Where To Stay in Sussex for Culture, History & Incredible Scenery

Whether you’re seeking a fun-fuelled holiday or a blissful retreat, there’s nowhere quite like Sussex. From the bucolic landscapes of the South Downs to the lively beaches of Brighton, there’s so much to explore here. Our travel experts at Plum Guide have all the inside knowledge on planning a Sussex holiday, so you’re in good hands. Keep reading for our guide to where to stay in Sussex.

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The tiny East Sussex village of Rye was once a bustling port in the Middle Ages – hard to believe now with its picturesque streets and peaceful atmosphere. If it looks familiar, that's because it's home to one of the most photographed streets in England. Lined with timber-framed cottages, the cobbled Mermaid Street is like something out of a fairytale and is any photographer's dream. Snaps taken, pop in for a drink at Mermaid Inn which has a spooky history dating back to 1156. From smugglers' tunnels to paranormal sightings, there's a lot to uncover here.

For even more history, head to Rye Castle's Ypres Tower. Built in 1249, the tower is now a museum where you can see the cells where prisoners were chained and a real smuggler's lantern. Just across the road is the 12th-century St Mary's Church with its climbable bell tower and lovely views over Rye's rooftops. If you fancy a stroll, Rye Nature Reserve has various walking routes that lead you through grassland, woods, and salt marshes. Alternatively, walk down to Camber Sands for a beach day. It can get quite windy here, making it a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing – you'll find lessons and equipment hire at the Kitesurfing Centre and Camber Kitesurfing.

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Located in West Sussex, the market town of Horsham is a wonderful place to stay. The Causeway is one of its most attractive streets, where you can check out the historic houses and admire the exquisite stained glass window in St Mary’s Church. Keen shoppers can find bargains in the many independent stores in Piries Place and Swan Walk. There are also several markets, from the Artist & Makers Market to the Vegan Market. The Carfax Local Market takes place every Thursday and Saturday, boasting stalls packed with antiques, clothing and mouth-watering street food. Speaking of food, Horsham is a great place for foodies as it offers everything from trendy restaurants to bakeries and coffee shops.

If you’re travelling with kids, there are plenty of things to keep them entertained. Horsham Park is a beautiful green haven with tennis courts, a skate park and a sensory garden. It’s the best place to be when the sun’s out, and kids can run around the lawns and visit the ducks in the pond. There are also a few walks around Horsham, including Chesworth Farm with its wildflower meadows and Leonardslee Gardens with its resident wallabies.

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No list of where to stay in Sussex would be complete without Brighton, one of the country’s most popular seaside destinations. There’s fun for the whole family here, from traditional amusements at Brighton Palace Pier to miles of pebble beach to spread out on. As you stroll along the promenade, you’ll pass attractions like the Upside Down House, the bandstand, the West Pier and the Brighton i360. This observation tower is 137 metres high and boasts magnificent panoramas of the city and coastline.

If you're looking to go on a night out or two, Brighton is the best place for it. There's a bar and club for all kinds of tastes, from LGBTQ+-friendly spaces to speakeasies, live music venues and stylish cocktail bars. Get dolled up and head towards the Lanes, North Laine, Churchill Square, Western Road and Trafalgar Street. The city is also a fantastic place to shop, with a mix of high-street favourites and one-of-a-kind independent shops. The Lanes and North Laine both offer an array of boutiques where you can browse everything from glassware and ceramics to clothing and antiques.

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Another seaside resort for family-friendly holidays is Hastings in East Sussex. Famous for the battle between William the Conqueror and King Harold, the town is a brilliant destination for any history lover. Start your adventure in the Old Town, where smugglers used to haul their goods along the narrow back streets. Make your way up to Hastings Castle, built by William the Conqueror in the 12th century. Although all that's left are the ruins, it's still worth exploring, even just for the views. When you're ready to head back down, take the West Hill Cliff Railway with its original Victorian coaches (it may be old, but don't worry, it's perfectly safe). The funicular takes you to George Street on the seafront, where you can browse the shops and grab a bite to eat before relaxing on Hastings Beach.

To stretch your legs, Hastings Country Park is the best spot for walking and cycling. Situated within the High Weald AONB, the nature reserve is made up of woodland, grassland, heathland and sandstone cliffs. You’ll be able to spot all kinds of birds, such as peregrine falcons and yellowhammers. Look out to sea, too – sharp eyes can even spot bottlenose dolphins and porpoises.

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Browse our collection of East Sussex cottages.

Culture vultures wondering where to stay in Sussex will love Chichester. Catch a show at the Chichester Festival Theatre, which has an exciting, year-round programme of dramas, musicals and touring productions. Meanwhile, art enthusiasts should check out the Pallant House Gallery – showcasing modern British art from 1900 to the present day – as well as the Oxmarket Contemporary with its paintings, prints, sculptures and ceramics. Petrolheads may want to time their visit in late June or early July to coincide with the Goodwood Festival of Speed, a huge gathering of classic and modern motor vehicles.

If history is more your thing, this Roman cathedral city has plenty of historical ruins to discover, from Roman Baths, an old Roman road and an amphitheatre converted into a park. You can’t miss the glorious cathedral, founded in 1075, featuring Norman and Gothic architecture. Have a wander around and admire the cloisters, medieval sculptures and the collection of modern art. Next door is the Bishop’s Palace Garden, a tranquil park with an arboretum and a pergola walk. This is a peaceful place to enjoy a picnic or a quick break from sightseeing.

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The charming market town of Lewes in East Sussex is the best choice if you’re looking for a mix of attractions and natural beauty. Its medieval alleyways (known as 'twittens' in Sussex) are lined with old churches, independent retailers and art galleries. One of the best attractions is the Anne of Cleves House, which once belonged to Henry VIII’s fourth wife. Take a look around the well-preserved interiors, including the Tudor kitchen, the bedroom and the parlour – kids can have fun getting dressed up in period clothing and playing kings and queens. Outside, the garden has been designed with Tudor planting schemes and features herbs, shrubs and fruit trees that would’ve been used during the 15th century.

Another must-visit is Lewes Castle and Museum. Standing high above the town, the castle was built in 1087 by William de Warenne, William the Conqueror’s brother-in-law. Make the steep climb up to the castle’s keep for inspiring views before heading next door to the museum to check out the exhibitions. After covering Lewes’ main sights, you may want to take it easy and relax with a glass of wine. A short drive away are some of the best Sussex vineyards, including Ridgeview Wine Estate and Black Dog Hill Vineyard.

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The final place on our list of where to stay in Sussex is the pretty town of Arundel. Its fairytale-like atmosphere makes it the ideal spot for a romantic getaway, with plenty of things to do for you and your other half. Stroll around Arundel Castle and Gardens, admiring its impressive rooms and collection of 16th-century furniture, tapestries and paintings that include work from Gainsborough and Van Dyck. The gardens are equally as beautiful, with springtime seeing colourful tulips and alliums in full bloom. The romance continues with a relaxing rowing boat ride across Swanbourne Lake before a picnic on the lawn.

Located on the edge of the South Downs National Park, Arundel is also a fantastic base for outdoor activities. Cycle or walk through ancient chalk grassland, yew forests and dramatic coastline. Hire kayaks and paddleboards and glide down the rivers, or ride on horseback along the South Downs Way. After a long day of exploring the countryside, unwind with a swim in Arundel Lido.

Take a look at our vacation rentals in West Sussex.

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