All parents have those days when inspiration runs dry and it’s hard to think of something fun to do. So, we’ve done the hard work for you; scouring the internet to uncover some of the best and most affordable days out for families across Sussex.
Sussex is home to some brilliant family beaches including:
- West Wittering – soft sand and shallow water, great for younger kids
- Brighton Beach – classic pebble beach with a lively atmosphere
- Littlehampton – perfect mix of sandy stretches and a fun promenade
- Worthing – Soak up the sun by the lido and town centre, or head to Goring Gap where you can enjoy the green as well!
There are also lots of free to use Splashpads dotted around the coast, including:
- Splashpoint Splashpad Worthing – Free to use and right next to a park, cafe and the beach.
- Hotham Park Splashpad Bognor Regis – Free water play area with park, cafe and much more.
- Littlehampton Splashpad – Located at the West Green on South Terrace, contains a splash pad, paddling area and is close to a cafe, a park and the beach.
- Eastbourne Princes Park – Splash pad and a playground.
Sussex has several excellent lidos and outdoor pools, including:
- Saltdean Lido (Brighton, East Sussex): Perched on the coast, containing a 40-meter heated pool, a sunbathing lawn, a children’s splash pool, and an on-site cafe. Bookings can be made directly via the Saltdean Lido Website.
- The Pells Outdoor Swimming Pool (Lewes, East Sussex): This is the oldest freshwater outdoor public swimming pool in the UK. Fed by natural springs, this sun-heated pool retains a traditional feel with a tree-lined lawn and paddling pool for children. You can check opening times and book sessions here.
- Arundel Lido (Arundel, West Sussex): Set against the stunning backdrop of Arundel Castle, this facility includes a 25-meter main pool, a heated outdoor learner pool, and a splash pad for younger children. Details on swimming lessons, events, and admission can be found on Arundel Lido.
- The Triangle Leisure Centre (Burgess Hill, West Sussex): While it operates as a larger indoor leisure centre, it boasts an impressive outdoor heated pool linked to the inside via a flume, making it a great year-round or wet-weather option. More information is available here.
Sussex has lots of lovely walks and trails to offer, some shaded for those extra hot days.
- Swanbourne Lake – a lovely trail around the lake, with a cafe, ice cream kiosk and park nearby. You can also buy bird food and feed the ducks!
- South Downs National Park – endless walking trails, picnic spots, and wildlife spotting.
- Queen Elizabeth Country Park (near Petersfield) – forest walks and play areas.
- Buchan Country Park (Crawley) – lakes, woodland trails, and ducks to feed.
