25 of the Best Days Out in West Sussex

I have lived in West Sussex since I was three years old. Unless you count the brief trip to Cambridge when I was at university. Now I am raising my own family here. Although we do love to travel around the UK hunting out new places and exploring old ones. We still get up to a fair few adventures in our own county there are so many things to do with kids in West Sussex. This post pulls together some of the best days out in West Sussex. Most of them are family days out in West Sussex and hopefully, it will give you some ideas about places to visit and attractions in West Sussex. If you are visiting Sussex as a county and staying for a family holiday then you may also be interested in 25 of the Best Days out in East Sussex.

25 of the Best Days Out in West Sussex

Arundel Castle

There is something very special about Arundel Castle and the town over which it resides. Visible from the surrounding roads the medieval castle looks very majestic. Exactly how I would have drawn a castle when I was a little girl with lots of turrets and ramparts. Not that I would have known what they were called then. We have visited it a few times over the years it is such a great place for the whole family. It is possible to still go into the castle; it is a hotel and they even have rooms you can stay in.

The castle itself is really interesting to look around and I still swear to this day that I saw the ghost of a black labrador in the library. Not only that but the walled gardens are stunning. Overlooking Arundel church the best time to visit is when the Agapanthus are out. In July each year, they also hold a very popular jousting event. Something which is on the list for the future and quite often a sell-out.

More details 

• Top Tip – Although parking in Arundel is general can be difficult if you arrive early there is a car park almost opposite the castle which is a reasonable size. Take some time to explore the main town area before leaving. There is a delicious baker on the corner and a fudge shop further up. 
• What is there for kids – They run various event days throughout the year. These are normally included in the ticket price. Although some activities are for over 8s and over 12s only. 
• Arundel Castle address and postcode – Arundel Castle, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9AB
• Ticket prices – Prices vary depending on which part of the castle you visit. A family ticket for the gardens, castle and bedrooms costs £60. Adults £25 and children £10. Garden-only tickets are cheaper and if you use gift aid on your purchase you can get a voucher to spend in the shop or cafe. Tickets can be brought online or on the day at the entrance. 
• Opening times – Castle & Gardens are open from 1 April – 30 October 2022, closed Mondays apart from bank holidays and throughout August. Opening times: gardens 10.00am – 5.00pm, keep 10.00am – 4.30pm and castle rooms 12.00pm – 5.00pm. 
• https://www.arundelcastle.org/

Arundel Wetland Centre

You may want to try and combine a visit to the castle with a trip to the Wetland Centre which is easily within walking distance. Located on the side of the river Arun there is plenty to see and do at the Wetland Centre. From spotting local wildlife, and feeding the birdlife, to trying your hand at pond dipping, taking in the fresh air or learning all about the important conservation work they do. Do not miss the boat trip we spotted a Kingfisher when we visited. It runs throughout the day. There is also a small play area and large cafe selling jacket potatoes and a wide range of cakes. 

More details

• Top Tip – There is parking on site but it can get very busy so head there early if you want to avoid the crowds. Keep an eye on their website as there are often special events running through the summer months. It is also worth spending some time looking around the ancient town of Arundel. With its rich history, a high street full of old buildings and cobbled streets.
• What is there for kids – At the weekend during school holidays they often do pond dipping sessions. Where you can look at your finds under a microscope. There are staff on hand to help you identify what you have found. 
• Arundel Wetland Centre address and postcode – WWT Arundel, Mill Road, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9PB
• Ticket prices – If you are a member of WWT then you can enter for free, if not then a family ticket for two adults and two children costs £37.85 with gift aid or £34.40 without, adults £14.45/£13.13 and children £7.80/£7.09 children 4 and under are free. Tickets can be booked online in advance. 
• Opening times – Open 364 days a year 10 am to 4.30 pm. On Christmas Eve they are open 10 am to 2 pm. 
• https://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/arundel/

READ MORE – Arundel Wetland Centre

Weald & Downland Living Museum

Made famous by the TV series Repair Shop the heritage centre has long been a popular location for school visits. The museum focuses very much on English social history and farming. Spread over 40 acres it has over 50 historic buildings to explore. Along with traditional gardens, farm animals, craft demonstrations and walking trails. There is so much to do that there is something for everyone and is a popular tourist attractions for history lovers.

