Reasons to Visit East Sussex
As the capital gears up for an influx of visitors thanks to the Olympic Games this summer, other tourist destinations in England are hoping that global visitors find the time to get out of London for a taste of the great English countryside. East Sussex is a county located in the South East of England, next to Kent, Surrey, West Sussex and the English Channel. It is known as one of the greenest and most pleasant counties in the country, and is a popular tourist destination for a variety of reasons.
The county of East Sussex is situated on the South Downs, a range of chalk kills which stretch 260 square miles down the South-East coast of England, from Beachy Head in the East to the Itchen Valley in Hampshire. The downs are made up of smooth chalk download and dry valleys, and it is considered one of the most important chalk landscapes in the country.
The South Saxons established themselves in Sussex in the 5th century after the Romans left. Various historically-significant archaeological remains can be found in the county, and it was repeatedly invaded by Romans and Normans due to its position on the South-Easterly corner of the UK. East Sussex is home to several historic landmarks, including castles at Bodiam, Herstmonceux, Lewes and Pevensey. There are also defence works at Martello Towers and Battle Abbey.
- Bodiam Castle, East SussexEtrusia UK
Beachy Head is one of the most popular places to visit in East Sussex. Beachy Head is a chalk headland located close to Eastbourne. It’s the highest chalk sea cliff in the country, rising 530 feet above sea level. From the top of the cliffs visitors can see all the way from Selsey Bill to Dungeness. Nature lovers also enjoy a wide range of public footpaths and nature walks in the area, including South Down Way, Saxon Shore Way, Sussex Border Path, Sussex Ouse Valley Way and The Monarch’s Way.
As well as historical landmarks and some of the most beautiful nature walks in the country, there are also plenty of adventurous activities available in the county to keep lively visitors satisfied. In Forest Row visitors can enjoy a zorbing experience, which entails rolling down a hill encased in a giant inflatable ball. Imported from New Zealand, zorbing is as much fun as it sounds.
Visitors with families will be pleased to hear that there are a number of adventure parks in East Sussex to keep the whole family amused. One of the best is Drusillas Park, an animal and adventure park which is ideal for families with children. The kids can get a peek at some fascinating animals like meerkats, penguins and lemurs, and can enjoy climbing, sliding, jumping and swinging around several themed play parks. There is also a maze and a Thomas the Tank Engine train service.
If you’re visiting the UK for the London Olympics, then consider taking a trip to East Sussex, one of the most beautiful and interesting parts of the country.