Things to do in South Downs
Discover the best attractions and experiences South Downs has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient fortifications and grand estates that dot the South Downs, reflecting centuries of English history.
Lewes Castle
A Norman fortress perched above Lewes, offering history displays and panoramic views of the town.
Arundel Castle
One of England’s great medieval castles, with extensive grounds and river views.
Battle Abbey
The site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings with preserved earthworks and a museum.
Museums
Discover maritime, natural, and rural heritage in the region's museums.
Brighton Museum and Art Gallery
A diverse city museum in Royal Pavilion Gardens, spanning local history, art, and design.
Booth Museum of Natural History
A charming natural history museum in Brighton featuring fossil and specimen displays.
Weald and Downland Living Museum
A rural life museum with historic buildings transported from across southern England.
Fishbourne Roman Palace
A well-preserved Roman villa near Chichester with mosaics and history.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites showcase Sussex's spiritual heritage, from cathedrals to priory ruins.
Chichester Cathedral
A stunning medieval cathedral with a serene nave and historic cloisters.
Arundel Cathedral
A striking Gothic-style Roman Catholic cathedral set atop the Arun valley.
Lewes Priory Ruins
Remains of a historic priory offering picturesque river views in Lewes.
National & Theme Parks
Natural landscapes and country parks define the South Downs' dramatic scenery.
South Downs National Park
England’s newest national park covering chalk downs, rolling farmland, and coast.
Seven Sisters Country Park
Coastal countryside park along the Cuckmere Haven with trails and viewpoints.
Birling Gap & Beachy Head Nature Reserve
Coastal nature reserve around Beachy Head with chalk cliffs and cliff-top walks.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant towns and districts offer charm, culture, and local character.
The Lanes (Brighton)
A maze of narrow streets in central Brighton known for quirky shops and cafes.
Kemp Town (Brighton)
Historic seaside enclave with grand Regency-era terraces and lively beachfront.
Lewes Old Town
A compact, medieval town center with winding lanes, independent shops, and riverside charm.
Free Things to Do
Many of the South Downs' best views and strolls are free, perfect for easy adventures.
Walk the South Downs Way
Tackle a scenic segment of England’s iconic long-distance path with coastal and downs views.
Stroll along Brighton Seafront and Pier
Enjoy the sea breeze and views along the iconic waterfront.
Devil’s Dyke Viewpoint Walk
Climb to a sweeping view over the Downs and the Weald.
Cuckmere Haven Walk
A coastal estuary trail with sweeping clifftops and meadows.
Gastronomy
Taste the region's wines, ales, and farm-to-table fare.
Bolney Wine Estate
Sample Sussex wines and enjoy a countryside vineyard visit near Bolney.
Nyetimber Wine Estate
Prestigious English sparkling wine producer with scenic vineyard surroundings.
Harveys Brewery
Historic Lewes brewery offering classic ales and a glimpse into beer heritage.
Nightlife
Evening scenes center on Brighton's lively bars and venues.
Komedia Brighton
A popular venue for live comedy, music, and cabaret in central Brighton.
The Haunt (Brighton)
A lively late-night venue hosting gigs and club nights by the sea.
The Old Market
Characterful arts venue offering concerts, theatre, and cabaret.
Entertainment
Arts venues across the region host performances, plays, and concerts.
Brighton Dome
A premier arts and events complex with concerts, theatre and cinema.
Chichester Festival Theatre
One of the UK’s leading regional theatres with acclaimed productions.
Theatre Royal, Brighton
Historic theatre hosting a variety of shows and performances.
Sports
Active travelers can enjoy on-pitch games, races, and outdoor routes.
Glorious Goodwood (Goodwood Racecourse)
World-famous horse racing meet set in scenic West Sussex.
Brighton & Hove Albion FC at the Amex Stadium
Watch top-flight football and enjoy a buzzing matchday atmosphere.
Arundel Golf Club
Challenging fairways with woodland and river views near Arundel.
Off the Track
Delve off the beaten path to iconic viewpoints and unusual sights.
Long Man of Wilmington
Ancient chalk figure in a chalk hillside offering sweeping countryside views.
Seven Sisters cliffs
Iconic white cliffs along the coast ideal for dramatic cliff-top walks.
Cuckmere Haven estuary walk
A picturesque estuary path with river, meadows, and cliff views.