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• Top Tip – A great museum to support homeschooling or extracurricular learning. Keep an eye on their website for events coming up and which time periods they are focusing on. With such a big site plan your visit before you go by downloading the map from their website. As you will struggle to fit it all into one day.
• What is there for kids – Over the summer months they run something called Wonderweeks which focuses on even more hands-on historical activities to keep the children entertained. 
• Weald & Downland Living Museum address and postcode – Weald & Downland Living Museum,
• Town Lane, Singleton, West Sussex PO18 0EU
• Ticket prices – Tickets need to be pre-booked on the website, family tickets of two adults and up to three children cost £46.50 with gift aid or £42.00 without. Reduced family tickets are available for grandparents and grandchildren and one adult family. Adult tickets cost £17.50/£15.50 and children £8.50/£7.50. Children aged four and under are free. 
• Opening times – 10.30 am to 6.00 pm during British Summertime, 10.30 am to 4.00 pm at other times. Open daily from the 3rd of January to the 23rd of December, as well as the 26th and 27th of December. 
• https://www.wealddown.co.uk/

Fishers Farm Park

A favourite of the boys when they were growing up as there are so many fun things to do. Probably most suitable for children under the age of ten. Fishers Farm park is a real gem of an activity farm and surprisingly not very well known. Inside a huge soft play which is open all year found. While outside you will find all sorts of different outdoor activities to keep the kids entrained. From bouncing pillows, play areas, ride on and tractor rides. There are plenty of farm animals and pony rides at certain times of the day. They also have a giant splash pad which is open in the warmer months and an inside theatre which puts on lots of different shows throughout the year. There are various places to get refreshments and food onsite but they also offer undercover picnic tables if you bring your own. 

More details

• Top Tip – Make sure you take a picture of the activity board on the way in. So you know about all the exciting things that are going on throughout the day. Just be aware that you have to exit through the gift shop. But thankfully there are a few pocket money toys.
• What is there for kids – The whole adventure farm is set up for kids and with plenty of hot coffee and tea on hand, you will be able to hopefully sit back and enjoy their happiness.
• Fishers Farm Park address and postcode – Fishers Farm Park, Newpound Lane, Wisborough Green, West Sussex, RH14 0EG
• Ticket prices – Tickets need to be booked online in advance. under 2s are free, 2-year-old and seniors (60+) are £17.95, and everyone else is £19.95. Annual membership is avaliable.
• Opening times – Open 363 days a year 10 am to 5 pm. 
• https://fishersfarmpark.co.uk/

READ MORE – Fishers Farm Park 

Harbour Park in Littlehampton

Somewhere we still frequent a lot. Littlehampton beach is one of your quintessential British seaside resorts. With Harbour Park being the icing on the cake. An old-fashioned amusement arcade with its own traditional seaside rides next door. Full of flashing lights and the feeling of being at the fairground it is a popular attraction. Close by there is the beach and probably the best place we have been crabbing in West Sussex, along with a boating lake that is open in the Summer. If the kids are hungry then you will be pleased to know there is plenty of places for ice cream and fish and chips. It really does make the perfect day out.

• Top Tip – Make a day of it and bring your beach toys and swimsuit. When the tide is out the beach stretches for miles.
• What is there for kids – So much! it is completely set up for children so come prepared to part with some money for rides and arcades. As well as crazy golf. 
• Harbour Park address and postcode – Harbour Park, Windmill Rd, Littlehampton BN17 5LH
• Ticket prices – You can buy unlimited wristbands online from their website these cost £17 instead of the on-the-door price of £23. They must be brought at least 24 hours in advance. There is also a book of ten rides which cost £19.00.  
• Opening times – Ride times vary depending on the season during peak times they are open from 11 am to 6 pm. Check their website for more information. They are closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The beach is available 365 days of the year as is access to the crabbing spots.  
• https://www.harbourpark.com/

READ MORE – Littlehampton Harbour Park & Crabbing in West Sussex

 

West Wittering Beach

Our favourite sandy beach on the south coast of England that goes for miles. Since lockdown, you do need to now book the car park which can be done via the just park app. Th car park is big and there is a field next door which they use when it is busy. Which is just as well as it is busy a lot of the time. With sand dunes, beach huts and long stretches of golden sand it is a gem of a beach. The tide goes out for miles which also makes it a great beach for the boys to try out their bodyboards. 

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• Top Tip – Pack a picnic. There is a cafe in the car park but it gets really busy and because of the long stretches of sand, it could be quite a way for the kids to walk. 
• What is there for kids – It’s a beach! Bring the body boards to this one and you will not regret it. We have found it to be one of the best places to body board on the Sussex coast.
• West Wittering beach address and postcode – West Wittering Beach Parking,  Beach Car Park, West Wittering, Chichester PO20 8AJ
• Parking prices – £8.60 regardless of the amount of time selected during the week and £9.60 for the weekends and bank holidays.
• Opening times – 7 am to 7 pm for parking. Beach is accessible outside of these hours. 
• Website – Just Park West Wittering

READ MORE – 25 Best Beaches in the UK for Families

Tilgate Park

Tillage Park is a great free day out (less the car park which is approx £5). You can easily spend most of the day there. With a large play area for the kids that also has suitable play equipment for little ones. The boys especially like the climbing frame and the large tube slide. as well as the bar there is a large lake which had a circular path. Great for scooting around, spotting wildlife and walking underneath the trees. Plus there is a trim trail for the more energetic.

