Family days out in Sussex
Brilliant family days out in Sussex are easy to plan because there's so much choice! As well as the beaches, the Downs and the glorious country-side of the Sussex weald, there are zoos and activity centres, farms and nature reserves, toy museums and leisure centres - all offering a wide range of fun activities for all ages.
You could also check out our what's on for families in Sussex page; it's regularly updated with current events suitable for children. Our outdoor activities page is also worth a visit if you're planning a trip to this area.
Planning family days out in Sussex? Use this page and our 'What's on' section to help you (see button on left). If you've any questions please use our contact us form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. Travelling by car or by train to this part of Sussex couldn't be easier. Your family day out in Sussex can start within about an hour of leaving London!
What's Your Best Family Day Out in Sussex? - tell us your story here.
Visit Washbrooks Farm in the historic village of Hurstpierpoint Lunch and picnics for family days out in SussexWhen you come to Ditchling, you could also have coffee or lunch in one of the local cafes or tea shops. Alternatively, you could create a diy lunch by stopping en route at the bakers, deli or revamped Budgeons in Hassocks, and treat yourselves to delicious hot, fresh French bread, granary rolls, cheese, olives and yummy chocolate brownies made by a local mum. Ditchling Museum has a very pleasant tea room and gift shop, and there's also 'Ditchling Tea Rooms' just opposite the church, which provides full cooked lunches and afternoon teas. The Museum is very child-friendly and regularly holds special activities for children. Need ideas for creating your own delicious picnic? ... visit The Picnic Site which is full of great recipe ideas and games for family days out in Sussex.
Family Days out in Sussex a little further from DitchlingCheck individual websites for directionsDrusilla's Zoo and activity centre - about 12 miles east of Brighton About half an hour's drive from this part of Sussex (take A27 from the junction with the A/M23 just north of Brighton) is this great Zoo and children's activity centre near the delightful Sussex village of Alfriston. This was definitely one of the most popular family days out in Sussex with our kids when they were younger - a full day here was never quite enough. Even in the rain they loved it because there were so many fun activities to get involved in, including the indoor barn area with its swinging tyres. Drusilla's is a real must for every family with young children and offers a memorable family day out in the heart of Sussex. Sussex Castles Across East and West Sussex, there are many wonderful ancient castles, some little more than ruins through to others that are still lived in; so check out our Sussex castles page. Alfriston Clergy House We have had some delightful family days out here with our sons. The Clergy House dates from the Medieval period and has been superbly restored. The cottage garden is also designed and planted to be appropriate to the 14th century. A visit here, combined with a lovely walk along the River Cuckmere and lunch in a local pub, makes a really lovely outing with children. Bentley Wildfowl and Motor Museum Also about half an hour's drive east is this delightful museum and wildlife centre, offering tea rooms, a shop, formal gardens, woodland trails, a collection of wildfowl, a children's adventure playground, motor museum and a collection of antique art ... something for everyone, from little kids to Grannie and Granddad. This venue offers another lovely family day out in Sussex. Bluebell Railway Further north, the Bluebell Railway is fabulous for all kids - big and small and makes a great day or half-day out. The volunteer run Bluebell Line was the UK's first preserved standard gauge passenger railway, re-opening part of the Lewes to East Grinstead line of the old London Brighton & South Coast Railway in 1960. Since then it has developed into one of the largest tourist attractions in Sussex, yet it still remains true to its objectives of the preservation for posterity of a country branch line, its steam locomotives, coaches and goods stock, signalling systems, stations and operating practices. You can also combine your train ride with a visit to the lovely
Sheffield Park.
Family Days Out in and around BrightonWant an indoor activity? Why not try Brighton Sealife Centre? With over 150 marine species and 57 displays, this is heaven for kids! Situated on sea front at Brighton, just by the pier, this is a great family day out. If you're feeling brave, you could then tackle Brighton's famous Pier. Just near the Sealife Centre, is the world famous, Harry Ramsden's Fish and Chip Restaurant. If you're going to visit Brighton then you'll need to stay on the A/M23 or the train until you reach this lively city. Make sure that you add The Brighton Sealife Centre to your list of great ideas for family days out in Sussex.
Volks Railway, Brighton Opening Hours: October to March 10.00am-5.15pm (last tickets at 4.30pm)
Brighton Fishing Museum Located on the seafront just a few moments walk from the pier, this delightful small museum is well worth a visit; our sons and their friends loved it. Run by a team of keen volunteers 7 days a week and with free entrance, the museum traces the history of Brighton's fishing community back to the 1700s. A trip here makes a fascinating part of one of your family days out in Sussex. What is Your Family's Best Day Out in Sussex?Do you have a great story about this? Share it! BBC film series 'A Very English Village' now available on dvd If you can't visit the Sussex South Downs just yet, or come to the Downland villages in person, why not have a look at the section about the acclaimed series of films set in and around Ditchling and made by resident film-maker, Luke Holland? You can also purchase the full series or just a couple of the films from this part of the site. Go to 'What's on for families in Sussex' section
|
