Unusual Things To Do In West Sussex (Our 50 Top Picks)

Welcome to the charming realm of West Sussex, a land brimming with enchanting landscapes, historical treasures, and cultural wonders. You might have heard of its famous attractions, like the majestic Arundel Castle or the serene South Downs National Park. But what if we told you there’s so much more waiting to be discovered?

Venturing Beyond the Beaten Path in West Sussex

Sussex is home to some of the most beautiful homes and it helps with stunning wildlife.

Let’s embark on a journey beyond the typical tourist spots, diving deep into the hidden corners of West Sussex. We’re talking about places shrouded in mystery, activities that make you go "Wow, I never thought of doing that!", and experiences that leave you with stories that none of your friends have. Intrigued? We bet you are!

In this guide, we’ll unveil 50 unusual activities that will let you see West Sussex in a whole new light. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or someone just looking for a bit of fun, we’ve got something for everyone. So, grab your explorer hat, and let’s uncover the secret gems of West Sussex together!

A Glimpse into the Past: Historical Gems of West Sussex

Just like Brighton's old and ruined West Pier, Sussex in its mass has so much to explore and love

1. Tide Mills Village Ruins

Once a thriving Mill, the Tide Mills offer just a glimpse of what East Sussex used to be like, and even better, it’s FREE.

Location: Near Newhaven, East Sussex

Entry: Free

Tide Mills is a ghost village with a rich tapestry of history waiting to be discovered. The ruins whisper tales of the past, allowing visitors to step back in time and imagine the once-thriving milling community. It’s a place where history and nature intertwine, offering a serene exploration experience.

2. King George IV Brighton Pavilion Tunnels

How COOL is this, imagine getting tired of a party and silently escaping, I like that idea!

Location: Royal Pavilion Gardens, Brighton, BN1 1EE

Discover the secret labyrinth beneath the illustrious Brighton Pavilion, where King George IV once wandered to visit his beloved horses. The tunnels reveal the clandestine activities of royalty, adding a layer of mystery to the already fascinating history of the Pavilion.

3. Knepp Castle

Now it may not look like much, but it is right next to the STUNNING estate, and also, I love old ruins like this. Who lived here, who worked here? Broken castles are my thing!

Location: Near West Grinstead, Horsham, RH13 8LW

Knepp Castle, a 12th-century relic, stands as a testament to Norman architecture and the influential de Braose family. Once a hunting lodge and a fortified retreat, the castle now invites explorers to unearth its royal connections and architectural transformations.

4. Nore Folly

Just like Knepp Castle, there’s just a few pieces of this unusual historical sites that still stand strong, no matter the weather, and I recommend it!

Location: Slindon Estate, near Slindon Village, West Sussex

Entry: Free

Nore Folly, a mysterious stone gateway on the Slindon Estate, beckons the curious to explore its surroundings and enjoy panoramic views of landmarks like Chichester Cathedral and Portsmouth Spinnaker Tower. It’s a place of beauty and intrigue, where every stone has a story to tell.

5. Kingley Vale

Now for nature lovers and the hikers this is for you!! Walk through fields and fields, and forests and woods, and let nature take your heart!

Location: Near Chichester, West Sussex

Kingley Vale offers a journey through ancient landscapes, where some of Britain’s oldest living organisms, the iconic yew trees, stand tall. The trail provides breathtaking views and a connection to the natural world, making it a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike.

6. Racton Ruin

So I won’t go into this ruin as I heard it's haunted, but it’s nice from the outside!

Location: Racton, near Chichester, West Sussex

Racton Monument, or Racton Ruin, is a hauntingly beautiful folly overlooking Chichester and the Isle of Wight. Known for its paranormal activity and historical significance, it offers a glimpse into the 18th-century architectural style and the tales of its creation and partial demolition.

7. Fishbourne Roman Palace

Like, the fact that it’s still here, and in great condition, I genuinely think we need to go back to this style, and no modern builds!