To one end of the park, there is a small Nature Centre which you do have to pay for. Here you can see various farm animals and bird life and the entrance fees are very reasonable. We particularly like the bridge that goes out over the lake at the bottom. There is a walled garden, with a maze and a cafe next door to the zoo. Sometimes they hold events and have small fairground rides. You can find out more details about these on the council website. 

More details

• Top Tip – Arrive early as it is popular in the Summer and once the large car park is full then your only option is to park in the housing estate which is quite a walk.
• What is there for kids – As well as the above there is a Go Ape which offers both a paid-for child course Treetop Adventure for £20 and an adult Treetop Challenge course for £33. There are also forest segways for £35 an hour. Tilgate watersports also operate from the lake and offer different types of activity hire such as pedalos, paddle boards and rowing boats. 
• Tilgate Park address and postcode – Tilgate Park, Tilgate Drive, Crawley, West Sussex RH10 5PQ
• Parking prices – 4 hours for £4.80 or £6 for 24 hours. Payment via cash or contactless payment.
• Opening times – The Nature Centre and Walled Garden are open from 10 am-6 pm in the summer (April to October) and 10 am-4 pm in the winter (November to March). The play area and lake are open outside these hours. 
• https://crawley.gov.uk/culture/parks-and-open-spaces/gardens-and-parks/tilgate-park

Nymans Gardens National Trust

This is our most local National Trust and so consequently we visit often. There are large gardens to explore and on some days it is possible to go inside the house. It is worth a look at Christmas time when it is dressed for a 1920s family Christmas. Next to the house, there is a Dove Cote which the boys love peering inside.

There is a large expanse of grass in front of the house with plenty of shade it makes a great picnic area. As well as various nooks and crannies to explore and interesting things to find such as the hidden chameleon which we only found by accident. With long herbaceous borders, a rose garden and plenty of specimen trees it is popular with garden lovers. But there is also an ancient woodland where you can walk for miles. This can be reached from the car park so if you are not a member of the National Trust you can access it without payment.

More details 

• Top Tip – You can pick up binoculars and magnifying glasses from the entrance for children to do some bug hunting. Although they are popular and tend to go quickly.
• What is there for kids – They have recently added a new children’s natural play area called the Play Glade. Which is behind the second-hand bookshop. There is quite often a trial of some sort during the school holidays and half term and the ice cream is particularly good.
• Nymans Gardens National Trust address and postcode – Nymans Gardens, Handcross, near Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH17 6EB
• Ticket prices – A family ticket is £41.30 with gift aid or £37.50 without, adults £16.50/£15, children £8.30/£7.50 with under-fives being free. There is no longer a need to book tickets online before visiting. 
• Opening times – Do vary depending on the season, the car park opens from 9 am until 6 pm with the cafe and house if it is open running from 10 am to 5 pm. You can find up-to-date opening information on the National Trust website. 
• https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nymans

READ MORE – Nymans National Trust

 

Wakehurst – Kew Gardens

Sister to the Royal Botanic Gardens of Kew, Wakehurst also offers National Trust members free entry, although you still have to pay for the car park. The grounds are vast and quite hilly but there are things dotted around to keep the kids interested including mazes and hammocks! There is a lake with ducks and also the millennium seed bank which has lots of educational exhibits and the chance to see some of the seeds up close. The silver birch wood is stunning in the spring with a carpet of purple bluebells.

More details

• Top Tip – They run various events throughout the year and all are popular requiring tickets to be booked in advance. Especially their lantern walk and when the bluebells are in full bloom. So get in early!
• What is there for kids – There is a natural play trail near the bluebell woods which the boys always enjoy. Plus you can book activity bags in advance. There are two age groups both with varying activities. Charlie was a bit old for the age 8 one. But Harry really enjoyed his at 5.
• Wakehurst Kew Gardens address and postcode – Wakehurst Kew Gardens, Ardingly, Haywards Heath, Sussex, RH17 6TN
• Ticket prices – Adults cost £14.95, young people aged 17-25 £7.50 with children aged 16 and under free with a paying adult. Entry fees are reduced by 50% for entries after 3.30 pm. Entry is free if you are a National Trust member. Although you still need to pay £10 for parking. 
• Opening times – Open for 363 days a year, except for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Gardens are open from 10 am to 6 pm with the last entry at 5.30 pm. The seed bank is open from 10 am to 5 pm.
• https://www.kew.org/wakehurst

