A to Z bucket list of things to do and places to see for a true Sussex experience

There is so much to see and do in Sussex, and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding on anything.

With this in mind, we have created an A to Z bucket list, full of things you can enjoy to get a true Sussex experience.

Take a look and see how many you can tick off, and maybe consider some of the things you can’t as what to do on your next day out.

Some of these were a little tricky, so you’ll have to forgive me.

A to Z bucket list to enjoy a true Sussex experience

A – Arundel Castle

A restored and remodelled medieval castle in West Sussex, packed with history and things to explore.

It holds various events throughout the year, and you can also explore the town of Arundel while in the area.

B – Brighton Pier

This one feels obvious, but being one of the main piers and attractions in Brighton, it had to make the list.

From your classic rides and attractions to seaside food, there is fun for all the family, perfect as we head towards summer.

C – Chichester Cathedral

Another stunning historic building, Chichester is the seat of the Anglican Bishop of Chichester, and was founded as a cathedral in 1075.

A post shared by Chichester Cathedral (@chicathedral)

Whether it is to worship, explore history through a tour, or experience other events there, it is a great spot to add to your list.

D – Devil’s Dyke

Another one that may feel obvious, but this spot in the South Downs is one of the most iconic that anyone there should visit, particularly for its views.

It is a 100-metre deep V-shaped dry valley, managed by the National Trust, and is also part of the Beeding Hill to Newtimber Hill Site of Special Scientific Interest.

E – Eastbourne Pier

The second pier to make the list, this Victorian spot has a variety of shops, as well as a chip shop, cafe, bar and tea room.

It has also been a film and TV location used in Angus Thongs & Perfect Snogging, Poirot, A Place in the Sun, Art Attack and Flog It.

F – Fishbourne Roman Palace

The palace is the largest known Roman residence north of the Alps, and is another fantastic historical spot to explore.

It is an excavated villa with floor mosaics and recreated Roman-style gardens, with workshops to take you back in time.

G – Goodwood Estate

Found in the heart of West Sussex, you will likely know this spot as the home of the world-famous Festival of Speed, Goodwood Revival and Glorious Goodwood.

But you can also visit and relax in its charming cottages, The Goodwood Hotel or the Hound Lodge and discover all the estate has to offer, from sporting pursuits to wellbeing experiences and delicious farm-to-fork dining.

H – Hastings Old Town

A short walk from Hastings’ main town, this spot is tucked between two cliffs and has so much to enjoy.

From top pubs and ancient churches to various independent gems, you’ll love a trip to this charming seaside spot.

I – i360 Brighton

Travel 450ft high in Europe’s tallest moving platform to enjoy 360 views of Brighton and beyond.

The i360 tower offers incredible 360 views around Brighton and beyond (Image: Getty Images)

It is perfect for sightseeing, photography, or a sunset adventure, watching the city unfold below.

J – Jubilee Clock Tower

We found our first tricky letter, but this is a nice landmark to see if you are in Brighton.

The Clock Tower was built in 1888 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, with English Heritage listing the clock tower at Grade II for its architectural and historical importance.

K – Knepp Rewilding Estate

Isabella Tree owns Knepp with her husband Charlie Burrell, with the couple halting conventional farming on their estate in 2000 and embarking on “rewilding” the estate.

From guided safaris to glamping options, you can get up close to nature here.

L – Lewes Castle

Originally called Bray Castle, this historic structure occupies a commanding position guarding the gap in the South Downs.

A post shared by Lewes Castle & Museum (@lewescastle)

You can enjoy great views at the top, with the Barbican House Museum next door providing an exciting look back through time.

M – Michelham Priory House & Gardens

Founded in 1229, there are fascinating displays of furniture and artefacts to see, all set in seven acres of beautiful grounds and buildings.

There is also an on-site cafe, and chances to feed the ducks during a walk around the moat.

N – Nymans

One for the garden lovers, this National Trust-owned site was developed, starting in the late nineteenth century, by three generations of the Messel family, and was brought to renown by Leonard Messel.

There is a manor house, garden and ancient woodland to see, as well as a cafe and playground too.

O – Ouse Valley Viaduct

The Ouse Valley Viaduct carries the Brighton Main Line over the River Ouse, found north of Haywards Heath.

The Ouse Valley Viaduct stands tall over the High Weald (Image: Getty Images)

Originally built in 1838, it stands tall over the High Weald area and is a great spot for photographers.

P – Petworth House

Another National Trust site, this 17th-century house has one of the finest art collections, all nestled in a 700-acre deer park.

There is also a cafe, gift shop and second-hand bookshop on-site as well.

Q – Queen’s Park

Another Brighton spot added to the list, this is perfect for a picnic, stroll or general relaxation.

There is also a wildlife garden planted by a local herbalist and a pond at its centre to enjoy.

R – Rye

We couldn’t narrow down anything in Rye in particular, as this whole cobbled coastal town has so much to do.

From Mermaid Street, one of the most picturesque in the country, to visiting the haunted Mermaid Inn or a trip to the harbour or nearby Camber Sands, take your pick.

S – Seven Sisters

Perhaps another that felt quite obvious, these now-famous white chalked cliffs along the coast are a must-visit.

A walk along them offers some of the best views you may ever see, and will help towards that 10,000-step goal too!

T – Tangmere Military Aviation Museum

Found on the former site of RAF Tangmere in West Sussex, the museum was opened in 1982.

Its stunning aerospace exhibits cover the First World War to the Cold War, and include fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters and aircraft engines.

U – Uckfield

This attractive market town is on the southern boundary of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Uckfield is a great town to explore in Sussex (Image: Getty Images)

As well as plenty to do in the town, the River Uck goes through part of the town, and there is Ashdown Forest nearby, offering perfect places for walks.

V – Virginia Woolf’s Monk’s House

Ok, kind of cheating, but Monk’s House is another beautiful spot with plenty of history attached to it.

Nestled in the heart of rural Sussex, this cottage was inhabited by Leonard and the novelist Virginia Woolf from 1919 until Leonard’s death in 1969.

W – West Wittering beach

We had to have a beach on the list, and what better than this gem on the West Sussex coast?

This award-winning stretch of coastline is renowned for its natural beauty, rich history, and commitment to conservation.

X – eXtreme views in the South Downs

Ignore the tenuous link, but the South Downs offer some stunning views.

A post shared by South Downs National Park (@southdownsnp)

Black Down is the highest point in the South Downs at 280 metres above sea level, offering incredible countryside views.

Y – Yapton

This historic village is between the South Downs and the coastal resorts of Littlehampton and Bognor Regis.

It is home to hidden gem pubs, a historic church and nice walking routes.

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