Location: Roman Way, Fishbourne, Chichester, PO19 3QR

Fishbourne Roman Palace is a hidden jewel where the remnants of the Roman era come alive. It’s a place to witness the grandeur of Roman architecture and gardens, and to marvel at the exquisite mosaics, making it a treasure trove for history buffs and curious minds.

8. Bramber Castle

YES, another castle, and a broken one at that, it’s just so interesting how many castles and hidden pieces of history Sussex really holds, and how cool it is!

Location: Bramber, Steyning, BN44 3WE

Entry: Free

Bramber Castle, a Norman masterpiece, stands as a silent guardian of the River Adur. The ruins narrate tales of aristocratic control, royal occupancy, and architectural decay, inviting explorers to reflect on the passage of time and the transient nature of power.

9. Weald and Downland Living Museum

Travel back in time, with this amazing immersive experience, learn how people dressed, talk and learn all the history of people living in Sussex in history!)

Location: Singleton, Chichester, PO18 0EU

The Weald and Downland Living Museum is a living history experience, where rescued rural homes and buildings tell the stories of the people who lived in south-east England over a millennium ago. It’s a journey through time, culture, and the beautiful landscapes of Chichester.

10. Ouse Valley Viaduct

I took this!! It’s stunning, huge and just amazing

Location: Near Haywards Heath, West Sussex

The Ouse Valley Viaduct is an architectural marvel and a hidden gem in the Sussex countryside. It’s a place where engineering and nature coexist, offering stunning views and photographic opportunities, making it a must-visit for those seeking beauty in unexpected places.

11. Lamb House

YES! I love National Trust properties, they hold what our country once was, and how its changed, I highly recommend this, I know it’s more mainstream, but please do go!

Location: West Street, Rye, East Sussex, TN31 7ES

Lamb House, a National Trust property in Rye, was the home of novelist Henry James. It’s a place where literature and history merge, allowing visitors to explore the tranquil gardens and imagine the literary masterpieces that were penned within its walls.

12. Monk's House

A walk through time!

Location: Rodmell, Lewes, BN7 3HF

Monk’s House is a 16th-century cottage where Virginia Woolf wrote her celebrated novels. The house and its enchanting garden offer a glimpse into the lives of Virginia and Leonard Woolf, making it a pilgrimage site for literature lovers and those seeking peaceful reflection.

13. Camber Castle

This is my last broken castle, I promise

Location: Near Rye, East Sussex

Entry: Exterior viewable at any time, interior by guided tour only.

Camber Castle, built by Henry VIII, stands as a reminder of the defensive architecture of the Tudor era. The castle invites explorers to delve into its history, learn about its construction and subsequent decay, and enjoy the scenic walks surrounding it.

14. St Clements Caves

So I didn’t know Sussex had this until I went. It's really fun!Please bring a coat as it can be a bit chilly!

Location: West Hill, Hastings, East Sussex

St Clement’s Caves, formed during the last Ice Age, have played a fascinating role in the history of Hastings. From smuggling activities to housing unique dwellings, the caves offer a journey into the mysterious underground world and the secrets it holds.

Discover Secret Gardens and Natural Reserves: Hidden Gems of West Sussex

West Sussex is home to some of the most stunning landscapes and views, and also, beautiful scenic walks.

1. Ebernoe Common

For all the wildlife lovers out there, Ebernoe Common is a hidden tucked away walk/ forest for those to find some beautiful wildlife spots as well as great places to relax and hike.

Location: Near Petworth, West Sussex

Entry: Free

Ebernoe Common is a hidden treasure of ancient woodlands and rich wildlife. This secluded reserve is home to rare species of bats and moths, offering a unique opportunity to witness the diverse fauna of West Sussex in a tranquil setting.

2. Levin Down

Once again, although not bustling with shops and fast roller-coaster rides, Sussex in general is a stunning spot for nature enthusiasts alike.