READ MORE – Wakehurst – Kew’s Sussex Garden 

RSPB Pulborough Brooks Nature Reserve

Located in the South Downs National Park, it is a landscape of grasslands, pools and wildflower meadows. The national nature reserve is part of the Arun Valley floodplain and are managed with conservation in mind. Much of which you can see when you visit including butterflies, dragonflies and bird life. There has recently been a new play area added as well as plenty of places for a picnic. There is also a cafe and visitor centre onsite. 

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• Top Tip – If you have preschoolers then there is a special fortnightly group called Little wild Things based around forest schooling.
• What is there for kids – There is a large range of family activities that take part during the school holidays. Including the Wild Families events. Not to mention bug hunting kits, pond dipping, den building and snake hunting.
• RSPB Pulborough Brooks address and postcode – RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, Pulborough RH20 2EL
• Ticket prices – Free for RSPB members, adults are £4 and children are £2 although the first child is free and it is free entry for the under 5s. The car park costs £3 for non-members. Payment for the car park can be made by cash or using the PaybyPhone app. 
• Opening times – Cafe and outdoor hub are open daily between 10 am and 4 pm. 
• https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/pulborough-brooks/

Amberly Museum

I remember going on a school trip to the quaint Amberley Museum while I was a junior school. The working museum makes a great day out and is very close to Amberley Castle. The working museum has over 40 different interactive exhibits and there are a number of free demonstrations and a wonderful narrow gauge railway. There is so much to see you will struggle to fit it into one day, although the craft village is a must with the opportunity in the pottery for kids to get stuck in themselves. 

More details

• Top Tip – Arrive early you will need the whole day. There is a cafe if you do not get around to making a picnic and keep an eye out for special events that they run during the holidays.
• What is there for kids – The whole museum is set up for children next with plenty of things to do outside it makes a great day trip option for the holidays
• Amberly Museum address and postcode – Amberley Museum, New Barn Road, Amberley, Near Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9LT
• Ticket prices – Tickets can be booked online in advance and it is recommended for weekends, holidays and when they are running special events. This is to ensure there is a car park space. If you are travelling by train you do not need to pre-book. A family of two adults and up to three children costs £43.00 or £39.00 with gift aid. Adults £16/14.50 and children aged 5-16 £7.70/£7. Under 5s are free.  
• Opening times – They are open Wednesday to Sunday 10 am to 4.30 pm during the main season which runs from 1st Febuary to th 31st of October. Outside these dates, the museum is open on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm. 
• https://www.amberleymuseum.co.uk/

Wey and Arun Canal

This is a lovely old traditional day out, we have taken several boat trips along the Wey and Arun Canal which was restored in 2016. They run special boat trips and events for holidays such as Christmas and Easter. But not only that you can bring your own canoes, paddle boards and row boats to enjoy the canal at your own place. Plus there are lots of walking routes to take in the beautiful countryside for nature lovers. You can download walking routes from their website. 

More details

• Top Tip – The special event boat trips are popular and sell out fast. So make sure you keep an eye on their website for details as they have a loyal following and do not tend to advertise locally.
• What is there for kids – The canal boat trips are very child friendly and who doesn’t love a nature walk?
• Wey and Arun Canal address and postcode – Wey and Arun Canal, High St, Loxwood, Billingshurst RH14 0RD
• Ticket prices – You can book scheduled boat trips online via their website. For a short trip for 40 minutes, prices start at £9 for an adult and £4.50 for a child. The longer 1.5-hour trips cost £12 for an adult and £6 for a child. 
• Opening times – Boat rides vary throughout the year. Normally they only operate at weekends, although do sometimes do special events through the school holidays. The canal paths are open all year round. 
• https://weyarun.org.uk/

South Downs Light Railway 

This reminds me. so much of when Charlie was little. Unfortunately due to covid it is not something that Harry as ever experienced. Writing this blog post has reminded me that we should visit again soon. It is a lovely minute railway run by volunteers that operates out of the garden centre in Pulborough. The trains will run from March to September and normally operate on the first Sunday of the month. 

