Prettiest Towns and Villages in Sussex
Beach | Coastal Pubs | Cosy | Country Pubs | Countryside | Pub | Pub Accommodation | Posted 2024.07.19
Sussex is a beautiful region in the south of England, encompassing the scenic south coast, the South Downs National Park, and numerous charming towns and villages. In this blog, we explore some of the prettiest towns and villages in Sussex, offering a glimpse into the region’s best spots.
Additionally, we’ll provide recommendations for pubs where you can stay while exploring these areas. Staying in a pub is a fantastic choice as they are integral to the community and culture of the region, allowing you to get to know these places even better.
Rye
Located near the south coast, Rye in Sussex holds a rich history dating back hundreds of years. Initially, a popular fishing hub, Rye faced challenges due to its waterfront location, making it an easy target for attacks and raids from European intruders. With the French and Spanish regularly attacking and raiding, Rye underwent fortification to protect England. The construction of the town wall and four gates—Landgate, Strandgate, Baddings Gate, and Postern Gate—marked the beginning of this defensive transformation. As time went on updates were made to the defence, nonetheless one of the gates remain today; the Landgate. Another defensive structure that remains today in Rye is the Ypres tower, which looks out on the sea and marshes.
Now you can walk through Rye and see the town’s history through the cobbled streets, charming historical houses and secret passageways. The town’s commitment to preserving these historical landmarks has made it a popular destination for those seeking a glimpse into the past. As well as, with the beautiful south coast nearby, Rye is the ideal location for exploring some of the best British beaches.
The Mermaid Inn
Nestled on Rye’s most photographed street, Mermaid Street, The Mermaid Inn has a captivating presence. Along this cobbled street are beautiful medieval buildings adorned with climbing vines. This 600-year-old inn truly encapsulates the essence and charm of Rye. Inside thie pub are sloped ceilings, creaking floorboards and a hidden stairway leading to 31 charming and cosy bedrooms. Additionally, this Inn has a 2 AA Rosette restaurant. The Mermaid Inn is the ideal base for those looking to explore the pretty town of Rye.
Find out more and book The Mermaid Inn
Arundel
Arundel gives you everything you could want from a countryside town in the middle of Sussex. The town has lots of history to learn about, with lots of countryside walks and cycle routes to explore and plenty of arts and culture to delve into.
One great place to learn about the history of Arundel is at The Arundel Castle and Gardens. Arundel Castle was founded in 1067 by Roger de Montgomery. It exemplifies Norman military architecture and Gothic Revival style, featuring a well-preserved motte, medieval keep, and luxurious Victorian interiors. Today it stands as one of England’s oldest and most significant castles and is a must visit when exploring Arundel and West Sussex.
Arundel is the perfect gateway town to the South Downs National Park and is perfectly located to enjoy the surrounding West Sussex countryside. There are plenty of walking paths along the River Arun and around Swanbourne Lake. The huge range of family-friendly activities Arundel has to offer includes mini golf, tennis and rowing boat hire.
The town centre is a lively place with lots of town events, including the 10-day annual Arundel Festival of the Arts. This festival celebrates everything that makes Arundel such a wonderful, inviting and unique place to live, work and visit. At the festival expect entertainment, magicians, circus skills, face painting, dance, music, culture and the arts.
The Swan Hotel
The Swan Hotel sits in the centre of Arundel, opposite the quay. This pub is one of the town’s most popular eateries. With its dog-friendly and family friendly accommodation it’s the ideal choice for those looking to stay in Arundel and explore its many attractions.
Find out more information and book The Swan Hotel.
Eastbourne
Eastbourne is a classic British costal seaside town in East Sussex. The town is filled with beautiful beaches, an iconic pier and plenty of independent shops and businesses.
One of Eastbourne’s most notable attractions is the Victorian Pier, this is fully open and has a brand new walkway. Eastbourne Pier opened in 1872 and is a sought after film and TV location.
Next to Eastbourne is Seven Sisters, these are a series of chalk sea cliffs on the English Channel coast and are a stretch of the sea-eroded section of the South Downs. These iconic cliffs are a great place to walk to from Eastbourne and promise you stunning views of the English Coast.
