2026 is going to be a good year. And to help make it even better, why not make time to explore Sussex and experience some of the amazing opportunities the county has on offer. Sussex is only an hour from London and yet combines vast, open spaces and views, winding rivers, the nooks and crannies of its woodlands and forests and a history that changed the course of the whole country. You’ll find tales of smugglers, outstanding local produce, quirky local traditions, sandy beaches and fascinating architecture. So to help you try and get the best out of the county, here are some suggestions of the best things to do in Sussex 2026.
Walk a trail
The county is criss crossed with some amazing long distance trails many of which take you via sculptures, historic towns and churches, vineyards and drovers ways. Take your pick from the snaking and twisting Serpent Trail in West Sussex, the King Charles III Coastal Trail right along the coast, the historic 1066 Country Walk in East Sussex or walk the iconic South Downs Way. You don’t have to walk your chosen trail all at once. You can break each trail down into chunks and spread out your walks over the year.
Go island hopping at Chichester Harbour
Chichester Harbour is a stunning natural harbour with a series of peninsulas. There are lots of corners and quirks to explore along with remote coastal paths, salt beds, sandy beaches and hidden marinas. Walk around the coastal paths of Chidham and Bosham, or cycle the Salterns Way from Chichester and hop on the tiny ferry at Itchenor back to Bosham. Make sure you stop at Chichester Cathedral on your way home and see their incredible Chichester950 exhibition.
Go on a Sussex wine tour
With over 130 vineyards, Sussex is producing some world class wines which include white and red wines as well as the trademark Sussex sparkling wine. Many of the Sussex vineyards now offer tours, tastings and other experiences. You can focus on one vineyard, join an organised wine tour which takes in three vineyards or follow one of our Sussex wine tour itineraries.
Pamper yourself at a luxury hotel
Oh yes, if you want a little bit of luxury and relaxation, Sussex is the place to head. From gorgeous spas right on the coast like Bailiffscourt at Climping and The Gallivant at Camber Sands, to tree top retreats and lakeside pods (South Lodge), and country houses set in secluded grounds, Sussex is home to some world class hotels and wellness centres.
Become a culture vulture
Discover the great artists and creatives who have made Sussex their home. From Ravilious and the Bloomsbury Set to the Surrealists of Farley House and the walks of Hilaire Belloc and Eric Slater. Follow one of our Sussex Exclusive cultural itineraries or make a note to visit some of the stellar art galleries in the county like the Hastings Contemporary, The Towner in Eastbourne or Pallant House in Chichester.
Take up an extreme sport
Next up on our list of the best things to do in Sussex in 2026, is high octane sport. Try kiteboarding off the Sussex coast or paragliding off the Downs. Strap in for motor racing at Goodwood or zip wires and bungee jumping in Brighton. Learn to fly a plane at Shoreham or go rock climbing at Harrison’s Rock.
Indulge your inner foodie
Sussex isn’t just producing great wine, and its unique geology and coastal position mean it’s ideal for a number of different crops and livestock. With venison, beef, lamb and pork all farmed in the county, and an abundance of forageable ingredients from mushrooms and truffles to wild berries and seafood, Sussex also attracts some top chefs. That means you can enjoy everything from Michelin-star tasting menus to field-to-fork experiences, Sussex-inspired dishes and wonderful local markets. If you need more inspiration, try one of our foodie trails that blend food with folklore.
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