More details

• Top Tip – Keep an eye on their website as they often run special events throughout the school holidays. These are extremely popular. If you think you will visit often then it is most definitely worth buying the saver ticket. We would usually go on a couple of times in one visit. 
• What is there for kids – The steam train rides are so much fun, and with special events for children, it makes a great half-day activity with lunch in the garden centre afterwards. The cafe sells children’s lunchboxes at very reasonable prices. 
• South Downs Light Railway address and postcode – 
• Ticket prices -Adults are classed at 15+, £2 each ride or 4 rides for £6 if brought with a saver ticket. Children are £1.50 or 4 rides for £1.50, under 2s are free. South Downs Belle costs £3 for an adult and £2 for children. You do not need to book in advance unless it is their Christmas special. 
• Opening times – Trains run every 15 minutes between 11 am and 12.30 pm and 1.30 pm and 3.30 pm on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays and also on Wednesdays in the Summer school holidays.
• South Downs Belle runs at 12 pm and 3 pm on the first Sunday of each month.
• https://www.south-downs-railway.com/index.php

Loxwood Joust 

This is the one excursion included here which is seasonal and is normally only on during the first two weekends in August. We have visited several times over the years and always have a great day out. Located in a field near the village of Loxwood, the joust takes part in a large field surrounded by traditional knightly stalls. Showing how people use to live and giving demonstrations. As well as activities for the children. There is also a gunfight and woodland area with a stage for various shows throughout the day. It is a great day out. Being in August do not forget the sunscreen as there is not a lot of cover.

• Top Tip – At the entrance, there will be a sign that shows you the running order of the shows and things to see. Take a photo of it as we only saw it at the entrance which is quite a walk from the entrance to the main field. Take cash with you as not all vendors take card. 
• What is there for kids – There are circus activities as well as archery, pony riding and various other things. Some are free and some do cost extra. Plus of course, there is the main joust with a great storyteller.
• Loxwood Joust address and postcode – Loxwood, Billingshurst, West Sussex RH14 0AL
• Ticket prices – Tickets are available at the gate, or you can book online in advance, entrance costs £20 for adults and £10 for children with free parking. New for this year you can also add experiences online such as banquets, knight school and other workshops. 
• Opening times – Operating over the middle two weekends in August 2022 dates are the 6th & 7th and the 13th & 14th 
• https://loxwoodjoust.co.uk/the-kingdom-of-loxwood/

READ MORE – The Loxwood Joust 

Out of Bounds

A leisure centre is not really my idea of a great day out but the kids love it. So much that we had a party there for Charlie this year. There are various different activities for the kids to get up to. Including indoor climbing walls, ten-pin bowling, soft play, laser tag and outside adventure golf, foot golf, jumping pillows and adventure nets. It is also very close to Roundstone PYO farm (see below) if you would like a more sedate second half to your day.

More details

• Top Tip – They no longer accept cash so make sure you take cards with you.
• What is there for kids – So much for them to do th trouble will be choosing which activity to do first.
• Out of Bounds address and postcode – 
• Ticket prices – Each activity has its own price, but it is possible to buy a card which allows four for £30 although you can not choose which four. But you can pick your preferred time for each. More details of the pricing for the individual activities are included on their website.
• Opening times – Most activities run daily between 10 am and 5 pm.
• https://out-of-bounds.co.uk/

Little Streets 

We use to visit Little Streets when they first set up their original role play venue in Rudgwick in West Sussex. Since then they have gone on to expand all over the South East which is lovely to see. The play cafes offer parents the chance to relax while their little ones emerge themself in role play. They have everything from being a doctor to a hairdresser to a policeman, postman or construction worker. They have a shop and play cafe. There is so much for them to immersive themselves in. Sessions are timed. There is also Little Streets Chichester which operates on th same basis. 

More details

• Top Tip – Capacity is limited so I would recommend booking in advance online to get the session and location that you want.
• What is there for kids – Everything! Free reign playtime and it also saves you having to fill your house up with lots of the bigger role play toys. 
• Little Streets Rudgwick address and postcode – King George V Building (Rudgwick Hall), Guildford Road, Rudgwick, RH12 3JJ
• Ticket prices – Sessions cost £5.95 per person and include a free hot drink for the adults. They also offer play passes which will give you a set amount of sessions for a reduced price. The more you buy the cheaper it is overall. You can book your session online.
• Opening times –  There are four seasons a day, each lasting 1 hour and twenty-five minutes. They operate seven days a week with the first session starting at 9.10 am and the last session ending at 5.10 pm. 
• https://www.little-street.co.uk/

READ MORE – Little Streets Role Play Venue in Surrey

Petworth House National Trust

A beautiful house which has the most amazing painted ceilings and art collection. You really would not expect it from a National Trust property, but rather an art museum or art gallery in Europe. The collection also houses masters such as Turner, Van Dyke and Gainsborough. There are acres of gardens to wander around. A cafe and also a large deer park, designed by Capability Brown, which the boys especially like running free in. In fact, it was a bit of a savour when we were allowed out during lockdown. 

