Sussex has many lovely villages, a stunning coastline and beautiful countryside. Take the Sussex Downs on for exercise, get the wind in your hair at Beachy Head and wander the halls of Arundel Castle. Unmissable stops on your list will be Brighton for its pier and seaside, Lewes' quaint charm and Eastbourne's beachside attractions. Catch an opera at Glyndebourne House before relaxing at campsites in Sussex.
Crowhurst, Battle, East Sussex
Secluded, family site for tents, touring and bell tents at the heart of 1066 country. En-suite pitches too!
4.77 /5
Lancing, West Sussex
Tempting beach lovers exploring the South Coast, this peaceful and uncrowded site is only 7 miles from Brighton.
4.66 /5
Patching, West Sussex
Woodland camping in a stunning oak forest, perfect for family groups.
4.69 /5
Angmering, West Sussex
A friendly, family-run farm site beautifully positioned in the South Downs National Park, ten minutes from the sea.
4.79 /5
Graffham, Petworth, West Sussex
Family and dog friendly foodie site in the South Downs with campfires. Off-grid with gastro meals available!
4.89 /5
Polegate, East Sussex
A scenic site at the foot of the South Downs, walking distance from pubs and shops. 15 mins from Eastbourne beach!
4.51 /5
North Chailey, East Sussex
Surrounded by lovely walks through the Sussex countryside. Meet the sheep, alpacas and camels!
4.67 /5
Billingshurst, West Sussex
Rural pub site set in picturesque countryside. A mile from Billinghurst and close to the South Downs National Park.
4.45 /5
Chiddingly, East Sussex
Camping and glamping on a family-run working farm with onsite animals and produce, 20 minutes from Eastbourne.
4.91 /5
North Chailey, East Sussex
Back-to-nature camping and bell tents by the South Downs, surrounded by woodland. Onsite yoga, gong baths and more!
4.56 /5
Telscombe, Lewes, East Sussex
Peaceful back to basics camping, just off the South Downs Way and a 20-30 minute walk to the beach.
4.81 /5
Hambrook, West Sussex
Luxury woodland bell tents with an onsite bar and playground, ten minutes from Chichester. Dog friendly.
4.82 /5
Pett, Hastings, East Sussex
Family run farm site in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, ten minutes from beaches.
4.72 /5
Flimwell, Wadhurst, East Sussex
Dog friendly camping with campfires, by Bewl Water's water sports and Bedgebury Pinetum in the High Weald AONB.
4.58 /5
Battle, East Sussex
A magical woodland site, offering forest camping and wild glamping bell tents. Complete with bucket showers!
4.88 /5
Bexhill on Sea, East Sussex
Family friendly camping park with onsite play area, plus camping pods - a ten minute drive from the coast!
4.42 /5
Hellingly, East Sussex
Friendly, family run farm campsite with tent and campervan pitches, plus glamping - nearby the Cuckoo Trail.
4.9 /5
Rye Foreign, Rye, East Sussex
A relaxed and friendly camping and glamping site in 1066 Country, close to Rye and beaches like Camber Sands.
4.74 /5
Bodiam, Robertsbridge, East Sussex
Rural caravan and camping site with big pitches and an adventure playground. Campfires and pets welcome.
4.48 /5
West Chiltington, Pulborough, West Sussex
Secluded camping and glamping across wild meadows on a charming farm in West Sussex. Meet the highland cows!
4.76 /5
East Wittering, Chichester, West Sussex
Award winning, traditional family-run site, a 20 minute walk from the beach. Ten minutes from East Wittering Beach.
4.87 /5
Sidlesham, Chichester, West Sussex
Peaceful touring and glamping on a family-run site within ten minutes of Chichester and the coast. Dog friendly.
4.7 /5
Hastings, East Sussex
Family-friendly countryside camping, touring and glamping. Close to Hastings and Battle Abbey.
4.5 /5
Lewes, East Sussex
Family-friendly camping and glamping in the South Downs National Park, just off the A27, 15 minutes from Brighton.
