Welcome to the first edition of The Sussex Scroll! This is a new space to spotlight the people, places and stories making waves on Instagram across the county. Seeking out independent coffee shops and sea-swimming spots to ceramicists, stylists and supper clubs, this column is here to celebrate the scroll-worthy.
Each month, I’ll round up a mix of brilliant local accounts worth discovering, along with mini deep-dives into what they’re doing right on social. I could be bringing you a farm shop nailing its visuals or a creative retreat using reels to full effect. The Sussex Scroll is a place to learn, be inspired, and maybe find your new favourite follow.
This month, we’re starting with Instagram, not just because it’s a visual platform, but because of its often-overlooked Map feature. It’s surprisingly useful for discovering Sussex spots that don’t always pop up in a Google search. You can see recent stories, reels, and posts tagged to a specific location, think cafés, galleries, vintage shops, and use that to plan your own visits. If you’ve ever wondered where that dreamy photo was taken, the answer could be tucked away in a geotag.
Top three Sussex Instagram accounts to follow in 2026
As we settle into the new year, there’s so much happening across Sussex that’s worth scrolling for. You might be looking for local inspiration, wild escapes, or ideas to explore the county in fresh ways; these three Instagram accounts are ones I’m keeping a close eye on, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
Sussex Exclusive (@sussexexclusive)
This one needs little introduction if you’ve spent any time on the Sussex social scene or are a reader of this magazine! The Sussex Exclusive Instagram account is a central hub for everything that’s buzzy, beautiful and worth knowing about in our county. It’s a place where lifestyle, culture and local recommendations come together with style and personality. You see gorgeous sunsets over the South Downs, features on events across the county, and snapshots from around towns that make this part of the world special. If you want a consistent, visually rich feed that reminds you what’s on, what’s new, and what’s worth a weekend detour, this should be one of your essential follows. It’s exactly the sort of account that a local business could learn from when thinking about visual storytelling and regional connection.
Knepp Wilding (@kneppwilding)
For anyone with even a passing interest in nature, sustainability, or simply getting outside, Knepp Wilding is an account that captures one of the most compelling environmental stories in the UK right now. Knepp is more than just a place; it’s a pioneering rewilding project in West Sussex that has transformed conventional farmland into a dynamic habitat where species once lost to the landscape are now thriving again, including nightingales and white storks.
On Instagram, Knepp’s visuals are exactly what you’d hope for: sweeping views of wild spaces, close-ups of birds and insects, herd animals grazing free, and raw, honest nature imagery that makes you stop that scroll. If you’re looking to escape the usual curated snapshots and want something that really makes you feel the Sussex countryside, this is it. What I appreciate most about this account is how it makes the scientific and ecological work accessible (and often wonderfully beautiful) without losing the complexity of what’s going on out there in the fields and woods around us.
Pied A Terre Adventures (@piedaterreadventures)
If you prefer to be in motion rather than just observing, Pied A Terre Adventures is the account that will get you out the door with purpose. Based in West Sussex, Pied A Terre Adventures offers inspiring walking activities, courses, and holidays that range from gentle countryside explorations to more ambitious hikes and navigation skills sessions. I’m loving the look of their Dark Skies Walks to see the stars shining brightly over Sussex, with an expert guide to keep me safe in the dark!
Their Instagram feed reflects their ethos beautifully. Expect scenic trails, wide skies, and that unmistakable sense of fresh air you only get when you’re well out of town and on foot. There’s a practical side to what they post too, with tips on navigation, glimpses of group walks, and reminders that walking isn’t just good for your body but great for your headspace. It’s one thing to see an image of a South Downs night sky; it’s another to know you can be there yourself. For anyone in Sussex wanting to reconnect with the outdoors, this account turns inspiration into invitation.
How to use the Instagram Map feature
If you’re someone who likes to explore, the Instagram Map is worth a look. Open the app, tap the search bar, then choose the map icon in the top right. You’ll be shown nearby places that have been tagged in posts, cafes, walks, events, shops, all sorted visually so you can browse what’s catching attention locally.
It’s particularly useful when you’re visiting a new town or planning a weekend in Sussex. You’ll see reels, posts and stories popping up across the county. It’s a bit like a curated local guide, filtered not by an algorithm but by the people already out there exploring.
I use it to discover places I haven’t explored but accounts I know have, see what’s happening at local venues, and get a sense of what’s worth doing. If you’re a business, it’s a great reminder to geotag your content. If you’re a user, it’s a brilliant way to let your feed lead your feet.
About the author
Run by Sussex-based social media strategist Michelle Betts, @byjovemedia is a must-follow for small business owners looking for expert tips without jargon. Michelle’s posts are packed with practical advice, trend insights, and examples of local businesses doing social brilliantly, all delivered in her signature straight-talking style. From content ideas you can actually use, to reminders to show up with intention (not just for the algorithm), this feed balances strategy with personality. Follow for a dose of digital confidence, creative inspiration, and the occasional travel meme! Because marketing should feel good AND work hard.
If there are any Instagram accounts you think we should be adding to our Favourites list, DM Michelle at @byjovemedia or email michelle@byjovemedia.co.uk, and you might see them in a future Sussex Scroll.
For more information about Michelle and By Jove Media, visit:
Michelle Betts of ByJove Media Talks All Things Social Media
