Quietly working its way into must-visit lists, West Sussex boasts an embarrassment of riches. Stepping into the spotlight thanks to incredible art, award-winning Sussex wine, heritage stories and glorious landscapes to lose yourself in, here are 10 reasons why 2025 should be the year you visit.
Join the celebrations for Chichester Cathedral’s 950th anniversary
The celebrations marking 950 years since the decision to establish a Cathedral in Chichester stretch from February until November and include a thought-provoking exhibition, street party, a light installation and a concert. The Cathedral welcomes everyone to join the celebrations, which will be amplified across the city.
Walk the West Sussex coast
The newest extension of the King Charles III coast path is due to open autumn 2025, improving coastal access to allow walkers to explore 78km west from East Head at West Wittering Beach towards Hayling Island on the Hampshire coast. Connecting to the stretch of the coast path heading East to Shoreham by Sea which opened in autumn 2023, the new section presents a great opportunity to explore the shores of Chichester Harbour, the harbour-side villages of Itchenor, Bosham, Fishbourne, Chidham and on to Thorney Island, Emsworth and Hayling Island.
Try a West Sussex tipple
West Sussex wine goes from strength to strength, with vineyards offering you wonderful ways to explore and learn about wine and immersive ways to step away from the every day. Luxury lodges for unforgettable stays, fabulous restaurants for culinary delights plus tours, tastings, and even afternoon tea – it’s all here.
Cycle West Sussex
One of our favourite routes, Centurion Way which leads from Chichester to West Dean, is being extended, with the first additional section due to open in late spring 2025. With a variety of terrain to explore from the wooded countryside of Kingley Vale to routes exploring the coastal plain, like Route 88, why not make 2025 the year you explore here. Why not hire a local guide to help you discover the area’s gems? Marmalade MTB and E-Bike Tours Chichester offer a range of cycling trips with one sure to catch your eye. Bike hire is also on hand here.
Enjoy excellent Sussex produce
With notable new openings like The Ghost at The Feast in Chichester and The Woodcote in Graffham (both of whom proudly champion local ingredients), the West Sussex food scene looks exceedingly good. New openings aside, foodies have been finding their way to West Sussex for some time, exploring the fresh, seasonal offerings and authentic, artisanal producers, all wrapped up with a warm Sussex welcome.
Admire amazing art
Skip the London queues and discover outstanding art in West Sussex. The quality of shows you can expect to see at Chichester’s Pallant House Gallery and Newlands House Gallery in Petworth is outstanding, with Modern British Art truly stepping into the spotlight. Current exhibitions showcase Dora Carrington (Pallant House Gallery) and Adam Dant(Newlands House Gallery).
Ride the railway
Leave the car at home in the year that rail travel celebrates its 200th anniversary. There’s a good network of train lines in West Sussex to make your journey part of the adventure. To this day, railways offer glimpses of a unique view as you speed toward your destination. Trains connect Chichester to the villages of Fishbourne and Bosham, on Chichester Harbour, as well as Arundel, home to Arundel Castle, and picturesque Amberley, offering you inspiration for a variety of adventures, whether they’re walking, cycling, historical explorations or sightseeing. Look out for our railway itineraries coming in the new year.
Delve into the stories of Midhurst
Did you know the town of Midhurst, sitting prettily at the heart of the South Downs National Park, is a treasure trove of tales, with royal connections, horological heritage, and literary links? Soak up the atmosphere of The Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa, one of England’s oldest coaching inns which dates back to 1430 and is home to what is thought to be one of the last wig closets in a hotel in England, and a secret passage thought to be used by smuggling gangs. Will you find the remains of a castle as you explore
Explore Petworth
Spend a weekend in Petworth immersing yourself in this picturesque town. Think fabulous independent stores brimming with things you won’t see on every high street, a veritable treasure trove of antique dealers where you can find unique and quirky gifts or collectables, and fabulous places to sit and sip coffee, enjoy a light bite, or savour fine dining. Add in art galleries and one of West Sussex’s most renowned food stores and your weekend is made.
Go on a wildlife discovery
Whether you hop aboard a Chichester Harbour boat tour or really take your time to explore a Nature Reserve, spending time appreciating the nature around you is good for your mental health. In one visit you might see seals, an array of wading birds or waterfowl, seabirds and birds of prey.