4.9 /5
Waldron, Heathfield, East Sussex
Back to nature family camping and touring in the Sussex countryside. Dog friendly and campfires allowed.
4.85 /5
Westham, Pevensey, East Sussex
Peacefull, adult only camping and touring site in a nature reserve on the Pevensey Levels. Onsite animals and shop!
Henfield, West Sussex
Family friendly site in an oak-enclosed meadows with an onsite playpark and fishing. Just 20 minutes to Brighton!
4.6 /5
Uckfield, East Sussex
Family friendly camping and glamping near the Bluebell Railway. Campfires, workshops, wild spa, farm shop and more!
Battle, East Sussex
Family friendly camping and glamping in the High Weald AONB by an ancient woodland. Just 20 minutes to Hastings.
4.89 /5
Bodiam, Robertsbridge , East Sussex
Camping and Shepherd's Huts on a 200 acre farm. Onsite watersports and a cafe serving food, drink and cocktails!
4.47 /5
West Hoathly, West Sussex
A family-friendly back to basics campsite ideal for weekend getaways in the beautiful Sussex countryside.
4.84 /5
Eastbourne, East Sussex
Glamping in fully furnished, traditional Sioux Indian tipis. Ten minutes to the coast and 20 minutes to Eastbourne!
Netherfield, East Sussex
Rural farm with tents and campervan pitches in the High Weald AONB, near Hastings and Normans Bay. Bell tents too!
4.57 /5
East Grinstead, West Sussex
Luxury, ensuite pods with hot tubs on a 320 acre countryside estate. Next to Missing Link Brewery and Tap Room!
4.96 /5
Staplefield, West Sussex
Off grid and eco friendly camping site with tent pitches and bell tent glamping, plus a secret woodland onsite.
4.63 /5
Eridge, East Sussex
Peaceful almost wild camping with an onsite café in the woodland of Eridge Park, ten minutes from Tunbridge Wells.
4.23 /5
Upwaltham, Petworth, West Sussex
Peaceful, secluded tent site located on the South Downs Way with an onsite cafe. Ground campfires welcome!
Hastings, East Sussex
Camping on a working farm just outside the heart of Hastings. Just a ten minute drive to the seafront and pier!
Horsted Keynes, West Sussex
Off-grid wild glamping in the forest with beautifully furnished bell tents, bucket showers and campfires.
4.82 /5
Lewes, East Sussex
Rural camping and touring for members only. Glamping pods too! Close to many walks and a short drive to Eastbourne.
4.88 /5
Barcombe, Lewes, East Sussex
Peaceful camping and glamping site near the South Downs. Surrounded by wildlife with campfires allowed!
4.85 /5
Rudgwick, West Sussex
This peaceful site is only a short drive from a fishery and golf club - with plenty of activities for all to enjoy!
4.45 /5
Battle, East Sussex
Off-grid woodland glamping pods and bell tents with eco facilities, a 15 minute walk from Battle. Dog friendly.
4.73 /5
Peasmarsh, East Sussex
Peaceful campsite with bucket showers on the banks of the River Rother, ten minutes from Rye. Dog friendly.
4.46 /5
Cousley Wood, Wadhurst, East Sussex
Shepherd huts packed with comforts, in a quiet and secluded field surrounded by woodland. Near Bewl Water. Bliss!
4.9 /5
Brede, Rye, East Sussex
Quiet and secluded glamping in the heart of the East Sussex countryside. Open year round with onsite animals!
4.9 /5
Appledore, Rye, East Sussex
Ensuite safari tents with luxury kitchens, ensuites and scenic views. Just 15 minutes to Camber Sands!
5 /5
Balcombe, Haywards Heath, West Sussex
Luxury safari tents and a pod in a woodland setting. Situated in the High Weald AONB, a five minute walk to a pub.
4.66 /5
Cuckfield, Haywards Heath, West Sussex
Bell tent glamping with easy access from Brighton and London. Enjoy campfires and wild swimming!
4.7 /5
Pett, Hastings, East Sussex
Family friendly en-suite lodges close to seaside fun at Hastings and Dungeness, 25 minutes to Camber Sands.
