Culture Trip’s Guide to Sussex in Spring

A trip to South East England is a trip into quintessential countrysides and coastlines, as well as rich medieval history. Once it’s own kingdom in the sixth century, remnants of an Anglo Saxon era can still be found.

It’s also statistically got more sunshine than anywhere else in the UK, which lends to the success of the county’s vineyards. And don’t forget to pack the swimming gear for a Spring dip in the English Channel when visiting one of the county’s beautiful beaches.

Choose from a whole range of places to stay, from romantic hotels in Brighton to the best bed and breakfasts in Eastbourne. We’ve hand-picked some of our favourites below.

No other historical landmark defines the British medieval period quite like the archetypal Bodiam Castle, which features in our list of the 15 most beautiful castles in the world. Its iconic circular towers, ramparts, gatehouse and surrounding moat were all features constructed to defend against the French invasion in the 14th-century. The grounds are open to visit and you can bring your furry friend along for the adventure too. As well as the building itself, there are sleepy meadows and an abundance of wildlife that are best enjoyed during Spring. The castle can be found near Robertsbridge in East Sussex, just over an hour’s drive from London.

You’ll want to bring the bodyboard for this one – and not just for the waves. Camber Sands has some of the largest dunes on the south coast. It’s also one of the few sandy beaches in Sussex. Bring a picnic with a bucket and spade for a family-fun day on the beach. Kite-surfing is also a popular activity here for those that are more inclined to a faster pace of life. Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, Camber Castle and Broomhill Sands are all nearby if you want to explore the East Sussex area near Rye further.

Funfairs, fish and chips and a stroll along the Victorian pier, all the makings of a fun-filled seaside holiday. Eastbourne is also the sunniest place in the UK, has award-winning beaches and is only an hour and a half from London, by train and car. Entry into the Towner contemporary art museum is free and there’s a unique 200-year-old round fortress called the Redoubt that is worth a visit, no doubt. Sovereign Harbour is lovely to walk around on a warm day or set up base on the beach. One of the real highlights here though is afternoon tea, along with a browse in the gift shops, on the pier.

Discover the places that inspired the tales of Winnie-the-Pooh at this vast, ancient stretch of countryside and woodland. What used to be deer hunting grounds in Norman times is now the High Weald Area of Outstanding Beauty with a huge amount of different protected wildlife species. The Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club is one of the oldest courses in the country, having been founded in 1888. Escape the city in just over an hour for fresh air and spectacular scenery.

Head to the South Downs coastline where you’ll find this collection of dramatic chalk cliffs, open grasslands and meandering river valleys. Seven Sister Country Park is perfect for a long hike. It’s just under eight miles and takes around six hours to walk the entire thing. The views along the way of the impressive geological formation and the crashing Channel way below are nothing short of breathtaking. Visit Cuckmere Haven Beach along the way, a quiet, pet-friendly seaside spot near the town of Seaford.