Top Holiday Attractions in East Sussex - what to do, where to go and what to see
If you are heading to East Sussex for a cottage holiday or self catering short break we have compiled some of the must see places and the best things to do. Whether you are looking for some family fun, visit relaxing and peaceful gardens or immerse yourself in the history and culture of East Sussex then take a look at some great ideas below.
And, if you are still to book your self catering accommodation we have listed some great East Sussex cottages and apartments close to the attractions and available direct from independent owners and leading holiday operators.
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Bodiam Castle, Bodium
Attractions in East Sussex
One of the most famous and evocative castles in Britain, Bodiam was built in 1385 as both a defence and a comfortable home. The exterior is virtually complete and the ramparts rise dramatically above the moat. Enough of the interior survives to give an impression of castle life.
Royal Pavilion, Brighton
Attractions in East Sussex
The Royal Pavilion, the famous seaside palace of King George IV, is one of the most exotically beautiful buildings in the British Isles. The magnificent decorations and fantastic furnishings at the Royal Pavilion fill it with astonishing colours and superb craftsmanship.
Eastbourne Pier, Eastbourne
Attractions in East Sussex
Jutting out into the sea from the middle of Eastbourne Seafront the Pier, built in the 1870's, has much to offer. Camera Obscura is an original 360 degree Victorian projector, the only pier with a fully functioning attraction of this type.
The Observatory Science Centre, Hailsham
Attractions in East Sussex
The Observatory Science Centre is unique because of its connection with astronomy. The copper clad domes and historic telescopes give the buildings a special atmosphere with hands-on exhibits, activities and science shows.
How We Lived Then Museum of Shops, Eastbourne
Attractions in East Sussex
More than 100,000 exhibits of old shops, displays and room sets depicting 100 years of shopping and social history. Stroll through Victorian-styles streets and pay a visit to the grocer, chemist and many more.
Smugglers Adventure, Hastings
Attractions in East Sussex
A hands-on opportunity to learn more about the secrets of smugglers in a series of spooky caverns and passages. Find out what happened when smugglers got caught and how they were punished.
Brighton Sea Life Centre, Brighton
Attractions in East Sussex
For a fun and educational day out, visit Brighton Sea life Centre. Walk through the Underwater Tunnel, be amazed by the fantastic Ocean Tank and get close up to sharks, rays, giant sea turtles and tropical fish.
Stoneywish Nature Reserve, Ditchling
Attractions in East Sussex
Within sight of the South Downs and close to the historic village of Ditchling, the 50 acres of Stoneywish offer a magical retreat from the rush of modern living. Here you will find a corner of Sussex countryside as it used to be, meadows, wetlands and woodland full of native flowers and home to a wealth of wildlife, in addition to our own farm animals.
Newhaven Fort, Newhaven
Attractions in East Sussex
An award-winning attraction and a fine example of an English fortification, Newhaven Fort has the sights, sounds - even the smells - of the period, all found in a range of exhibitions and audio-visual presentations.
Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park
Attractions in East Sussex
The Bluebell Railway is a heritage Steam Railway running through the glorious Sussex countryside. It operates standard-gauge steam trains through nine miles of countryside between Sheffield Park, Horsted Keynes and Kingscote.
Planet Earth Museum and Sussex History Trail, Newhaven
Attractions in East Sussex
Planet Earth Museum & Sussex History Trail is one of the finest museums of its type in the country with life size moving dinosaurs and interactive displays.
Drusillas Park, Eastbourne
Attractions in East Sussex
Drusillas Park has more that 100 animal species in naturalistic environments including meerkats, otters, monkeys, penguins, bats and lemurs. There is an excellent children's play area.
Battle Abbey and Battlefield, Battle
Attractions in East Sussex
For a memorable family day out in Sussex visit Battle Abbey, set on the site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings. It's an enjoyable way to discover more about the most famous date in English history. There is a children's themed outdoor play area, a battlefield and audio tour of the abbey.
Paradise Park, Newhaven
Attractions in East Sussex
Discover ‘Planet Earth' for an unforgettable experience. A unique Museum of life, Dinosaur Safari, beautiful water garden with fish and wildfowl, themed gardens and Heritage Trail. Playzone includes crazy gold and adventure play areas.
Mohair Centre, Lewes
Attractions in East Sussex
The Mohair Centre is a working farm with an Ofsted registered holiday play scheme and nursery on site. This children's farm has Angora goats and other farm animals. Watch the lambing and kidding in the spring.
Seven Sisters Counrty Park, Exceat
Attractions in East Sussex
A great location for outdoor activities, including family cycle routes, guided bike tours and canoe tuition for all abilities. Visit in spring to see newborn lambs on the working farm.
Bateman's, Burwash
Attractions in East Sussex
Surrounded by the wooded landscape of the Sussex Weald, this 17th-century house, with its mullioned windows and oak beams, provided a much needed sanctuary for the world-famous writer Rudyard Kipling. The rooms, described by him as 'untouched and unfaked', remain much as he left them, with oriental rugs and artefacts reflecting his strong association with the East.
Hastings Castle and 1066 Story, Hastings
Attractions in East Sussex
Come to the first Norman castle in Britain. At Hastings you can enjoy a spectacular audio-visual show, the 1066 Story, in a medieval siege tent, and explore the dungeons carved out of solid rock beneath the North Gate.
Looking for Accommodation close to East Sussex
If you are looking to spend a short break or holiday in East Sussex there is a lot of great quality self catering accommodation, ranging from apartments and cottages to lodges and chalets, to choose from. Of course, you will also find some lovely guest houses, bed and breakfast and hotels in East Sussex. Find out more by using the links below:
- Self catering cottages and apartments in East Sussex
- Lodges in East Sussex
- Holiday parks in East Sussex
- B&B and Guest House in East Sussex
- Hotels in East Sussex
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