Location: Singleton, Chichester, West Sussex

Entry: Free

Levin Down, a lesser-known chalk grassland reserve, is a haven for butterflies and wildflowers. The serene landscapes and undisturbed flora make it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude and a close encounter with nature’s beauty.

3. The Mens

Unlike its title, no, ‘The Mens’ isn’t lots of men, its home to some amazing hidden wildlife species that are protected and you’re welcome to explore this on foot

Location: Near Petworth, West Sussex

Entry: Free

The Mens is a secluded ancient woodland, a sanctuary for myriad species of fungi, birds, and insects. The dense canopy and untouched undergrowth provide a serene atmosphere for a peaceful walk amidst nature’s whispers.

4. Graffham Down

I know some people might already know this walk, as it is quite popular, but I always find the locals lovely and happy to talk to you! Graffham Down holds some stunning orchids and great little bugs, how many can you find, or hear?

Location: Near Graffham, West Sussex

Entry: Free

Graffham Down is a secret chalk grassland, rich in rare orchids and buzzing with insects during the summer. The panoramic views and vibrant wildflowers make it a picturesque and serene spot for nature lovers.

5. Burton Pond

So I can imagine that you’re walking with your partner, kids are with their grandparents, everything is still, happy, and the views are immaculate.

Location: Near Fittleworth, West Sussex

Entry: Free

Burton Pond is a hidden gem, home to diverse aquatic life and surrounded by heathland and woodland. The quiet trails and the gentle ripple of water make it a tranquil retreat for those seeking solace in nature.

6. Amberley Wild Brooks

And you get to take great pictures of baby ducks like this!

Location: Near Amberley, West Sussex

Entry: Free

Amberley Wild Brooks is a secluded wetland reserve, a paradise for waterfowls and waders. The untouched landscapes and the symphony of bird calls create a soothing environment for a reflective walk.

7. Ditchling Beacon

Due to it being a National Trust site, it is protected, but also still walkable and beautiful.

Location: Near Ditchling, East Sussex

Entry: Free

Ditchling Beacon offers breathtaking views of the South Downs. It’s a secluded spot where the rolling hills meet the sky, providing a serene backdrop for contemplation and relaxation.

8. Lavington Common

This Woodland Trust is home to animals such as cows, different types of birds and so much more!

Location: Near Petworth, West Sussex

Entry: Free

Lavington Common is a hidden heathland reserve, home to a variety of reptiles and heathland birds. The sandy trails and the whispering heather offer a peaceful escape into the wild beauty of West Sussex.

9. Pulborough Brooks

Just, WOW

Location: Wiggonholt, Pulborough, West Sussex, RH20 2EL

Entry: Find pricing information at rspb.org.uk

Pulborough Brooks is a secret sanctuary for birds, with its wet meadows and lush woodlands. The reserve offers secluded spots for birdwatching and tranquil paths for a leisurely stroll amidst the sounds of nature.

10. Stedham Common

I love meadows like this, the drop of color just captures anyones hearts!

Location: Near Midhurst, West Sussex

Entry: Free

Stedham Common is a secluded heathland and woodland reserve, a refuge for diverse flora and fauna. The quiet trails and the rustle of leaves create a calming atmosphere for those seeking a hidden natural retreat.

11. Wakehurst Botanical Garden

Please adhere to this map and enjoy your day exploring!

Location: Ardingly, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH17 6TN

Entry: Find pricing information at kew.org

Wakehurst is a secret garden of rare plants and trees, a living collection of the world’s temperate flora. The secluded paths and the vibrant blooms make it a magical place for exploration and discovery.

12. Petworth Deer Park

Not only a stunning piece of history, this National Trust building and gardens are home to Deer!

Location: Petworth, West Sussex, GU28 0QY

Entry: Find pricing info at nationaltrust.org.uk

Petworth Deer Park is a hidden haven for deer, with ancient trees and serene lakes. The expansive landscapes and the graceful inhabitants provide a peaceful backdrop for a walk in solitude.

