Great Things To Do In East Sussex
If you’re planning a trip to East Sussex, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to activities and attractions. From exploring historic castles and stately homes to soaking up the sun on beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone in this charming county. With so many options available, it can be tough to decide what to do first. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 20 things to do in East Sussex, so you can make the most of your time in this picturesque part of England. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for some family-friendly fun, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your walking shoes and your sense of adventure, and let’s explore the best that East Sussex has to offer!
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Visit the White Cliffs of Beachy Head
The White Cliffs of Beachy Head are an iconic landmark in East Sussex and a must-visit destination for any traveller. These chalk cliffs rise to a height of 162 meters and offer breath-taking views of the English Channel. You can take a leisurely stroll along the cliff-top trail or join a guided tour to learn more about the history and geology of the area.
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Explore the Historic Town of Rye
The charming town of Rye is a well-preserved medieval town that is steeped in history. It’s a great place to explore on foot, with cobbled streets, half-timbered buildings, and an impressive castle. You can also visit the Rye Museum to learn more about the town’s fascinating past.
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Discover the Beauty of Seven Sisters Country Park
Seven Sisters Country Park is a stunning nature reserve that boasts miles of scenic trails, rolling hills, and picturesque river valleys. It’s a great place to go hiking, cycling, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views. You can also take a boat trip along the Cuckmere River and spot some of the local wildlife.
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Visit the Historic Battle Abbey
The historic Battle Abbey is a must-visit destination for any history buff. It was built on the site of the famous Battle of Hastings, which took place in 1066, and is now a fascinating museum that tells the story of the battle and the Norman conquest of England.
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Enjoy a Day Out at Drusillas Park
Drusillas Park is a fun-packed family attraction that offers a range of activities and attractions for all ages. You can see a wide variety of animals, including meerkats, penguins, and monkeys, or take a ride on the Thomas the Tank Engine train. There are also plenty of play areas, rides, and exhibits to keep the kids entertained.
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Wander Around the Gardens of Great Dixter
Great Dixter is a beautiful country house that is surrounded by stunning gardens. It’s a great place to go for a leisurely stroll and admire the colourful flowers, exotic plants, and ornamental features. You can also take a guided tour of the house to learn more about its history and architecture.
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Take a Stroll Along the Beach at Camber Sands
Camber Sands is a beautiful sandy beach that stretches for miles along the East Sussex coast. It’s a great place to go for a walk, build sandcastles, or simply soak up the sun. You can also try your hand at various water sports, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding.
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Visit the Historic Town of Lewes
The historic town of Lewes is a fascinating place to explore, with a rich history and a range of interesting attractions. You can visit the Lewes Castle, which dates back to the 11th century, or take a stroll around the Southover Grange Gardens. The town is also home to a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
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See the Animals at the Knockhatch Adventure Park
The Knockhatch Adventure Park is a great place to go for a family day out. You can see a wide variety of animals, including lemurs, meerkats, and wallabies, or try your hand at various activities, such as go-karting, boating, and climbing. There are also plenty of play areas and rides to keep the kids entertained.
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Explore the Historic Bodiam Castle
Bodiam Castle is a stunning medieval castle that is surrounded by a moat and set in picturesque countryside. It’s a great place to go for a day out, with guided tours, exhibitions, and events throughout the year. You can also enjoy a leisurely stroll around the castle grounds and admire the stunning views.
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Take a Boat Trip Along the River Ouse
The River Ouse is a picturesque waterway that runs through the heart of East Sussex. You can take a boat trip along the river and see some of the local wildlife, such as swans, herons, and ducks. There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and other water-based activities.
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Enjoy a Day Out at the Blue Reef Aquarium Hastings
The Blue Reef Aquarium Hastings is a great place to go for a family day out. You can see a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, seahorses, and turtles, or take a stroll through the underwater tunnel. There are also plenty of interactive exhibits and educational displays to keep the kids entertained.
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Visit the Stunning Bateman’s House and Gardens
Bateman’s House and Gardens is a beautiful country house that is surrounded by stunning gardens. It was once the home of the famous author Rudyard Kipling and is now a fascinating museum that tells the story of his life and work. You can also enjoy a leisurely stroll around the gardens and admire the beautiful flowers and plants.
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Go Shopping in the Historic Town of Hastings
The historic town of Hastings is a great place to go shopping, with a range of independent boutiques, antique shops, and craft markets. You can also explore the Hastings Old Town and admire the charming architecture or take a stroll along the seafront and soak up the atmosphere.
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Visit the Stunning Pashley Manor Gardens
Pashley Manor Gardens is a beautiful country house that is surrounded by stunning gardens. It’s a great place to go for a leisurely stroll and admire the colourful flowers, exotic plants, and ornamental features. You can also enjoy a delicious cream tea in the tearooms and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.
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Explore the Historic Port of Rye Harbour
The historic port of Rye Harbour is a fascinating place to explore, with a rich history and a range of interesting attractions. You can visit the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, which is home to a wide variety of birds and other wildlife or take a boat trip along the river and see some of the local sights.
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Discover the Stunning Hastings Country Park
Hastings Country Park is a beautiful nature reserve that offers miles of scenic trails, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys. It’s a great place to go hiking, cycling, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views. You can also visit the Hastings Country Park Visitors Centre to learn more about the local wildlife and history.
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Visit the Beautiful Bexhill-on-Sea
Bexhill-on-Sea is a beautiful coastal town that is famous for its stunning Art Deco architecture and charming seafront. It’s a great place to go for a leisurely stroll, explore the local museums and galleries, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
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Enjoy a Day Out at the Hastings Adventure Golf
The Hastings Adventure Golf is a fun-packed family attraction that offers a range of activities and attractions for all ages. You can try your hand at various mini-golf courses, or enjoy a range of other activities, such as go-karting, laser tag, and soft play. There are also plenty of refreshments and snacks available.
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Take a Cruise Along the English Channel
The English Channel is a beautiful stretch of water that offers stunning views and a range of interesting sights. You can take a leisurely cruise along the channel and see some of the local landmarks and attractions, such as the White Cliffs of Beachy Head and the French coast. There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and other activities.
Conclusion
East Sussex is a beautiful county that is full of interesting attractions and activities. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for some family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque part of England. From exploring historic castles and stately homes to soaking up the sun on beautiful beaches, you’re sure to find plenty of things to do in East Sussex. So, grab your walking shoes and your sense of adventure, and let’s explore the best that this charming county has to offer!