More details

• Top Tip – If your kids are not worried about looking around the stately home then head out to the deer park. There is plenty of space to roam, trees to climb and nature to spot. If this is your preference then I would suggest parking closer to this area (North car park) rather than the main car park, as there is less walking involved. 
• What is there for kids – Although there is no play area Petworth House usually puts on activities for children during the school holidays. Such as garden games, activity trails and outdoor cinema.
• Petworth House address and postcode – Petworth House and Park, Petworth, West Sussex, GU28 9LR
• Ticket prices – Entrance is free for National Trust members, £44.00 for a family with gift aid or £40.00 without. Adults £17.60/£16.00, Children £8.80/£8.
• Opening times – Open 363 days a year, the car park and gardens are open 10 am to 5 pm. The house and kitchens are volunteer dependant and so it is worth checking their website below for more information. Access to the house is via a guided tour only you will need to book your time slot when you arrive. 
• https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/petworth-house-and-park

READ MORE – Petworth National Trust

 

Wings Museum 

This museum was born out of passion and that is still very much the case today. Hidden away in Balcombe many of the locals have not even heard of the second world war aviation museum. Displaying memorabilia and stories of those that lived through and fought in the war. It is a fascinating insight into what life was like. It is run entirely by volunteers who are more than happy to any answer any questions you may have. Charlie in particular was really interested and especially enjoyed being able to sit in a cock pit of a fighter. 

More details

• Top Tip – The museum is not very big so is perfect for a half-day activity. Being close to Balcombe you may want to combine it with a trip to see the viaduct.
• What is there for kids – Although small there is so much to see, with the focus very much on personal stories it is a great opportunity for them to learn about the history of the war. 
• Wings Museum address and postcode – Wings Museum, Unit 1, Bucklands Farm, Brantridge Lane, Near Balcombe, West Sussex, RH17 6JT.
• Ticket prices – A family ticket for two adults and three children costs £28, adults £10 and children £5 with under five being free.
• Opening times – Tuesday to Sunday 10 am to 5 pm. 
• https://www.wingsmuseum.co.uk/

Washbrooks Family Farm

A staple when Charlie was growing up. Washbrooks Family Farm has everything you need, indoor play areas, outdoor play areas, pedal tractors to ride on and plenty of opportunities to get up close to farm animals. Although you can not touch or feed them at this farm. That doesn’t detract from what the farm has to offer. They also have an onsite tea room which sells well-priced kids’ meals and we never had trouble finding a table. It is also very well priced in comparison with other farms.

More details

• • Top Tip – The jumping pillows are a popular attraction, head there first to get them to yourself! The indoor play area is targeted at children aged under 8 years old. They also have a specific indoor area for under-fives. 
• What is there for kids – The whole farm is set up with kids in mind.
• Washbrook Family Farm address and postcode – Washbrooks Family Farm, Brighton Road, Hurstpierpoint, West Sussex, BN6 9EF
• Ticket prices – Adults cost £9, children up to 35 months are free, a group ticket for four costs £30. 
• Opening times – They are open every day from 9.30 am to 5 pm, except for Christmas Eve when they close at 2 pm. They are closed from Christmas Day until the 2nd of January. The tea room closes at 4 pm.
• https://washbrooks.co.uk/

Roundstone Pick Your Own Farm

The first ever PYO that I took Charlie to and he has loved it ever since. With easy on-site parking, a wide range of fruit and vegetables to choose from and the ability to take card payments. Roundstone Pick Your Own is the biggest pick-your-own farm in Sussex. 

More details

• Top Tip – To find out what is available for picking before you arrive check out their website to avoid disappointment. I have lost count of the number of times I have promised strawberries and ended up with something else to compensate.
• What is there for kids – Kids love picking fruit and veg and it is a great way for them to learn about where food comes from. Of course, with the fruit, I have to watch the boys making sure nothing is eaten before it is weighed! There is also a free tractor that takes you around the fields. 
• Roundstone PYO address and postcode – Roundston PYO, Littlehampton Rd, Angmering, Worthing, BN12 6PW
• Ticket prices – Prices are dependent on what you pick, no minimum spend or booking fee.
• Opening times – Monday to Sunday 9 am to 5 pm with the last entry at 4.30 pm. Although be aware that they do not operate in the rain. You do not need to book in advance. 
• https://www.roundstonefarm.co.uk/

Bluebell Railway 

A beautiful traditional steam railway in the heart of West Sussex. One of the best-preserved heritage lines in the country. Running steam trains between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead, stopping at Horsted Keynes and Kingscote. You can purchase an all-day ticket which allows you to get on and off as much as you like. The four stations have been preserved in different time periods with railway staff dressed in Victorian, 1930s and 1950s. There are play areas and picnic spots as well as interactive elements for the children to learn all about the history of the railways. During the school holidays, they run special events and at key times throughout the year such as Christmas etc.

