Holiday rentals in West Sussex

Succumb to the serenity and glorious scenery of this gorgeous corner of England. A slightly more sedate version of its racier East Sussex neighbour, West Sussex features South Downs National Park, with acres of beautiful countryside, plus the traditional seaside towns of Worthing and Littlehampton and the cathedral city of Chichester. The whole area is teeming with historical gems, including Roman ruins at Bignor, the fairytale spires of Arundel Castle, and the ruined Tudor mansions at Cowdray. Art lovers can indulge in the annual Chichester Festival or the theatrical and musical delights on display at the Ropetackle Arts Centre near Shoreham-by-Sea. But if it’s restful ambling that you’re craving, you can choose between the wide green spaces of the South Downs (if you’re feeling ambitious you can walk the 100-mile route of the South Downs Way from Winchester to Eastbourne) or saunter along the seafront at Bognor Regis, with optional candy floss in hand.

The summer months see sunseekers and families gathering along the West Sussex coast and at attractions such as Arundel Castle, so if you prefer a quieter experience, aim to stay in one of the area’s holiday cottages in June or September, which offer warm weather and less bustle. The South Downs is a magical place to be throughout the year but spring and autumn see them at their best. Chichester holds a month-long arts festival in mid-June featuring music, theatre, comedy, and film. Arundel festival sees street entertainers take over the medieval town every August. The town of Worthing hosts a renowned arts trail every June and July involving more than 300 artists across 50 venues. And many of the historical homes and attractions push the boat out every Christmas, with Arundel festooned with candles, an extensive festive market at Horsham, and masses of seasonal fun at Amberley Museum.

Arundel Castle

Nestling on the edge of the South Downs and looming over the landscape like some gothic Goliath is Arundel Castle. The oldest parts of this remarkable structure date back to 1068 and there are incredible coast-to-coast views from the Keep, which has been expanded and rebuilt over the years, as well as an astounding collection of period items and wonderful gardens to explore. The town of Arundel, with its museum and cathedral, is definitely worth a visit while you’re here.

The Longest Bench

If nothing cheers you more than the sight of a bench after a long walk, then you are going to love this. The longest bench in Britain, possibly the world, is situated on the promenade at Littlehampton. It can seat more than 300 people, with each slat of reclaimed wood dedicated to a person or cause. But it’s not all bench here. Littlehampton is a splendid coastal resort to spend time in, and a bracing walk along the seafront is bound to raise your spirits.

Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens

Dive into the largest residential Roman building in the United Kingdom, featuring stunning mosaic floors and the earliest formal gardens found anywhere in the country. First occupied by the Romans as a military base around AD 43, Fishbourne Roman Palace is remarkably well preserved and you can watch the conservators at work on the site. As well as guided tours and exhibits, the palace hosts a full scale Roman re-enactment event every August.