Oakwood, Chichester, West Sussex
A luxurious glamping yurt village with hot tubs and hammocks, in beautiful countryside beside the South Downs.
4.75 /5
Filching, Polegate, East Sussex
Off grid wild camping and glamping site for nature lovers, situated within the South Downs National Park.
4.82 /5
Isfield, Uckfield, East Sussex
Traditional campsite with complimentary fire pits in a village setting, 15 minutes from the Bluebell Railway.
Ticehurst, East Sussex
Quiet, secluded campsite in the centre of a working farm, with spectacular views over Bewl Water.
4.7 /5
Telham, Battle, East Sussex
A back-to-basics, adult only camping and bell tent site between Hastings and Battle, 15 minutes from the beach.
4.93 /5
Rudgwick, Horsham, West Sussex
A safari tent getaway on a welcoming farm by the South Downs, perfect for families.
Waldron, Heathfield, East Sussex
Camping and glamping with fire pits set in a 70 acre woodland by the High Weald AONB. Dog and family friendly.
Brede, Rye, East Sussex
Private use of two fully furnished yurts with views over the Brede Valley and High Weald AONB. Dogs welcome!
Bodiam, Robertsbridge, East Sussex
Unique, family friendly railway carriage with picturesque views of the East Sussex countryside and Bodiam Castle.
Crowborough, East Sussex
The towns and beaches of the south coast are only 20 miles from this lovely Club Site near the town of Crowborough.
From the bright lights of Brighton Pier to the rolling chalk downlands of the South Downs, Sussex has a massive range of attractions sure to amuse any visitor. This county on the south east coast of England also has a vibrant city scene, bustling market towns, pretty villages and, of course, great country pubs. Whether you want to chill out on the beach, get active in the countryside, explore one of the region's many castles or take in a local pub gig, Sussex will not disappoint.
Sussex has many lovely villages, a stunning coastline and beautiful countryside. Take the Sussex Downs on for exercise, get the wind in your hair at Beachy Head and wander the halls of Arundel Castle. Unmissable stops on your list will be Brighton for its pier and seaside, Lewes' quaint charm and Eastbourne's beachside attractions. Catch an opera at Glyndebourne House before relaxing in one of the best Sussex campsites.
Campsites in East Sussex
Campsites in West Sussex
From the bright lights of Brighton Pier to the rolling chalk downlands of the South Downs, Sussex has a massive range of ways to amuse you. This county on the south east coast of England also has a vibrant city scene, thriving market towns, pretty villages with winding cobbled streets and leading you ton tempting Sussex country pubs. Whether you want to chill out on the beach, explore one of the region's many castles or take in a local pub gig, Sussex will not disappoint.
Don't Miss
Top of any outdoor lovers list will be the South Downs National Park, which encloses a large portion of Sussex. This beautiful natural landscape is sprinkled with famous landmarks. The most famous of these are the Seven Sisters Country Park with its cliffside beach trail and the unforgettable views from the chalk cliffs of Beachy Head near Eastbourne. Only birds better know the feeling of freedom you’ll find at these heights.
Woods Mill Nature Reserve in Henfield is another great place to get outside and explore the woodland and wetland with a keen eye open for local wildlife. Then, once your stomach starts rumbling, Tilgate Park is perfect for strolls and picnics.
A slightly less energetic way to see the Sussex countryside without having to make too much effort is to take a steam train along the 11 mile Bluebell Railway, for a return to the heyday of rail travel. Afterwards, squeeze in space for an afternoon tea on the dining train.
Truly unique sights
The Royal Pavilion in Brighton is something of a one-of-a-kind in Britain with its unusual Indian architecture, be prepared to ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ at its extraordinary and extravagant interiors. Take a tour in the early evening and then watch the sunset behind this surprising building as tourists at the Taj mahal always do.