The Pilot Inn
The Pilot Inn is an award-winning pub located on the western edge of Eastbourne. All of Eastbourne’s attractions are a short walk away and you will be able to walk from the pub to the Seven Sisters cliff face. As soon as you walk inside you enter the characterful dining and bar area, where you can enjoy pub classics and local seafood.
Find out more and book The Pilot Inn
Lewes
Lewes in rural East Sussex is a small town with a big heart. Etymologically tied to the Old English word ‘hlaews’ (meaning ‘hills’ or ‘mounds’), the town is intricately built into the slopes either side of the Ouse Valley.
Lewes has a fascinating history going all the way back to the Saxon times. The Saxons invaded East Sussex in the 5th century and over the next year they founded Lewes. By the 10th century, Lewes had evolved into a thriving hub with weekly markets and nearly 2,000 inhabitants.
Within Lewes, notable landmarks include Lewes Castle, Anne of Cleves House, and a variety of independent shops and eateries. Perched above the medieval streets stands Lewes Castle, built around 1066 by William de Warenne, as his stronghold in Sussex. This castle offers spectacular views of Lewes and its nearby surroundings. Next door is the Barbican House Museum, which tells the history of Sussex life from the Stone Age and contains a model village of Lewes in the 1880s.
The Jolly Sportsman
The Jolly Sportsman extends a warm welcome as a dog-friendly pub, providing an ideal getaway in the pretty town of Lewes. Within its confines, you’ll discover four beautifully appointed bedrooms, crafted for your utmost comfort. Featuring a tasteful dining area, a charming outdoor seating space, and an inviting log fire.
Find out more and book The Jolly Sportsman
Chichester
Chichester is a Roman cathedral city and is the only city in West Sussex. Inside the city you can explore historic streets lined with grade II listed buildings and the medieval city walls.
The city was established as a Roman settlement named Noviomagus Reginorum and served as the capital of the Regni tribe. You can now explore the city’s Roman Baths. The city’s location next to the coast meant it was a great place for facilitating trade and military operations.
In the 11th century the construction of the Chichester Cathedral began and Chichester became an important ecclesiastical centre. Chichester Cathedral replaced the cathedral that was founded in 681 in Selsey, which is about eight miles south of Chichester. The bell tower is detached and this, along with the spire and cloisters of the cathedral, were built around 1400.
One beautiful place to enjoy views of the Cathedral from is Bishops Palace Gardens. There are many places to sit in the gardens, amongst the beautiful borders and flowers, water features and pergola walk.
Other highlights to explore when visiting Chichester include: Pallant House Gallery, Chichester Festival Theatre, The Novium Museum, Priory Park and Weald & Downland Living Museum.
The Black Horse
The Black Horse is just a short drive away from the city of Chichester, it sits in the picturesque coastal village of Climping, between Littlehampton and Bognor Regis. The inside of the pub reflects its beautiful coastal location. The pub features gorgeous bedrooms and lots of cosy spots in the bar and dining area.
Find out more information and book The Black Horse
Brighton
George IV fell in love with Brighton back in the 18th Century, and ever since the city has been a magnet for visitors in search of fun, frolics and fresh sea air. Brighton is well-known for being a welcoming city with a passion for culture, creativity and sustainability as it is for its historic landmarks. Brighton has majestic Regency squares and crescents, the iconic Royal Pavilion and famous piers.
Brighton’s beaches and piers are a popular place to come to, especially on a warm day. The beaches, a mix of pebbles and sand, are backed by colorful beach huts and offer views of picturesque sunsets. The iconic Brighton Palace Pier features amusement rides and arcades.
One historic attraction that is a must visit in Brighton is The Royal Pavillion. This is an exotic palace, originally built for King George IV. This gorgeous palace seamlessly blends Regency grandeur with the visual aesthetics of India and China. The Royal Pavillion now functions as a museum, tourist attraction, art gallery, and wedding venue that you can visit.
The Downs Hotel
The Downs Hotel just sits on the edge of Brighton, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s lively nightlife. The pub features several modern and coastal-themed bedrooms. Some of these rooms have stunning views of the rolling hills and the sea beyond.