A family day out in West Sussex

So, you’ve found the perfect family friendly cottage. You might wonder: how best can we spend a day in West Sussex? From coastal adventures to countryside rambles, we’ve created three best-day-ever itineraries for making the most of this beautiful area – whatever the forecast.

Offering everything from shingle shores to tufted sand dunes, the West Sussex coastline forms a natural escape. But what can you do on a day by the coast? Buckets, spades and picnic blankets hold timeless appeal, but family time can also include wetsuits and watersports.

Set up camp on the soft sands of West Wittering Beach, one of the South Coast’s most popular spots. Great for sandcastles and safe for swimming (with lifeguard cover from May to September), it’s well suited to a laid-back family morning.

Step easily into lunchtime by bringing along a picnic or taking a short stroll to The Beach Café. There you’ll find fresh, simple bites and a children’s menu with winning options like fish and chips.

With the day well underway, let loose with something a little more active. Older children could try paddleboarding or wind surfing with local guides, while younger ones can potter around the salt marshes and sand dunes at nearby East Head.

At the end of a busy day, downtime is always welcome. So, head back to your bolthole for baths, snacks and lawn games, before settling down to dinner. If it’s still sunny, make the most of the lingering light with a barbecue or relaxed supper outside.

• Go crabbing from Dell Quay, within Chichester Harbour.
• Discover more coastal gems, including East Beach and Shoreham-by-Sea. Our guide to West Sussex’s beaches is a great source of further inspiration.

Set out in search of fresh air, freedom and a peaceful pace of life. West Sussex is an ideal destination for outdoor getaways. While you’re here, find new ways to explore the countryside, whether on foot or by rail.

Capture the excitement of steaming through the Sussex countryside with a ride on the Bluebell Railway. Begin your journey at the East Grinstead station, from which you’ll pass through an 11-mile stretch of scenery. By purchasing an All Day Rover ticket, you can hop off to see the station and museum at Sheffield Park before travelling back again.

Head south to The Cat Inn, a pretty 16th-century pub in the village of West Hoathly, not far from East Grinstead. Or pop out to Old Dunnings Mill, set on the banks of the River Medway and near Ashdown Forest.

When you’re re-energised and ready to go, take a short drive to Wakehurst: Kew’s wild botanic garden. Here, the whole family can enjoy a mix of green spaces, woodlands, and natural play areas. It’s a rare chance for children to roam free while adults soak in the sweeping views and peaceful lakes.

Journey back by the countryside lanes, making a stop at Cowdray Farm Shop near Midhurst. Stock up on essentials and treats – such as meat, groceries, and artisan cheeses – for an easy-going supper when you get back home.

• Head back to the Cowdray Estate for a taste of the rural lifestyle. Children will love exploring the maize maze and flower-picking patch (open during August).
• Visit the open-air Weald & Downland Living Museum, at the heart of the South Downs National Park.

What to do in West Sussex when the weather turns wet? Even in summer, blue skies aren’t guaranteed, but there’s still plenty here to keep everyone happy. Castles, cinemas and museums are all good options for a day spent (mostly) indoors.

Start your day at Arundel Castle, where children can inspect towers, dungeons, and opulent interiors. Or, if you prefer more time under cover, visit Fishbourne Roman Palace, where you’ll find ancient mosaics, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities: just the thing for curious minds.

Dash between showers for a family lunch in Chichester. Based within the Pallant House Gallery, Pallant Café serves classic British dishes, viewed through a European lens. Or stop in at The George: an award-winning village pub just six miles from the city centre.

Engage your budding astronomers at the South Downs Planetarium and Science Centre. During summer months, the centre runs immersive family shows, with magical skyscapes playing out on the domed ceiling above.

Wind down the day with a trip to the independent Chichester Cinema at New Park, where snacks and drinks are also available. Or retreat to your property for an entirely private family film screening. Many of the boltholes in our collection feature generous sitting rooms, snugs or cinema rooms, meaning you can change into comfy clothes and put your feet up.

• Visit The Novium Museum in Chichester: home to a range of historical exhibitions and exhibits, from the Roman era to the 21st century.
• Venture further afield to Brighton’s many attractions, including the Royal Pavilion and Sea Life aquarium.

We’re here to make family holidays as smooth as possible, from finding the right property for your age grouping to lending a local eye to activity planning. If you’d like our help, just let us know.