Sussex Bay

Sussex Bay is a regional collaboration working to restore our ocean while supporting thriving coastal communities and sustainable local economies, across 100 miles of coastline for 1.7 million residents.

Camber Sands is a beach in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_Sussex" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(51, 102, 204);">East Sussex</a>, England, in the village of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camber,_East_Sussex" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(51, 102, 204);">Camber</a>, near <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rye,_East_Sussex" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(51, 102, 204);">Rye</a>. It is the only <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sand_dune_system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(51, 102, 204);">sand dune system</a> in East Sussex.<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camber_Sands#cite_note-council-1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(51, 102, 204);">[1]</a> Located east of the estuary of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/River_Rother_(Eastern)" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(51, 102, 204);">River Rother</a> at Rye Bay, it stretches 3 miles (4.8 km) to just beyond the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kent" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(51, 102, 204);">Kent</a> border, where shingle (pebbles) take over again. It is one of three stretches of sand above the high tide mark east of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poole_Bay" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(51, 102, 204);">Poole Bay</a> on England's south coast, the others being <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Wittering" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(51, 102, 204);">West Wittering</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avon_Beach" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(51, 102, 204);">Avon Beach</a>. <a href="https://www.rother.gov.uk/leisure-and-events/beaches-and-coastline/camber-sands/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(32, 33, 34);">More info </a>﻿

Camber Sands

Dungeness is a headland on the coast of Kent, England, formed largely of a shingle beach in the form of a cuspate foreland. It shelters a large area of low-lying land, Romney Marsh. Dungeness spans Dungeness Nuclear Power Station, the hamlet of Dungeness, and an ecological site at the same location. <a href="https://dungeness.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(31, 31, 31);">More info </a>﻿

Dungeness

<h1 class="ql-align-center">Welcome to The Old Lighthouse </h1>Discover the Landmark of DungenessStep into history and experience the unique charm of The Old Lighthouse, an iconic beacon standing proudly on the shingle shores of Dungeness, Kent. As a Grade II listed building, our lighthouse has welcomed generations of visitors and continues to inspire with its breathtaking views, striking industrial architecture, and rich maritime heritage. <a href="https://dungenesslighthouse.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">More info</a>

If you've yet to be dazzled by star gazing in West Sussex, now could be the time to try. There are only 19 International Dark Sky Reserves in the world and the South Downs National Park is one of them. With miles of pristine rolling hills, a collection of Dark Sky Discovery Sites, its own planetarium and an annual <a href="https://www.thegreatsussexway.org/event/south-downs-national-park-dark-skies-festival/214533101/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(43, 125, 177);">Dark Skies Festival,</a> Sussex offers some of the best star-gazing opportunities around. Here's our tips for out of this world star gazing spots in West Sussex... <a href="https://www.thegreatsussexway.org/ideas-and-inspiration/news-and-blogs/post/stargazing-west-sussex/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(74, 87, 104);">Find out more</a>

Black Down and various locations

One of the finest examples of a Victorian pier, Eastbourne's stunning seafront landmark is fully open for business with a brand new walkway since the fire of 2014. Eastbourne Pier has a variety of shops, a chippy, Waterfront cafe/bar, Atlantis nightclub, Victorian Tea Rooms, Coffee Republic, fishing and fantastic views of the English Channel. <a href="https://www.visiteastbourne.com/things-to-do/eastbourne-pier-p1238091" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(77, 76, 76);">Opening Times</a>