More details

• Top Tip – Their events sell out incredibly fast so I would suggest signing up for their mailing list to at least stand a chance of getting a ticket.
• What is there for kids – Lots to see and do at the stations, play areas and of course riding on a steam train. The complete ride, if you stay on and do not get off is around 40 minutes each way. So should hold their interest. 
• Bluebell Railway address and postcode – the postcode for Sheffield Park Station is TN22 3QL which is one end of the line. And the postcode for East Grinstead is RH19 1EB which is the other. Both have car parks nearby. 
• Ticket prices – Tickets cost less if they are brought in advance. A family rover ticket costs £59, adults £23.50 and children £11.75, under 3s are free. Tickets can be booked online. It is also possible to just buy tickets to access the platforms only. Prices vary depending on the platform and start at £2 for an adult and £1 for a child. More detail on their website. 
• Opening times – Time tables vary depending on the time of year and the events being run. Full details of the timetables can be found on their website. 
• https://www.bluebell-railway.com/

READ MORE – Bluebell Railway at Christmas

 

Fontwell Race Course

Many racecourses run special events for families and children throughout the year. Especially during the Summer period. As well as the horse racing a number of activities are put on for the children. Including fairground rides and activities to help ensure everyone had a great day.

More details

• Top Tip – Keep an eye on the individual race courses to find out dates, times, and activities. Head to the kid’s funfair and activities first as they can get busy later in the day.
• What is there for kids – fairground rides, entertainment and activities which are dependent on the theme Plenty of options for food and ice cream.  
• Fontwell Race Course address and postcode – Fontwell Park Racecourse, Arundel Road, Fontwell, Arundel, BN18 0SY
• Ticket prices – Kids generally go free to family fun days, adult tickets are dependent on the stand chosen but for Fontwell start at £17 and go up to £32 for the full package including a hot meal in the cafe, £79 with dinner in the restaurant and £109 for a box. Tickets must be brought in advance.
• Opening times – Race days vary throughout the year. Check the website for details of events. 
• https://www.fontwellpark.co.uk/

READ MORE – Fontwell Family Race Day

 

 

Downslink & South Downs Way

The Downslink is a 37-mile (59km) shared-use route linking the North Downs Way in Surrey with Shoreham-by-Sea in West Sussex. It offers some of the best walks in the county. Following the disused railway lines, it also connects to the South Downs Way which takes you across the beautiful south downs. It is a great free day out although parking charges may apply depending on where you join the route. 

More details

• Top Tip – Most of the downlink we have walked along has hard standing so it makes a great location to scoot or cycle. 
• What is there for kids – Lots of fresh air, nature trails and the opportunity to try geocaching along the route. As it has been a popular spot for cachers with several groups operating and hiding treasures. 
• Downslink & South Downs Way location – The Downlink path can be accessed at various towns in West Sussex these include – Rudgwick, Slinfold, Christ’s Hospital, Southwater, Copsale, West Grinstead, Henfield, Steyning, Bramber and Shoreham-by-Sea.
• Downslink & South Downs Way

Saddlescombe Farm & Newtimber Hill 

One for the springtime although the surrounding National Trust area is accessible all year round. Saddlescombe Farm is a working farm, which is why it is shut outside of the lambing season. However, it is pretty special which is why it has made this list. It is not often you get the chance to walk around a working farm. The surrounding area including Devils Dyke is an area of outstanding beauty and worth exploring. On days when the farm is shut to the public it takes a great free day out. The elevated position of Newtimber Hill means that you can see for miles.

More details

• Top Tip – if you are planning a hike then this area also runs into the South Downs Way and The Downslink path mentioned above. So you could easily make a whole day of it. If you do visit during lambing season do not forget your wellies – after all this is a working farm. Keep an eye on the website as they also tend to do special open days and events during the school holidays although these vary from year to year. 
• What is there for kids – Kids love a farm. Other than that there is a pub at the top of Devils Dyke which makes a good pit stop while exploring the countryside. In the summertime, if you are lucky you will also catch poppies. 
• Saddlescombe Farm and Newtimber Hill address and postcode – Saddlescombe Road, near Brighton, West Sussex, BN45 7DE
• Ticket prices – Free for Newtimber Hill and the surrounding area, there is a charge for Saddlescombe Farm during the lambing season
• Opening times – Newtimber Hill is open all year around. Keep an eye on the website for details of when Saddlescombe Farm is open for the lambing season.
• https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/saddlescombe-farm-and-newtimber-hill

Jumpin Inflatable Park

If you are looking for something to do inside on a wet day that will wear the kids out then this is it! The inflatable inside adventure park in Burgess Hill is extremely popular even in good weather. Regularly changing the course there are zip lines, climbing walls, ball pits, assault courses and generally just a lot of fun for old and young. There is even a small soft play upstairs for the little ones and a place to grab a coffee while the children play. 