Embark on Unique Culinary Adventures

Indulge in the flavors of West Sussex by diving into unconventional and rare local delicacies. The region is rich with unique culinary traditions, offering a variety of dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Here are some places where you can experience these exotic and rare dishes, offering a culinary journey like no other.

1. The Suet Sanctuary

Just looks like a steak pie to me, what are your thoughts?

Discover the tradition of suet puddings, a staple in Sussex cuisine, at this quaint eatery. From Sussex Bacon Pudding to the savory Ifield Hog’s Pudding, each dish is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the region. Don’t forget to try the Flead Cake, a delicacy claimed by both Sussex and Kent, offering a taste of the past with every bite.

2. The Pudding Palace

I can kinda vibe with this one, it looks yummy!

Venture into the world of sweet and savory puddings at The Pudding Palace. With offerings like Sussex Drip Pudding and Sussex Blanket Pudding, this place is a haven for those looking to explore traditional Sussex recipes. The Sussex Churdle, a 17th-century dish, is a must-try, wrapping pastry around a hearty meat filling topped with breadcrumbs and cheese.

3. The Coastal Culinary Corner

Yes, SEAFOOD!!!

Experience the coastal flavors of Sussex at this seaside restaurant. From Rye herrings to Selsey cockles and Chichester lobsters, each dish is a celebration of the fresh produce from the Sussex shores. The Arundel mullets and Amberley trouts are a delight for seafood lovers, offering a taste of the sea in every bite.

4. The Banoffee Boutique

One word, YUM

Indulge your sweet tooth at The Banoffee Boutique, the birthplace of the world-renowned Banoffee Pie. Invented in Sussex in the 1960s, this dessert is a delightful concoction of bananas, cream, and toffee. The original recipe is still used, offering a taste of inventive culinary traditions of Sussex.

5. The Scallop Soiree

So, I actually only tried them a couple days ago, I like them, let me know what you guys think about them!

Celebrate the prolific produce of East Sussex at The Scallop Soiree, especially during the Rye Bay Scallop Festival in February. Taste scallops served in the simplest and fanciest ways, a true testament to the delectable seafood abundant off the shores of Sussex. The Wild Boar Festival in October is another culinary event not to be missed, showcasing delicious meat along with a display of some of East Sussex’s most traditional produce.

Each of these places offers a unique culinary experience, allowing you to delve deep into the food traditions of Sussex. Whether you are a fan of savory puddings, sweet desserts, or fresh seafood, Sussex has something to offer to every food enthusiast. So, why wait? Embark on this culinary adventure and savor the flavors of Sussex!

Ephemeral Elegance: The Concealed Canvas of Sussex

Sussex is FULL of modern and old fashioned art galleries and museums for the lovers of art and culture.

1. AG Hendy’s Home – A Fairytale Frozen in Time

Image from the website, stuck in time this home makes you go back in time and see how the British used to live it up!

Step into a Brothers Grimm fairytale as you explore this restored historic home in Hastings’ Old Town. Alistair Hendy’s meticulous design touch transforms this unique Tudor house into a mesmerizing time-capsule, especially atmospheric at Christmas. Love Christmas? Same! Click here to find out more!

2.Coastal Culture Trail – A Journey Through Artistic Shores

Pick where to start and finish, with this fun and immersive trail!

Traverse the 18-mile Coastal Culture Trail and experience three award-winning art galleries along the Sussex coast: the Towner in Eastbourne, the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill, and the Hastings Contemporary. Explore the trail here

3.Secret Sussex Supper Clubs – A Culinary Enigma

One word, BREAD

Sada Ray orchestrates atmospheric seasonal supper clubs in unique venues around West Sussex, each event a symphony of seasonal ingredients and atmospheric venues. Discover the secret here

4.The Dome Cinema – A Nostalgic Cinematic Jewel

I wish they still did this, I feel modern cinema has just lost its magic!