Eastbourne Pier

Follow the Seals! In the seaside town of Selsey, follow the trail made up of special seal signposts. Each seal has its very own QR code, which when scanned allows you to discover more about Selsey's heritage and of course its wildlife. Along the way you'll explore each seal, with their unique Selsey-themed designs by art students from <a href="https://www.chichester.ac.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(43, 125, 177);">Chichester College </a>and finish armed with a wealth of knowledge about the town - from its fishing heritage to its famous dark skies. You can discover more things to do in Selsey <a href="https://dev-visit-chichester.pantheonsite.io/things-to-do-in-selsey/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(43, 125, 177);">here</a> from enjoying the long stretches of sunny shoreline, and witnessing its abundant wildlife to exploring the quirky railway carriage homes - and of course, you can't visit Selsey without indulging in some world-famous Selsey crab. Find out more about where you can sample the seafood <a href="https://dev-visit-chichester.pantheonsite.io/food-and-drink-shopping-in-selsey/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(43, 125, 177);">here</a>. <a href="https://www.destinationselsey.co.uk/selsey-seal-art-trail/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(57, 59, 58);">Follow the trail here</a>

Start the trail at Selsey Pavilion

Selsey Pavilion

Located on the Sussex coast, Bognor Regis is a great seaside resort with it’s safe Seaside Award winning beach and the highest hours of sunshine on the south coast.&nbsp;&nbsp;Protected by Selsey Bill and the Isle of Wight the town has its own micro climate making it a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the sunshine and sea air.&nbsp;&nbsp;There is plenty to keep you busy and you won’t have to look far to find things to do in Bognor Regis and the surrounding areas. From the beautiful coastline, to the shops, restaurants and seaside attractions and for nature lovers there is the South Downs, the Wetlands in Arundel and the Witterings a short drive away, in addition to the wonderful Hotham Park in Bognor Regis. There is plenty to keep you and the whole family entertained and with our new Bognor Regis trails you can explore the rich history of the town and discover the rare and unusual trees planted in Hotham Park by William Fletcher over 100 years ago. <a href="https://bognorregistrails.co.uk/trails/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Link to Trails</a>

Bognor Regis Pier

Whether you want a short walk that takes in the sights of the historical town, a hike in the surrounding countryside or an off-road challenge in the South Downs, Arundel is perfect. The town is located between the South Coast and the South Downs National Park, on the banks of the River Arun. This region is one of the sunniest parts of the UK and is famous for its history, rolling hills, verdant hedgerows, beautiful coastline and romantic landscapes. Arundel is the perfect centre for exploring this ancient landscape, and for discovering the region’s history and architecture on foot or by bicycle. Our town is very walking and cycling friendly, with ample car parking in Mill Road, a small amount of bicycle parking in the town centre and a direct train link to London. There is a water fountain at the corner of Arun Street and the High Street, and you will find a warm welcome at the many shops, cafes and pubs displaying a ‘Welcome Walkers and Cyclists’ sticker. <a href="https://www.visitarundel.co.uk/countryside-and-walks/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(117, 120, 123);">More info</a>﻿

Arundel

Are you looking for something to do with your friends and family in your local area this spring/summer/autumn? The Sunset Survey (April – October) brings you a perfect opportunity to get together with family/friends and discover bats and other wildlife in your local area. This is ideal for you if you don’t have previous bat surveying experience. Just spend an hour from sunset (or before sunrise) and let us know what you see/hear from your window, balcony, garden or local green space.See how to take part and submit your sightings <a href="https://www.bats.org.uk/our-work/national-bat-monitoring-programme/getting-started/sunset-survey" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(122, 187, 179);">here</a>.

The Sunset Survey - Bat Conservation Trust

Norfolk Gardens is situated on Littlehampton Seafront, offering 3 all weather tennis courts, 4 compact tennis courts, 9 hole Par 3 links style Golf course, 9 hole Pirate themed Adventure Golf course ‘Buccaneer Bay’ and lawn bowls. A visit to Norfolk Gardens is a great way to stay active, enjoy the outdoors and make memories with family and friends. All activities are open to the public. Our ever popular ‘Buccaneer Bay Adventure Golf’. Buccaneer Bay is a Pirate themed 9-hole adventure golf course which navigates you through gunpowder barrels, treasure chests, cannons. Beware, beware of ‘Deadman’s Corner’ this could be a tricky shot. Adventure golf is great fun for all ages and skills, you just need a bit of luck! <a href="https://isslifestyle.co.uk/sites/norfolk-gardens-littlehampton/#facility-crazy-adventure-golf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(98, 99, 98);">More info </a>﻿

