East Sussex
East Sussex has long been where creative minds go to escape the conventional. Its rolling hills, ancient forests and dramatic coastlines are studded with artist’s gardens, locally-sourced culinary delights and some of England’s most exciting wines.
Sussex sparkling is leading the charge in English fizz… but wait till you try the still wines
A new generation of gastronomists is raiding the county’s natural larder for their must-try menus
The landscape, climate and cultural heritage are the inspiration for picturesque historic estates and quirky artist’s gardens
Itineraries in East Sussex
Our planned itineraries are the easiest way to discover exciting attractions and places to stay. Explore itineraries by theme, and choose which places that fit your budget or length of stay...
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Featured attractions
From guided tours of gardens, to five star dining and unique spots to rest your head, choose from our selection of days out and places to stay, and start planning your adventure.
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Charleston
Visit the rural home of artists Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant which was the gathering point for some of the 20th century’s most radical artist, writers and thinkers
Rathfinny Estate
A family-owned Wine Estate, established in 2010 by Mark and Sarah Driver, dedicated to producing some of the world’s finest sparkling wines from a single-site vineyard in Sussex, England.
Cadence Cycle Club
The unique, guided cycling tours take in points of interest in the local area on high quality e-bikes designed for the terrain.
About East Sussex
There seems to be a surprise around every corner in East Sussex. Drop a pin anywhere in the map and you’re never far from something unexpected or experimental. Chances are there will be a boundary-pushing vineyard nearby with world-class wines ready for you in the tasting room. The county does an impeccable line in artisanal beers too.
In recent years, many top chefs have cottoned on to the quality of East Sussex produce, leading to an explosion of locally-sourced menus in restaurants, gastropubs, farm shops and pop-ups around the county. If you want to get back to nature yourself, there are some spectacular gourmet foraging experiences to get stuck into.
As for gardens? Well, East Sussex is one sprawling natural playground. The South Downs, High Weald, Ashdown Forest, Seven Sisters and Rye Harbour Nature Reserve are among England’s most breathtaking landscapes. No wonder the likes of the Bloomsbury Group, Lee Miller and Roland Penrose were inspired to set up home here, and create delightful artist’s gardens in the process.
Getting here and around
Gatwick Airport (West Sussex but direct trains to Lewes and Eastbourne)
Newhaven - Dieppe ferry
Lewes (county town) little over an hour from London by car (M23) or train (London Victoria, London Bridge - both Southern Rail)
Cycle routes throughout county
Bluebell Railway is a fun/pictureseque way to enter the county from Uckfield