoreham-by-Sea, with particular emphasis on the town’s role in both world wars.
  • St. Mary de Haura Church: Built in the 12th century, this church is a beautiful example of Norman architecture.
  • Shoreham Fort: This Victorian-era fort is a fascinating historical site that offers a glimpse into the town’s past.

Natural Attractions of Shoreham-by-Sea: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shoreham Beach: With its pebble beach and clear waters, Shoreham Beach is one of the town’s most popular attractions.
  • South Downs National Park: This national park is located just a few miles from Shoreham-by-Sea and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
  • River Adur: A perfect destination for kayaking and canoeing, the River Adur is also great for fishing and bird-watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shoreham-by-Sea

The Adur Estuary Walk

This easy 4-mile walk takes you along the banks of the River Adur and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The South Downs Way

This 100-mile trail starts in Winchester and ends in Eastbourne. The section of the trail that passes through Shoreham-by-Sea offers stunning views of the sea and the countryside.

Best Things to Do in Shoreham-by-Sea: Activities and Tours

  • Shoreham Port Tours: This 2-hour tour takes you behind the scenes of the port and provides an insight into the workings of one of Britain’s busiest ports.
  • Adur Art Trail: This annual event showcases the work of local artists and provides a unique opportunity to meet the artists and buy their work directly.
  • Marlipins Museum: This museum houses a collection of artifacts that tell the story of Shoreham’s past.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shoreham-by-Sea

Day 1 Visit St. Mary de Haura Church and take a walk along the River Adur
Day 2 Go for a hike on the South Downs Way
Day 3 Visit Shoreham Fort and the Shoreham Aircraft Museum
Day 4 Spend the day on Shoreham Beach
Day 5 Take a tour of the Shoreham Port
Day 6 Visit the Marlipins Museum and go for a bike ride along the coast
Day 7 Attend the Adur Art Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Shoreham-by-Sea

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish and chips: This classic British dish is available at many of the town’s seafood restaurants.
  • Sussex Trug: This salad features locally grown vegetables, including lettuce, radishes, and potatoes.
  • Beef and Ale Pie: Another British classic, this hearty pie is available at many of the town’s traditional pubs.

Local Beverages

  • Harveys Brewery: This brewery has been producing beer in nearby Lewes for over 200 years and is well-known throughout Sussex.
  • Ridgeview Wine Estate: This award-winning vineyard produces some of the best English sparkling wine.

Where to Stay in Shoreham-by-Sea: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Beachcroft Hotel: This 3-star hotel is located just a few minutes’ walk from Shoreham Beach and offers comfortable accommodation at an affordable price.
  • The Crown and Anchor: This traditional pub also offers comfortable guest rooms at reasonable prices.
  • The Old School House Guesthouse: This stylish guesthouse is located in a beautifully restored Victorian school building and offers a unique and memorable stay.

What to Buy in Shoreham-by-Sea: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Shoreham Beach Pebbles: These smooth, round stones make for a unique souvenir or gift.
  • Sussex Trugs: Made from locally grown willow, these traditional baskets are a must-have for any garden enthusiast.
  • Harveys Brewery Beer: Bring a taste of Sussex home with you by picking up some beer from the Harveys Brewery.

Local Culture and Customs of Shoreham-by-Sea

  • Music and Arts Festivals: Shoreham-by-Sea hosts several music and arts festivals throughout the year, including the Shoreham Wordfest, the Adur Festival, and the Shoreham-by-Sea Airshow.
  • Sussex Bonfire Celebrations: This traditional Sussex event takes place every November and involves bonfires and fireworks displays in towns and villages throughout the county.

Best Time to Visit Shoreham-by-Sea

The best time to visit Shoreham-by-Sea is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town also has a lot to offer during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) when the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shoreham-by-Sea

Do:

  • Do explore the natural beauty of the town by taking a walk along the River Adur or hiking the South Downs Way.
  • Do attend one of the town’s music or arts festivals.
  • Do try some of the local food and drink, including Sussex Trugs, Harveys Brewery Beer, and beef and ale pie.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter on the beach or in the countryside.
  • Don’t forget to dress appropriately for the weather, especially if you’re planning to spend time outdoors.
  • Don’t miss out on some of the town’s unique and memorable experiences, such as the Shoreham Port Tours or the Sussex Bonfire Celebrations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shoreham-by-Sea

Shoreham-by-Sea is a safe town with low levels of crime. However, as with any tourist destination, visitors are advised to take precautions against pickpocketing and petty theft. Visitors should also be aware of the risks of swimming in the sea, which can be dangerous due to strong currents and tides.

Health in Shoreham-by-Sea

Shoreham-by-Sea has a range of medical facilities, including a hospital and several pharmacies. Visitors are advised to take out travel insurance before their trip.

Getting to Shoreham-by-Sea: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Shoreham-by-Sea

The nearest airports to Shoreham-by-Sea are London Gatwick Airport (approximately 30 miles away) and London Heathrow Airport (approximately 60 miles away).

Bus Stations Near Shoreham-by-Sea

Shoreham-by-Sea has a bus station with regular services to Brighton and other nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Shoreham-by-Sea by train, with regular services from London Victoria, Brighton, and other nearby towns and cities.

How to Get Around in Shoreham-by-Sea

Shoreham-by-Sea is a small town and can easily be explored on foot or by bike. There are also regular bus services to other nearby towns and cities.

Where to Go Next from Shoreham-by-Sea: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Brighton: This vibrant coastal town is just a short bus or train ride away from Shoreham-by-Sea and is known for its nightlife and attractions such as the Royal Pavilion and Brighton Pier.
  • Chichester: This historic cathedral city is located just a few miles north of Shoreham-by-Sea and is home to the famous Chichester Festival Theatre.
  • The South Downs: Extending over 260 square miles, the South Downs is a stunning natural landscape that offers a range of activities, including hiking, cycling, and horse-riding.

Conclusion

Shoreham-by-Sea is a charming town that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. With its rich history, stunning countryside, and variety of activities, Shoreham-by-Sea is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. Plan your trip now and discover all that this wonderful town has to offer.

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