Top 10 things to do in West Sussex
West Sussex has the cathedral city of Chichester, the castle town of Arundel, sandy beaches and a long stretch of the South Downs.
- 1
Arundel Castle
📍 ArundelHistory, gardensA hilltop castle above the River Arun with gardens and a restored keep. Check seasonal opening.
- 2
Chichester Cathedral
📍 ChichesterHistory, indoorsA medieval cathedral in the centre of Chichester, with notable art and a cloister.
- 3
Fishbourne Roman Palace
📍 Near ChichesterHistory, indoorsThe remains of a large Roman palace, with some of the best mosaic floors in Britain.
- 4
West Dean Gardens
📍 Near ChichesterGardensLarge gardens with a walled kitchen garden and Victorian glasshouses, on a country estate.
- 5
Petworth House
📍 PetworthHouse, deer parkA grand house with a major art collection and a large deer park.
- 6
Weald and Downland Living Museum
📍 SingletonHistory, familiesAn open-air museum of historic buildings rescued from across the region.
- 7
Arundel Wetland Centre
📍 ArundelWildlife, familiesA WWT wetland reserve with birds, boat trips and easy walks.
- 8
West Wittering Beach
📍 West WitteringBeachA wide stretch of firm sand and dunes on the Selsey peninsula, popular in summer.
- 9
Parham House
📍 Near PulboroughHouse, gardensAn Elizabethan house with gardens and parkland beneath the South Downs. Check opening days.
- 10
Goodwood
📍 Near ChichesterEvents, countrysideA large estate known for motor racing, horse racing and events. Check what’s on before you go.
Where to base yourself
Last checked: October 2026.