Sussex sits just outside Brighton’s edge, offering a mix of quiet trails, sea air, and green open space. It’s the kind of place that suits last-minute plans. A stretch of coast here, a forest path there – all within an easy reach.
Whether it’s a relaxed solo afternoon or a full weekend with friends, there’s something to do without needing much prep. The coast, downs, and local spots make it easy to switch off, slow down, or stay active, depending on the mood.
These local escapes don’t need to be complicated. Just comfortable shoes, a loose plan, and a bit of daylight go a long way.
Coastal Trails with a Breeze
The stretch from Brighton to Eastbourne offers a coastline that always feels fresh. Head towards the Seven Sisters for a walking route that mixes height with clear views. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the area, but it still feels wide open, even on busy days.
Seaford Head offers a shorter loop, while Cuckmere Haven is a calm option if you’re after somewhere quieter. These spots are close enough for a day trip, and you’ll get a proper stretch of the legs with little need for gear.
Stick to the early hours or later in the afternoon for softer light and fewer people. The air carries well here, and the wind from the Channel can clear your head fast.
Forest Paths and South Downs Exploration
Away from the sea, the South Downs brings a different kind of escape. The hills roll on without crowding, and the footpaths wind through beechwoods, valleys, and open ridges.
Stanmer Park is right on Brighton’s doorstep and ideal for a walk with varied scenery. A little further out, Devil’s Dyke gives you wider views and a mix of terrain that suits anything from a quick loop to a full-day hike.
Spring brings wild garlic and birdsong. Autumn adds its own colour, especially through the woodland tracks. There’s space to roam but enough signs and routes to keep things simple.
Keep water on hand, especially on uphill stretches, and watch for muddy paths after rain. This is the kind of walking that feels manageable and grounding, with just enough effort without overdoing it.
Golf, Green Spaces, and Active Escapes
Not everyone heads out to walk. Sussex is full of spaces for other ways to move – from long bike rides through quiet lanes to paddleboarding on flat inland waters. Then there’s golf, which holds its place as a go-to weekend choice for many across the region.
Clubs like Hollingbury Park or Dyke Golf Club are within easy reach of Brighton, offering both 9- and 18-hole rounds across rolling countryside. Some are built on elevated ground, giving views that stretch across the downs to the sea.
Many golfers use electric golf trolleys to help reduce strain during longer rounds, especially on more hilly courses. Those looking to ease the physical side of the game should explore the electric golf trolley range at Clarkes Golf, which includes options suited for different terrains and play styles. It’s a simple way to keep the focus on the round, especially for players managing fatigue or playing multiple times a week. The store also stocks motorised golf trolley options and compact designs for quick set-up and travel.
Whatever you’re into, there’s space for movement that doesn’t feel like hard work. Open fields, sports spaces, and clean paths make it easy to keep active without too much planning.
Local Markets and Artisan Finds
Sussex does well at staying creative without shouting about it. Across towns like Lewes, Arundel, and Shoreham, you’ll find weekend markets that feature handmade goods, antiques, fresh produce, and art by local makers.
Lewes has a strong mix of food stalls, vintage finds, and crafted homeware. It’s a good stop for a relaxed morning and a decent coffee. Shoreham’s Farmers Market, held on the second Saturday of each month, brings together food producers across the county. You will find cheeses, breads, chutneys, and seasonal veg, all packed into a friendly setup.
Many of these places sit near walking trails or old high streets, so it’s easy to weave in a short walk or stop at a local café. The atmosphere tends to be laid-back, with a focus on independent traders rather than big-brand stalls. These markets offer a way to see Sussex through local detail, and the small pieces reflect the area’s slow, practical pace.
Easy Getaways: Where to Stay and Unwind
Turning a day trip into an overnight stay is easy in Sussex. You’ll find a wide mix of places to stay, including converted barns, small guesthouses, and traditional pubs with quiet rooms upstairs.
Villages such as Alfriston, Amberley, and South Harting are popular for overnight breaks. They offer calm surroundings and often sit close to popular walking routes. Many local inns and B&Bs serve food or are just a short walk from somewhere that does.
Accommodation fills up quickly during peak weekends and school breaks, so booking in advance helps. That said, you can sometimes find quieter spots by choosing lesser-known villages or travelling midweek. Staying over changes the feel of the trip. It gives you more time to explore, rest, and enjoy the area without needing to watch the clock.
Plan a Sussex Break That Fits Your Pace
You don’t need a strict plan to enjoy Sussex. Whether you’re looking for movement, stillness, or something in between, the area gives you space to choose what feels right on the day.
Its combination of coast, woodland, and open green space makes it easy to build a weekend around your mood. There’s no pressure to fit everything in at once, and often, the best moments come from keeping plans flexible.
Sussex sits close enough to Brighton for a last-minute visit, while still feeling far enough away to offer a proper change of scene. Pick a few places that interest you, keep the rest open, and let the day take shape as it goes. It’s the kind of trip you can do again and again without ever feeling the same twice.
