Finding rainy day things to do in West Sussex isn’t always easy, particularly during winter as many attractions close for the season. These five short rainy-day itineraries offer a mix of art, history, shopping and experiences to tempt you out. We’ve kept you indoors as much as possible, but you’ll still need your raincoat for the journeys between venues, and some stops require a car. Check opening days and book any tours, tastings or performances before setting off. We’ve also included some favourite places for lunch, coffee or cake along the way.
Arundel
For things to do in Arundel, start at the museum, where you can discover the fascinating history of this beautiful historic town. The museum is open daily, although it closes from 24–28 December, opens again on 29 and 30 December, and reopens on 2 January.
Next, pop into Arundel Arts, Crafts and Antiques Market in Nineveh House on Tarrant Street. Housed in a Grade II listed 19th-century former Congregational chapel, it’s a treasure trove of independent stalls and small shops selling antiques, arts, crafts and collectables. Perfect for a little rainy day browsing.
Finally, head halfway up the High Street to Digby Fine English, home to the UK’s first high street cellar door, for a spot of English sparkling wine tasting. The tasting room is open Thursday to Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
Something to eat
For a leisurely lunch, try The Parsons Table. For coffee or a lighter bite, head to the aptly named Motte & Bailey Café on the High Street, a lovely pause between browsing and exploring.
Worthing
Rainy days are the perfect excuse to explore some of Worthing‘s indoor attractions. Start at Worthing Museum and Art Gallery, which has recently undergone refurbishment and is home to a fascinating collection of art, artefacts and local history, along with an ever-changing programme of exhibitions. It’s open Wednesday to Saturday.
Then head to Artful, a colourful pottery painting café on New Street, where you can paint, sip and get creative. Booking is essential, so plan ahead. Finally, make your way to the Dome Cinema on Marine Parade, one of the oldest working cinemas in the country, with its wonderful period charm and Art Deco-style interiors and settle down there for a film.
Something to eat
My Worthing favourite is Crab Shack, and I’d recommend booking ahead. For coffee or brunch, Malt Café on Montague Street is wonderfully central. Apple, cinnamon and maple syrup pancakes with mascarpone, or bacon and banana French toast, might tempt you to linger over more than a coffee.
Chichester
There’s no shortage of things to do in Chichester on a rainy day. Start at the Novium Museum in Tower Street, right in the heart of the city. Discover the remains of a Roman bathhouse on the ground floor, explore the people and places that shaped Chichester on the first floor, and enjoy contemporary and major exhibitions on the second. General admission is free, and it’s open Tuesday to Saturday. Alternatively, head just outside the city to Fishbourne Roman Palace to discover some of Britain’s finest Roman mosaics.
Next, visit Pallant House Gallery, a fantastic modern art gallery with an outstanding collection of British art. Then make your way to Chichester Cathedral, where you can admire its extraordinary architecture, discover its art treasures or join a guided tour. And don’t forget to check what’s on at Chichester Festival Theatre. There’s always something worth seeing!
Something to eat
My favourite Chichester hangout is Ghost at the Feast, a funky, relaxed food hall with a rotating selection of street-food vendors. For something a little more dressed up, try The Ivy.
Horsham
Don’t let the rain stop you getting active in Horsham! Start your day at Horsham Golf, where you’ll find a fantastic 16-bay covered, heated and floodlit driving range, complete with cutting-edge FlightScope radar technology. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced golfer, you can practise your swing, play virtual golf courses or take on fun challenges, from blowing up boats to splashing into shark-infested swimming pools! Prices start at just £6 for range balls.
Next, head just outside Horsham to Firebird Brewery in Rudgwick for a behind-the-scenes brewery tour. Discover the history and science of brewing, explore the brewhouse and enjoy a guided tasting of three Firebird beers. Tours run on selected Saturdays, so book ahead. Alternatively, check out their Thursday evening events, from bring-your-own-vinyl nights to quizzes and open mic nights.
Finally, head back into Horsham and finish your day at The Capitol, which reopens in November 2026 following a major refurbishment. Check out what’s on and round off your rainy day with a fantastic show.
Something to eat
For a little posh nosh without breaking the bank, head to FELIX Bistro in Horsham’s Market Square, where bold modern European cooking meets influences from Asia and the Middle East. It’s open for dinner Tuesday to Saturday and lunch Wednesday to Saturday. And if you’re after a really good coffee, I’d head to Chez Polie in Highwood Village, just on the outskirts of town.
East Grinstead
Start your day with a little adventure at Volume 1 Climbing on the Birches Industrial Estate in Felbridge. With over 200 bouldering challenges, a gym, training area, climbing shop and café all under one roof, there’s something for everyone, from complete beginners to experienced climbers. No previous experience is needed, so why not give it a go?
After an energetic morning, head just south of East Grinstead to Standen House and Garden, a beautiful National Trust Arts and Crafts house. Spend an afternoon exploring its wonderful interiors, with their William Morris wallpapers, textiles and furnishings. It’s fascinating all year round but particularly magical at Christmas.
Finally, head into East Grinstead for an evening at Chequer Mead Theatre. This intimate theatre has a fantastic programme of live entertainment, from comedy and music to plays, musicals and pantomimes. Check what’s on and finish off your rainy day with a show.
Something to eat
For an inexpensive coffee and cake, try The Mug Tree on Ship Street, a family-run, award-winning café that also serves afternoon tea. For lunch, head just outside East Grinstead to Kingscote Vineyard.
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