Situated in the south-east of England, East Sussex is a beautiful county filled with rolling hills, lush forests and stunning coastline. The area boasts an array of attractions from historic castles and museums to fun activities such as kayaking and horse riding. With its idyllic villages and bustling towns, East Sussex has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, this region will not disappoint. So if you’re ready to discover all that East Sussex has to offer then read on!
Click on a link to skip to that section
Hastings
Hastings is the largest town in the county and has many historical sites to visit including the ruins of Hastings Castle and Old Town. It's also known for its traditional fishermen’s huts along the beachfront and vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, cafés and nightlife. The local fishing industry still plays an important role in the town and there are plenty of seafood restaurants and markets to explore. Hastings also has a long-standing reputation for its artistic community, with several galleries, theatres and live music venues offering aspiring and established artists alike an opportunity to showcase their work. Have a look at our full guide here
Eastbourne
Eastbourne is another popular destination on the south coast with a seven-mile stretch of blue flag beaches and a lively pier full of amusements and fairground rides. Eastbourne has something for everyone, from its picturesque Victorian gardens and charming tea rooms to the chic shopping streets of The Crumbles The nearby South Downs National Park is the perfect spot for a peaceful walk or cycle ride, while the stunning Beachy Head cliffs offer spectacular views of the English Channel. Have a look at our full guide here
Rye
Rye is a picturesque town located in the heart of East Sussex. Its cobbled lanes are lined with beautiful buildings, while its winding paths meander down to its harbour. The town is home to several historic landmarks such as Lamb House, Rye Castle Museum and Ypres Tower which provide fascinating insight into their past. Have a look at our full guide here.
Brighton
Brighton is one of East Sussex’s most popular destinations due to its buzzing nightlife and iconic attractions such as the Royal Pavilion and British Airways i360 observation tower. The city is home to a vibrant cultural scene with multiple festivals, theatres and galleries throughout the year. Brighton also has its own pier which features amusement arcades and all sorts of attractions. There is plenty of history to explore in Brighton, from the ancient Saxon settlement of Brighthelmstone to its status as a fashionable seaside resort in the 18th century. Today, Brighton is known for its Victorian architecture and long seafront and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Have a look at our full guide here.
Battle
Battle which is renowned for Battle Abbey where William The Conqueror fought his famous battle in 1066. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the abbey and enjoy a trip to Battle's annual re-enactment of the famous battle. The area is also home to a variety of historic attractions including the award-winning 1066 Battle of Hastings Experience. There are also many beautiful gardens, such as the High Beeches Gardens and St Mary's churchyard which have a range of rare trees and plants. Battle is also a great place for outdoor activities such as walking and cycling, with plenty of paths and trails to explore. Have a look at our full guide here.
Camber Sands
The charming village of Camber lies just south of Rye on the coast. Camber Sands beach is one of the most popular attractions in the area - it's a 6-mile stretch of clean, sandy beach with excellent views out to sea. It's the perfect spot for a picnic, a stroll or a fun day out with the family.
Burwash
Burwash offers beautiful countryside views as well as interesting places to explore such as Bateman's Jacobean house used by Rudyard Kipling in his writing. Bonfire Night celebrations are held annually in Burwash and the nearby village of Punnetts Town. The area is also home to a number of historic buildings including Burwash Manor, a 13th century timber-framed house and St Bartholomew's Church which dates back to Norman times.
Bexhill
Bexhill-on-Sea boasts a long stretch of beachfront lined with an array of shops, cafés and restaurants along with an art deco inspired De La Warr Pavilion which hosts live events throughout the year. The town also has a rich history, having been founded in the 11th century. Bexhill was home to an array of historic institutions including a Benedictine priory and later, during Tudor times, a royal palace. Today, visitors can explore these sites, as well as stroll through Bexhill’s beautiful parks and gardens.
In conclusion, East Sussex offers something for everyone from idyllic villages to bustling cities, cultural landmarks to family fun activities - there's no shortage things to do here! So no matter what type of holiday you're looking for, this beautiful county will definitely have something for you!
If you are thinking about visiting East Sussex let Coast Holidays take care of your accommodation needs. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape or a family friendly adventure, we can help arrange the perfect getaway for you. Our team of experienced advisors are always on hand. Have a look for your perfect property here