Norfolk Gardens, Littlehampton

Bracklesham Bay is a quiet shingle and sand beach in West Sussex, popular for its safe waters and relaxed coastal vibe. Located on the Manhood Peninsula, it sits about 7 miles south of Chichester and features sweeping views of the Isle of Wight. It is highly regarded for watersports, fossil hunting, and stunning sunsets. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bracklesham_Bay" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">More info </a>

Bracklesham Bay

<h1>Chichester Street Art Trail</h1>As well as being the county capital of West Sussex, home to <a href="https://www.thegreatsussexway.org/listing/chichester-city-walls-walk/207491101/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(43, 125, 177);">Roman ruins</a> and cultural hotspots such as the <a href="https://www.thegreatsussexway.org/listing/pallant-house-gallery/207450101/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(43, 125, 177);">Pallant House Gallery</a> and <a href="https://www.thegreatsussexway.org/listing/chichester-festival-theatre/207453101/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(43, 125, 177);">Chichester Festival Theatre</a>, Chichester also hosts an array of street art by internationally renowned artists.In May 2013, Neil Lawson Baker and Street Art London organised jointly the Chichester Street Art Festival.&nbsp;Curated by Richard Howard-Griffin of Street Art London, some of the leading street artists descended on the city to paint, including Stik, Liqen and Thierry Noir.Most of their artwork is still there and in celebration of the 10th anniversary of the festival, we got the lowdown from local street art hunter Ali Richards, who shared her recommended route to see all the best pieces.Although most Chichester street art can be accessed by walking around the city centre, our first stop is just outside it, on the corner of Spitalfield Lane and St Pancras at Cathedral Garage.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.thegreatsussexway.org/chichester-street-art-trail/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">More Info </a>

Cathedral Garage

Another great option for a free family day out in nature is <a href="https://www.thegreatsussexway.org/listing/rspb-pagham-harbour/207463101/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: rgb(43, 125, 177);">Pagham Harbour</a>, an internationally important nature reserve covering over 600 hectares. Salt marshes, tidal mudflats, shingle, wet grasslands and reed swamps make up this beautifully varied landscape, with a network of birdwatching hides dotted along the trails offering sheltered spots to sit, watch and take in the views across the harbour.It's a wonderfully peaceful setting for a budget friendly family day out, and you don't need to be an expert to enjoy it, just bring a pair of binoculars and see what you can spot. The RSPB Visitor Centre offers fun, free trails for children to enjoy, as well as information on what to see, walking routes, cycling routes and the latest sightings, plus takeaway drinks and snacks, making it easy to build a full, free day of family adventuring. Note that car parking charges apply for non RSPB members. <a href="https://www.thegreatsussexway.org/listing/rspb-pagham-harbour/207463101/" rel="noopener noreferrer">For more info </a>

RSPB Pagham Harbour:  Free Family Nature Trail

Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve

Crabbing is one of the best free family activities in West Sussex, providing hours of entertainment as you see which different types of crabs you can collect. All you need is a crab line, a bucket of water to keep your catches in before returning them to the sea, and some bait (uncooked bacon works a treat). Be gentle as you look at your specimens, to help prevent little fingers being nipped. Great free spots to try this out are Snowhill Creek at West Wittering beach, as well as the harbourside villages of <a href="https://www.thegreatsussexway.org/about-the-area/bosham/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(43, 125, 177);">Bosham</a>, <a href="https://www.thegreatsussexway.org/about-the-area/itchenor/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(43, 125, 177);">Itchenor</a> and <a href="https://www.thegreatsussexway.org/about-the-area/harbour-villages/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(43, 125, 177);">Dell Quay</a>.Snowhill Creek can be found at the westerly end of West Wittering beach (furthest from the car park entrance if you're driving), or if using public transport, follow Coastguard Lane to the end. <a href="https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/v1/clients/greatsussexway/To_the_crabbing_pool_from_West_Wittering_Beach_Car_240326_163311_5a553936-4a00-419b-8151-bb46ffedf77b.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">For more info</a>