Experience the nostalgic elegance of The Dome Cinema on Worthing’s seafront, a beautiful reminiscence of the early 1900s cinema. Who doesn’t want to explore the way people used to watch in the early 20th century, click here now!

5.Foraged by Fern – A Walk Through Nature’s Pantry

Please listen to this really fun and exciting podcast, all about nature, culture and art!

Fern Freud invites you to explore the abundant wild foods of Sussex, weaving forgotten stories and folklore into her guided foraging events and workshops. Discover the wild

6. Artelium – A Sip of Artistic Essence

Now as a wine babe herself, well used to be, this stunning vineyard is everything you need!

Artelium, a boutique Sussex winery, blends vineyard tours and art exhibitions, allowing you to sip pinot noir while browsing contemporary art. Explore here

7. Renaissance Art Studio – A Brush with History

Image from their website, this stunning studio allows you to bring your creativity to life!

Located in the only part of Cowdray Park that escaped fire damage, this studio offers art classes exploring techniques of the great master painters of the 16th and 17th centuries. Discover history in your own time, please click the link here for tickets and information

8. Farleys House & Gallery – A Surrealist’s Sanctuary

I love how unique this is, for people who are in love with abstract and modern art, this stunning piece of architecture is for you

PLEASE KEEP THE CROP

Once home to Lee Miller and Roland Penrose, Farleys House in East Sussex is a treasure trove of contemporary art, known as the ‘House of the surrealists’. Want to learn more about Sussex’s massive art and culture history? Click here!

9. John Fuller’s Pyramid Mausoleum – A Monument of Eccentricity

Dating back years and years, this pyramid tomb is an amazing part of history for Sussex, and what it represents!

Discover the pyramid-shaped tomb of John "Mad Jack" Fuller in the tiny village of Brightling, a bizarre and fascinating local legend. Explore the hidden pyramid here!

10. Fire + Wild – A Symphony of Nature’s Whispers

Cook up some delicious and yummy treats all in the name of fire and nature!

Experience an epic intimate outdoor banquet in a secret woodland location with Fire + Wild, where nature and the seasons inspire every feast. Discover the magic here!

Unusual and Unique Places to Stay in Sussex for Adventurers and Travelers

Petworth Park is another notably gorgeous stay and piece of history that not many know of, but I urge people to go to!

Looking to escape the mundane and immerse yourself in the extraordinary? Sussex is home to some truly unusual and unique places to stay, perfect for adventurers and travelers seeking something a bit different. Here, we explore some of these hidden gems, where you can experience the charm and wonder of Sussex in a whole new way.

1. The Cat, West Hoathly

KEEP THE CROP/ I love bedrooms with beams! It’s like a Tudor fantasy tale!

Nestled five miles from Lindfield, The Cat is not just a fantastic pub but also a cozy retreat where you can bed down for the night. Expect a warm welcome, excellent food, and a cozy bar area. It’s a hidden gem where luxury meets homeliness For more information on the prices, click here

2. Bailiffscourt Hotel, Climping

Boasting at a strong £330 pounds per night, I don’t know if everyone would love it, but this unique and stunning classic stay is just fabulous.

This luxurious hotel is a place you won’t want to leave. It offers outstanding food, luxurious rooms, beautiful grounds, and an incredible spa experience. It’s part of the Historic Sussex Hotels group and offers excellent deals off-peak. Want a unique stay at a good price, look no further, click here to book now!

3. Crab & Lobster, Pagham Harbour

Sometimes simple and modern is the way to go, and the Crab and Lobster, along with its yummy food and picturesque views, are just the ticket!