More details

• Top Tip – Arrive at your session early if you would like a locker as they go quickly. I would also recommend booking online in advance as sessions are very popular. Although during term time they also have a preschooler session in the early afternoon which is not only cheaper but quieter for little ones. The same goes for parking as the car park is not big enough for all visitors. With many people choosing to park on the surrounding roads it can get a little chaotic. 
• What is there for kids – It has all been sent up for kids and they love it. After your session, you can even cool down with an ice cream
• Jumpin Inflatable Park Burgess Hill address and postcode – Jumpin Inflatable Park, 5-7 Jubilee Road, Burgess Hill, West Sussex, RH15 9TL
• Ticket prices – Tickets cost £5 for children and adults, you can book online directly in advance
• Opening times – Sessions run from 9 am to 4 pm and last an hour
• https://jumpinfun.co.uk/burgess-hill/

READ MORE – Jumpin Burgess Hill

Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens 

We have visited Leonardslee Gardens for years even before it was closed to the public in 2009. In 2019 it opened again under new management and has gone from strength to strength. There is a resident wallaby population, peacocks, gardens, sculptures and at certain times you can watch little boats on the lakes. Also home to tea room selling afternoon teas. A Michelin stared restaurant with a delicious tasting menu. The gardens run events throughout the year including light trails, summer experiences and trails for children during the school holidays. A great family day out.

More details

• Top Tip – if you buy tickets online but can not make the date originally booked the tickets are valid for 30 days. 
• What is there for kids – They have recently added a dolls house museum which is a new attraction and stunning. 
• Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens address and postcode – Leonardslee Gardens, Brighton Road, Lower Beeding, Horsham, RH13 6PP
• Ticket prices – £14.50 for adults, £6.50 for children a family ticket for one adult is £26 and for two £37.50. Under 5s are free. 
• Opening times – Open 364 days a year, only closed on Christmas Day. The gardens operate at peak time from 27th March to the 30th of October where they are open 9 am to 5 pm with the last entry at 3.30 pm. The rest of the year they are open from 9 am to 4 pm with the last entry at 2.30 pm. 
• https://www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk/

Fishbourne Roman Palace 

I still remember going to Fishbourne Roman Palace when I was a child studying Roman times at school. I remember all the mosaic floors which are so well preserved and the fact that you can walk around them on gangways. It is one of the best examples of Roman life in Sussex and definitely worth a visit easy to find, with plenty of parking and a cafe on site. There is also a recreated Roman garden outside which is worth exploring. You would probably need around half a day to see it properly.

More details

• Top Tip – It is generally quieter off-season and because a lot of it is inside the bad weather will not hamper your visit very much. 
• What is there for kids – There are lots to learn and see at Fishbourne Roman Palace it makes a great day trip if your children are studying Romans at school. 
• Fishbourne Roman Palace address and postcode – Fishbourne Roman Palace, Roman Way, Chichester PO19 3QR
• Ticket prices – Adults cost £13.20 with gift aid or £12 without. children £6.60/£6, a family of two adults and up to four children cost £35.80/£35 and a family with one adult costs £22/£20.
• Opening times – Opening times for th historical site depend on the season from the 2nd of January to the 12th of February they are open at weekends only from 10 am to 4 pm. From March through to the end of September they are open 10 am to 5 pm. In February, October and November they are open from 10 am to 4 pm. They are shut for the rest of the year. 
• https://sussexpast.co.uk/attraction/fishbourne-roman-palace/

 

Things to do in West Sussex – Related Blog Posts

If you have enjoyed this post then you may also be of interest in these other articles:

• If you are thinking of visiting Bognor Regis then it has a great park Hotham Park or check out our 15 Things to do in Bognor Regis and Felpham.
• Depending on the time of year you visit you may want to see the Lupin Flower Field which is beautiful between the end of May and late August.
• If you are a member of the National Trust, then these are our Top 10 National Trust places to visit in Sussex 
• Read all about other days out in West Sussex under our County Pages – West Sussex

 

I hope that gives you some ideas for the best things to do in the area. Have you visited? Please let me know about your best West Sussex days out in the comments below.

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