Snowhill Creek

<h2>SustainabiliTEA Meet Up at WRAP Space - Summer Drinks on the Rooftop</h2>by <a href="https://www.brightonchamber.co.uk/member/bird-blend-tea-co" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 191, 211);">Bird &amp; Blend Tea Co.</a>An informal networking event on July 30th for like-minded people and businesses who care about social and environmental impact. <a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sustainabilitea-meet-up-at-wrap-space-summer-drinks-on-the-rooftop-tickets-1988332049685" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgb(0, 191, 211); color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">&gt; Book now</a> Join us for a special SustainabiliTEA Meet Up on July 30th at WRAP Rooftop in Brighton for summer drinks - Iced Tea/Iced mocktails. Networking &amp; delicious tea in an inspirational setting. Meet like-minded people, network with other purpose led local businesses, share knowledge &amp; challenges over a refreshing fruity iced tea or tea mocktail from Bird &amp; Blend tea.Hear a couple of 'lightning talks' from businesses sharing their sustainability and impact initiatives, knowledge share &amp; ask for help and support too.Ticket fees donated to <a href="https://www.sussexbay.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 191, 211);">Sussex Bay</a>, a charity both <a href="https://wrap.space/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 191, 211);">WRAP Space</a> and <a href="https://www.birdandblendtea.com/pages/wholesale" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 191, 211);">Bird &amp; Blend</a> support.

Wrap Brighton

<h4>Sussex Marine and Coastal Forum</h4>Throughout Sussex Bay, there are several hundred groups, organisations and networks operating across the marine and intertidal areas. Sussex Bay is delighted to be part of the Sussex Marine and Costal Forum, a collaborative gathering, four times a year, of 22 members operating in parts of Sussex Bay. Members are committed to the conservation and enhancement of the marine and coastal environment. The current Chair is <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gray-4b950428/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(255, 92, 53);">Nick Gray</a>. From January 2026, following support from members, the Chair is <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-spears-uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(255, 92, 53);">Dean Spears</a>. We thank Nick for his past three years of service and look forward to welcoming Dean into the role.Members: Adur &amp; Worthing Councils, with Sussex Bay. Brighton University. Chichester District Council. Chichester Harbour Conservancy. The Crown Estate. East Sussex County Council. Environment Agency. Lewes &amp; Eastbourne Councils. Marine Conservation Society. Marine Management Organisation. National Trust. Natural England. RSPB. RS Aqua. Shoreham Port. Southern Water. South Downs National Park Authority. Sussex Dolphin Project. Sussex IFCA. Sussex Wildlife Trust. The Living Coast. United Nations Association (Climate and Oceans) <a href="https://sussexlnp.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find out more</a>

The 10-day annual Arundel Festival is a joyful and uplifting celebration of music, art, theatre, culture, food, and drink in our historic West Sussex town. Click for more info

Sussex Bay

Visit Camber Sands

Visit Dungeness

The Old Lighthouse Dungeness

The Night Sky at Halnaker Windmill

Visit Eastbourne Pier

Selsey Seal Art Trail: Free Family Trail

Bognor Regis Heritage Trails

Arundel countryside walks and cycling

The Sunset Survey - Bat Conservation Trust

Norfolk Gardens, Littlehampton

Visit Bracklesham Bay

Chichester Street Art Trail

RSPB Pagham Harbour: Free Family Nature Trail

Crabbing at Snowhill Creek

SustainabiliTEA Meet Up

Sussex Marine and Coastal Forum