This much-lauded restaurant with rooms is a treasure located on the banks of Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve. It offers fresh fish and local produce in the restaurant and luxury rooms with sea views for the night. More on the pricey side, this fun and artistic stay is perfect for people who love a bit of art and culture thrown in

4. Canfield’s Farm, Rudgwick

Obsessed, Obsessed, and Obsessed

For those looking to reconnect with nature, Canfield’s Farm offers a glamping experience where you can stargaze and sleep under canvas. It’s a place to enjoy the peace, quiet, and lack of wifi signal around a real campfire. Absolute YES! I love space, so this is something I would LOVE to try, someone please let me know what they thought of it!

5. Knepp Castle Estate, Horsham

I am now called Mrs Darcey

Experience the ancient West Sussex woodland by staying in a yurt, tipi, tent, or a cozy shepherd’s hut on the estate. It’s a natural idyll hand-crafted using recycled materials and wood sourced from the Knepp Estate. Staring at the stars, in a tipi, on an estate, what am I? Royalty!

6. Gravetye Manor, West Hoathly

I adore places like this, I think of having tea, watching the birds and seeing the flowers, it’s a dream, maybe it’ll be yours too!

For those seeking high-end luxury, Gravetye Manor is an Elizabethan stone mansion that offers charm, style, beautifully appointed rooms, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. The gardens, created by one of England’s greatest gardeners, William Robinson, are simply breath-taking. Want to splash a bit more but throw yourself back in time? This place has it all!

7. The Old Railway Station, Petworth

For train enthusiasts, and lovers of art and quirky stays, this place is PERFECT FOR YOU!

This charming hotel, formerly Petworth Railway Station, offers a unique experience where you can stay in a stunningly-restored station building or an old Pullman train carriage. So you’re telling me you can stay in an old train carriage, how cool, no matter the price, i shall do it!

8. Park House Hotel & Spa, Midhurst

And for those who want a bit more of a pamper stay, and a comfier sleep, Park House Hotel exposes a beautiful landscape and stunning swimming pool for everyone of all ages

This luxurious country house hotel offers a real escape with top-class food, a gym, fitness studio, indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and treatment rooms. Topping the price range, but for a spa and tranquility, I don’t know how anyone can refuse!

9. Goodwood Hotel, Goodwood

A place with a driveway like this, take my money I’ll be there soon, lol!

Located on the sweeping Goodwood Estate, this hotel offers spa facilities, dinner options, and serves top-class local produce from the estate. Click here for an all rounded, unique and hidden stay in Sussex!

10. Blackberry Wood

Ever stayed in a treehouse? Well stay here, near the capital, you can have a fun stay in the woodland, and live it up in the city at night!

Blackberry Wood offers a range of imaginative glamping options set around a red telephone box and old-fashioned lamppost in Sussex’s glorious South Downs. It’s enchanting and just 1.5 hours from London and 30 minutes from Brighton. Want to be near London but not pay London hotel prices?? This place is for you and is worth every PENNY

Final Thoughts

From the clandestine art galleries to the secret supper clubs, we've glimpsed the unconventional and the extraordinary that this charming county has to offer. It’s been a journey of enchanting woodlands, nostalgic cinemas, and magical art studios, each telling its own tale of the rich and diverse culture of West Sussex.

Now, it’s your turn to step into the unknown and experience the uncharted beauty and mysteries of West Sussex. Whether it’s a candlelight tour of a time capsule cottage or a cozy movie night in an Art Deco cinema, there’s a world of unseen wonders waiting for you to discover. So why not venture off the beaten path and delve into the lesser-known attractions of this delightful county?

Remember, it’s the unexpected and the undiscovered that make our journeys memorable. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and let’s make some unforgettable memories in the hidden corners of West Sussex! See you on the secret trails!

That's all for this post! If you've visited West Sussex and discovered any hidden treasures or have tips to share, I'd be thrilled to hear about them. If you're in the process of planning a trip and have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out. Assisting fellow travellers is always a pleasure, and I make it a point to respond to every email I receive (sara@sarajourneys.com). Until we meet again, journey safely!

P.S. For those curious to see more, you can find all our travel photos on the SaraJourneysMore Instagram page.