Centred in the middle of Sussex and only an hour by train from London, lies the county's vibrant and hedonistic cultural hub of Brighton. Come for the pebbly beach, seaside treats and sparkling array of nightlife. Then, get swept up in the independent shops, galleries and eateries which include some of the best vegan food options in the country. Many tourists never step beyond Brighton, but it’s worth bucking the trend to see Sussex’s quaint seaside towns of Saltdean, Shoreham and Worthing.
The small towns of Rye in East Sussex and Arundel in West Sussex both offer an enchanting glimpse into Sussex life with their fine historical buildings surrounded by spectacular countryside. Arundel in particular will instantly remind you of picture postcard country scenes as you enter.
Art is also widely on offer in the region. The excellent Towner Gallery in Eastbourne has exhibitions that rival any in the country, Pallant House Gallery in Chichester is the place to be for modern art, and anyone interested in sculpture should check out the Cass Sculpture Foundation in Goodwood.
Beautiful Glyndebourne is a house set in stunning parkland and gardens, that caters to nothing but opera fans. Get all dressed up to dine in its lush fields beneath the watchful eyes of Sussex lambs, and then watch opera stars bring the heavens down.
Impressive history
If you’re the type who loves the mysteries that a historic house can hold, make time for Petworth House and the Elizabethan finery of Parham House. Sussex hosts the Goodwood Estate where some of the biggest motor sports and horse racing events in the country are held.
You may also wish to visit one of the many museums which give insight into the history of West Sussex and its rich and varied heritage. Weald and Downland Open Air Museum houses over 40 historical buildings, Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre has a huge variety of exhibits and tells the history of industrial heritage in the area. The Noviam in Chichester is also a must see and has collections which span thousands of years of human history.
Casting an eye further back in time, Sussex is known for its majestic Roman and Saxon castles which can be found dotted over the landscape wherever you turn. The 11th century Arundel Castle in the South Downs is the most impressive, worthy of any fairytale, and the medieval Bodiam Castle is impressively well preserved.
Diverse activities
Walkers flock to West Sussex Ashdown Forest for peaceful open spaces, the High Weald Landscape Trail, another Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or the South Downs Way. Here you can visit the hill forts of Cissbury Ring and Chanctonbury Ring and let your curiosity run wild over their long forgotten purpose, or climb Black Hill, the highest hill in Sussex.
With the entire Sussex coastline to enjoy, it’d be rude not to get involved in some watersports. Sailing, swimming, wind and kite surfing, and sea kayaking are all easily available to try. West Wittering is one of the nicest beaches in the region and the local area is good for sailing.
Walking, cycling, horse riding, mountain-biking and paragliding are all very popular, especially in the South Downs National Park and along the South Downs Way National Trail.
Vineyard tours are a great way to explore the countryside in this up and coming English wine region and an opportunity to sample some of the local flavours. Breaky Bottom is a favourite, but Ridgeview and Nutbourne Vineyards are also good and open to the public.
From breakfast through to dinner, Sussex has a diverse range of eateries in between its many attractions. Traditional British pubs can be found in abundance throughout the region in settlements of all sizes; however if you fancy a more modern dining experience, cafes, bistros and restaurants with a broad range of themes and menus can be found in the larger towns and cities.
For great nightlife and a lively list of gigs, shows and events, punters should head towards the larger settlements of Brighton, Worthing and Eastbourne. Audio, Concorde 2 and Lucky Voice Karaoke are all great for a laugh and a dance in Brighton after a tour of the city's diverse range of bars.
Other top attractions
Sussex is chock full of family-friendly amusement parks including the affordable Knockhatch Adventure Park in Hailsham and Treasure Island in Eastbourne.
Drusillas Park with both domestic and exotic animals, is particularly aimed at younger children and has become a top rated day out for little ones with boundless energy.
Sussex has everything nature lovers need with plenty of nature reserves, farms and zoos for younger explorers. The Stoneywish Nature Reserve in Ditchling which has more than 50 acres of fields, play equipment and lakes that are teaming with wildlife..
Harbour Park in Littlehampton is an adventure theme park which will be a hit with children while the Hollycombe Steam collection is another great family friendly day out.