If you really want to understand Sussex, it’s worth exploring both sides of the county. Although they share the same rolling South Downs and dramatic coastline, East and West Sussex each have their own distinct personality.
West Sussex is a county of ancient market towns, hidden villages, nooks and crannies, twittens and winding lanes, while East Sussex is defined by sweeping downland, dramatic sea cliffs, open spaces and some of England’s most significant historic sites. This 48-hour itinerary takes you to the four most iconic places in Sussex, whilst capturing the essence of an incredible county.
Your 48-Hour Sussex Itinerary
Day One – Chichester and Brighton
Begin your Sussex adventure in the historic city of Chichester. Explore its magnificent cathedral, Roman walls and independent shops before heading east to Brighton. Spend the afternoon discovering the splendour of the Royal Pavilion, stroll the famous seafront and pier, and enjoy an evening in one of Britain’s most vibrant coastal cities.
Day Two – Seven Sisters, Beachy Head and Battle
Leave Brighton after breakfast and follow one of England’s most spectacular coastal drives. Pause to admire the breathtaking curve of Cuckmere Haven and the Seven Sisters, continue to the dramatic headland at Beachy Head, then journey inland to Battle. Here you’ll discover Battle Abbey and the site of the Battle of Hastings, where one of the most significant events in English history unfolded in 1066.
Chichester
Arrive in Chichester on Friday evening and ease yourself into your Sussex adventure. If you can, book tickets for a performance at the renowned Chichester Festival Theatre, enjoy one of the many concerts and events held throughout the year at Chichester Cathedral, or simply take a peaceful stroll along the Chichester Canal as the sun begins to set.
The following morning, begin exploring one of only two cities in Sussex, where almost 2,000 years of history are woven into everyday life. Founded by the Romans and flourishing through the Norman and medieval periods, Chichester still follows its original Roman street plan and is enclosed by remarkably well-preserved city walls. At its heart stands the magnificent cathedral, founded in 1075 and now approaching its thousandth anniversary. Climb the cathedral tower for panoramic views across the city, the South Downs and the Sussex coast, then wander the historic streets lined with independent shops, cafés and galleries.
If time allows, venture beyond the city to explore the picturesque harbour villages of Chichester Harbour, one of Britain’s most beautiful protected coastal landscapes. Wine lovers should make time for a visit to Ashling Park Estate, while history enthusiasts will be captivated by Fishbourne Roman Palace, home to the largest Roman residence ever discovered in Britain.
Must do in Chichester
Chichester Cathedral – Whether you admire its magnificent architecture, explore its fascinating history and art or climb the cathedral tower for spectacular views, no visit to Chichester is complete without experiencing one of Sussex’s greatest landmarks.
Brighton
From Chichester, head east to Brighton, Sussex’s other city and one of Britain’s most vibrant seaside destinations. Once a small fishing village known as Brighthelmstone, Brighton was transformed in the late 18th century when the Prince Regent – later King George IV – adopted it as his fashionable seaside retreat. Today, it is a city renowned for its creativity, cosmopolitan atmosphere and unmistakable character, where elegant Regency architecture meets independent boutiques, lively cafés and a world-famous seafront.
Although there’s enough here to fill an entire weekend, this itinerary focuses on Brighton’s greatest treasure: the magnificent Royal Pavilion. Built for the Prince Regent between the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the Pavilion is an extraordinary palace. Inspired by Indian and Chinese architecture, its extravagant domes, lavish interiors and beautiful gardens make it unlike anywhere else in the country. It is, quite simply, one of the jewels in Sussex’s crown.
If time permits, take a stroll along the seafront to admire Brighton’s grand Regency hotels, the iconic Brighton Palace Pier and the striking Brighton i360, or lose yourself in the bohemian streets of the North Laine District.
Must do in Brighton
Royal Pavilion – Opulent, extravagant and utterly unforgettable, the Royal Pavilion is one of Britain’s most remarkable royal residences and the defining landmark of Brighton. No visit to Sussex is complete without stepping inside its spectacular rooms.
Seven Sisters and Beachy Head
After an evening enjoying everything Brighton has to offer, spend the night in the city. Dine in one of its outstanding restaurants, experience its legendary nightlife, take a ride on the Brighton i360, or simply enjoy a sunset stroll along the seafront. Leave Brighton after breakfast and follow the A27 east. Ignore the temptation to stay on the main road all the way to Battle, because one of Sussex’s greatest treasures lies just a short detour away.
Pass the turning for Drusillas Park and Alfriston, and continue a little further before taking the turning right for Wilmington. As you drive through the village, look out for the famous Long Man of Wilmington, the giant chalk figure carved into the South Downs that has watched over the landscape for centuries. Continue through Litlington – perhaps pausing for a pint at the Long Man Brewery – before following the road alongside Friston Forest to Exceat and Cuckmere Haven.
Turn left onto the A259 and prepare for one of the finest coastal drives in Sussex. The road hugs the edge of the South Downs, revealing breathtaking views across Cuckmere Haven and the magnificent white cliffs of the Seven Sisters. Continue to East Dean and turn right towards Birling Gap, where towering chalk cliffs meet the sea. From here, the road climbs past the iconic Belle Tout Lighthouse before reaching Beachy Head, England’s highest chalk sea cliff. Take time to stop, breathe in the sea air and admire one of the most spectacular views anywhere in the country.
When you’re ready, continue and rejoin the A259 and then the A27 and follow the signs north to Battle, where the final chapter of your Sussex adventure begins.
Battle
Your final destination is Battle, one of the most significant places not only in Sussex but in all of England. It was here, in 1066, that the Battle of Hastings changed the course of British history. On this battlefield, King Harold fell, paving the way for William, Duke of Normandy, to become William the Conqueror and King of England. In remembrance of the thousands who lost their lives, William ordered the construction of the magnificent Battle Abbey, much of which still stands today.
Begin your visit by exploring the abbey and its extensive grounds. Walk the famous battlefield, climb the ancient gatehouse and towers, and imagine the events that unfolded almost a thousand years ago. Beyond the abbey walls, Battle is an attractive market town with a handsome High Street lined with independent cafés, galleries, historic buildings and traditional shops, leading to the town museum at its far end.
Must do in Battle
Battle Abbey – Walk the battlefield of 1066, explore the abbey ruins and discover the place where the future of England was decided.
Before heading home, there’s just enough time for one final taste of Sussex. Stretch your legs with a walk through Battle Great Wood along a section of the 1066 Country Walk, or celebrate your journey with a glass of award-winning English wine at a nearby vineyard such as Oastbrook Estate Vineyard or Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard. Then make your way back to Battle station and begin planning your next Sussex adventure.
Whether you’ve been captivated by Roman history, enchanted by royal palaces, awed by soaring white cliffs or inspired by the story of 1066, you’ll have discovered just a small part of what makes Sussex such an extraordinary county. The only question now is: when will you come back to uncover the rest?
If you’ve enjoyed your 48 hours in Sussex, you might also like:
