Top 10 Sights in Brighton and Sussex

Arundel Castle in Arundel West Sussex
Arundel Castle in Arundel West Sussex. Photo: Shutterstock


1 Royal Pavilion

This outrageously extravagant seaside palace was built for the Prince Regent in the 1820s and comes highly recommended by our friends at Visit Britain. (The Music Room is said to be a real stunner.) No trip to Brighton is complete without visiting this local landmark.


The Royal Pavilion, built for King George IV in the early 19C at Brighton, Sussex, England. Photo: Shutterstock


2 South Downs Way

Britain’s first designated long-distance bridleway and a popular path for walkers of all abilities. 

3 Lewes

The scene of battles since Saxon times and today best known for its explosive Guy Fawkes celebrations. 


Lewes. Photo: Shutterstock


4 Brighton Festival

One of Britain’s biggest and most varied arts festivals, with drama, comedy and music staged in venues throughout the town. 


Brighton & Hove Pride Festival. Photo: Shutterstock


5 Bloomsbury in Sussex

The Bloomsbury Set started in London but ended up in the country. The former home of Virginia and Leonard Woolf, Monk’s House in Rodmell, is now a National Trust property. 

6 Chichester Cathedral

Founded in 1076, this Gothic-Romanesque cathedral is known for its graceful interior and vibrant stained glass. 

7 Petworth House

One of England’s finest stately homes, and home to paintings by Van Dyck, Gainsborough, Blake and Turner. 

8 Sussex Heritage Coast

This magnificent stretch of coastline between Seaford and Eastbourne includes the imposing chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head. 


Coast Guard Cottages & Seven Sisters. Photo: Shutterstock


9 Eastbourne seafront

A fashionable Victorian seaside resort and still a popular tourist destination, this genteel town boasts some fine Victorian buildings along its seafront. 


Aerial view of the Eastbourne Pier. Photo: Shutterstock


10 Arundel Wetland Centre

A beautiful spot to see Sussex wildlife with reed beds, boat safaris and great activities for kids. 


As far as local cuisine goes, Becky Padmore of Global Grasshopper has nothing but good things to say.

"We recommend Food for Friends, the award-winning vegetarian restaurant located in Brighton's famous historic South Lanes," she tells Insight Guides. "They serve up tasty homemade food sans meat in a cosy, relaxed atmosphere. They also offer vegan and gluten-free options."


To learn more about sights and attractions in and around Brighton, read our Brighton Travel Guide or visit our online shop to purchase a copy of Great Breaks Brighton.