There’s something special about escaping London for the East Sussex countryside. Just an hour or so by train or car, and suddenly you’re surrounded by rolling hills, coastal cliffs, medieval towns and historic castles. It’s one of those places that feels both wonderfully rural and full of life, making it the perfect destination whether you’re after a day trip, a long weekend, or a slow holiday by the sea.
I spent a week exploring East Sussex with Papa Shepherd and Poppy, basing ourselves on a charming little farm near the town of Battle. Between woodland walks, coastal breezes and medieval ruins, it quickly became one of my favourite UK countryside escapes. Here are some of the best places to visit in East Sussex and a few personal highlights from our trip.
Tips for exploring the East Sussex countryside
Getting there: East Sussex is just 1–1.5 hours by train from London (from London Bridge, Victoria or Charing Cross to towns like Battle, Lewes or Brighton). Driving gives you more freedom to explore the countryside at your own pace.
When to go: Spring and summer bring wildflowers, warm weather and long evenings, while autumn is perfect for colourful walks through the countryside. Winter can be charming too, especially if you enjoy bracing seaside walks and cosy pubs.
What to pack: Comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, and layers — the English weather is famously changeable. A picnic blanket is also a must for cliff-top or vineyard lunches.
Best places to visit in East Sussex
1. Herstmonceux Castle and gardens
We began our adventure at Herstmonceux Castle, a striking 15th-century red-brick fortress surrounded by a moat and acres of manicured gardens. The grounds are a joy to wander, from the scented Herb Garden to the towering chestnut trees and the whimsical Magic Garden with its fairy houses and giant mushrooms.
It’s a lovely spot for a relaxed afternoon, whether you’re picnicking by the moat, strolling through the woodland trails, or simply admiring the castle’s fairy-tale silhouette. Check ahead for opening times and seasonal events, as the gardens often host festivals and open days.
2. Rye
The historic town of Rye feels like stepping back in time. Cobbled streets wind between crooked medieval houses, independent boutiques and cosy tearooms. We spent hours browsing antique shops and art galleries, before settling into one of Rye’s many country pubs for a hearty Sunday roast – an absolute must!
For views worth the climb, head up the bell tower at St Mary’s Church. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, stop at one of the town’s old-fashioned sweet shops for fudge or homemade chocolate.
3. Bodiam Castle
Bank Holiday Monday blessed us with sunshine, so we made our way to Bodiam Castle. These romantic 14th-century ruins, complete with turrets, a moat and medieval archways, feel like they’ve leapt straight from a storybook.
Walking through the grounds, we were welcomed by music that transported us back to the Middle Ages. Climb the original spiral staircases to reach the towers, where the views stretch over the East Sussex countryside. It’s one of the most atmospheric castles you’ll find in England.
4. Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard
If you love wine, make time for Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard, one of England’s oldest organic vineyards. We wandered through bluebell woods and vine-covered hills before sampling a flight of wines in their tasting room. My surprise favourite was the 2013 Gem of the Weald, a beautifully sweet rosé with hints of strawberry and raspberry.
The vineyard also offers guided tours, and you can pick up a few bottles to take home — the perfect souvenir from East Sussex.
5. Hastings Old Town & Battle
No trip to the coast is complete without a salty breeze, so we headed to Hastings Old Town. The weather was blustery, but wandering past fishing huts and colourful boats gave us that quintessential seaside fix.
Just inland, Battle Abbey marks the site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings. Walking across the historic battlefield, with rabbits darting between the hedgerows, felt like a gentle step into one of England’s most famous stories.
6. Brighton
A little further along the coast is Brighton, one of the UK’s best-loved seaside towns. We started at the Royal Pavilion, an exotic 19th-century palace with domes and chandeliers that feel more India than England.
After exploring the Lanes’ maze of vintage shops, we enjoyed lunch at Fishy Fishy Seafood Brasserie (co-owned by Dermot O’Leary). A dressed crab with a glass of prosecco and elderflower, followed by a stroll along Brighton Pier, made for the perfect summer afternoon.
7. Seven Sisters Cliffs
Seeing the Seven Sisters cliffs was a bucket-list moment. These chalky white cliffs rising from the English Channel are some of the most dramatic coastal views in the country.
We perched on the grass with a picnic, soaking up the sea air and gazing at the dazzling coastline. If you only have time for one natural wonder in East Sussex, this should be it.
8. The Long Man of Wilmington
On the way back inland, we stopped to admire the Long Man of Wilmington, a mysterious chalk figure carved into the hillside. Set against bright yellow rapeseed fields, it’s an iconic piece of English heritage and a lovely picnic backdrop.
The walk up to the Long Man is easy to do if you fancy stretching your legs, and the views across the Sussex countryside make it well worth the effort.
9. Pevensey Castle
Our final stop was Pevensey Castle, one of Britain’s oldest strongholds with Roman origins dating back to the 3rd century. The castle played a key role in 1066 and today its weathered walls and sweeping grounds are a great place for a short stroll.
After exploring, we wandered down to the nearby pebbly bay. Even Poppy wasn’t brave enough to dip her paws into the chilly English Channel!
From medieval castles and historic towns to vineyards, chalk cliffs and seaside strolls, there’s no shortage of things to do in East Sussex. Whether you’re after a family holiday, a romantic getaway or just a countryside escape from the city, this corner of England has it all.
