Discover the best villages in Sussex for an idyllic countryside getaway, including recommendations on things to do and where to stay.
When people think of picturesque English villages, the Cotswolds tends to come to mind. But not far from London, Sussex has its fair share of idyllic villages that could easily rival it.
Sussex is a historic county in the South East of England with over 100 miles of breathtaking coast, making it a very popular place for a getaway for people all over the UK.
Divided into two separate counties, East and West Sussex, this is one of the most beautiful areas in England.
From picturesque villages and seaside towns, to stunning national parks and fairy tale castles; from historic train rides like the Bluebell Railway, to kayaking adventures on the River Arun, Sussex will surprise you at every turn.
This is why, no matter the time of the year, this underrated corner of the South East of England is the perfect place for a break.
So I’ve put together a selection of the best villages in Sussex for an idyllic countryside getaway, together with my personal shortlist of holiday cottages by Classic Cottages in Sussex.
Table of Contents
The best villages in Sussex for a countryside escape
Battle, East Sussex
Located in the heart of 1066 Country, Battle is named after the famous Battle of Hastings, that, as the name suggests, took place in 1066. The village is located on the site of England’s most famous battle, and it’s full of history.
The most popular sights in Battle include the Abbey and the battlefield, where you may be able to witness a reenactment of this famous historic event.
A short drive from Battle you will find Bodiam Castle, a fairy-tale moated castle that will capture your imagination. And if you are looking for a bit of adventure, you can kayak all the way to the castle from Bodiam Boating Station.
Where to stay near Battle
Hill Farm Cottage is a cute oak framed Sussex barn located less than 10 mins drive from Battle. It’s ideal for that relaxing countryside break while having easy access to one of the most emblematic villages in Sussex.
It’s equipped with underfloor heating for a cosy winter escape, and concertina glass doors that let you admire the beautiful views on a sunny day.
Lewes, East Sussex
Located close to Brighton, Lewes is more a small town than a village, but it’s such a picturesque place that I think it deserves an entry here.
Surrounded by chalk cliffs, Lewes will take you back in time as you wander around its medieval streets and twittens (alleyways in Sussex).
For history buffs, you will be able to visit the remains of the 1,000-year-old Norman Castle and Museum, as well as Anne of Cleaves House, the former home of Henry VIII’s fourth wife.
If you are craving a bit of outdoors, head down to Seaford on the south coast, less than 10 miles away, where you can hike along the famous Seven Sisters Country Park, one of the most popular hikes with Londoners as well as Southerners.
Stop at Birling Gap for a cream tea, and admire the views from Beachy Head, the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain, rising to 530 feet (162 metres) at its highest point above sea level.
Where to stay in Lewes
The Pigeon House is a great place to spend a few days getting away from everything. As soon as you step through the door you will fall in love with this cottage full of character. The exposed wooden beams give this hidden gem an old world charm ideal for a bit of escapism.
The bedroom has views over Anne of Cleves House and the Victorian bathtub is perfect to relax in at the end of the day.
Alfriston, East Sussex
Located on the banks of the Cuckmere River, at the foot of the South Downs, Alfriston is one of the many pretty villages in Sussex that are a must visit. It may be a small village, but it has a lot going on.
The village centre is full of independent shops and coffee shops, laid out all along its twisting High Street. Don’t miss the award winning bookshop, Much Ado, and make sure you stop at one of the tea rooms for a delicious selection of cream teas.
Not far from the High Street, you will find the Tye Village Green, the magnificent St Andrew’s Church, known as ‘the Cathedral of the Downs’, and the Glergy House, the first property purchased by the National Trust.
Where to stay in Alfriston
Danny House is a Grade II listed timber-framed thatched cottage that dates back to the 16th century. It’s located on the edge of Alfriston, so it’s one of the best places to explore both this Sussex village and the South Downs National Park.
It sleeps 5, so it’s perfect to get away and gather around the fireplace, which has a wood burner effect electric stove, with a few friends.
Rye, East Sussex
Rye, East Sussex is possibly one of my favourite villages in Sussex and a popular day trip destination from London. But there is more than enough in Rye to make you visit for longer than a day.
Much like Castle Combe in the Cotswolds, Rye is the poster child of Sussex villages. Its most famous attraction is Mermaid Street, a steep cobble-stoned street lined up with higgledy-piggledy half-timbered historic buildings, some of which date back to the 12th century.
The 13th century Ypres Tower was part of a line of defence along the coast, and a must visit with spectacular sea views.
Nearby you have Camber Sands, which unusually is not a pebble beach, but the only sandy beach in Sussex.
The village and the whole area is a favourite destination with poets and artists, and it’s easy to see why. The light and the atmosphere in Rye is very relaxed and life slows right down.
Where to stay near Rye
Located in the hamlet of Beckley, 10 minutes’ drive from Rye, 4 Roberts Row is perfect for that idyllic countryside break, while having easy access to one of the prettiest villages in Sussex.
A cute cottage full of character, that’s been decorated with a nautical theme while maintaining its original countryside features. The country kitchen will make you want to cook and have one or two cosy nights in.
Crowborough, East Sussex
Located a short drive from Tunbridge Wells, Crowborough is one of the best towns to explore the High Weald, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, famous for being the setting for the Winnie The Pooh books.
Crowborough is also on the edge of Ashdown Forest, one of the best places to see bluebells in the spring, and it’s also near Forest Row, a centre for organic produce and services with a big sustainable community.
The whole area surrounding Crowborough is a walker’s paradise, so it’s ideal for the perfect getaway.
Where to stay near Crowborough
The Tea Hut is a sweet self-contained studio which has been beautifully renovated. It is perfectly located to explore Ashdown Forest and the High Weald, so bring your hiking boots!
For something a bit bigger, check out Medleys Barn just across the courtyard.
Petworth, West Sussex
Petworth is a market town in the heart of the South Downs National Park, with the perfect blend of history, culture and a bustling High Street.
This makes Petworth a very desirable place to live, so property prices are some of the highest in the country. But this doesn’t mean that enjoying this lovely town is out of reach. It has the perfect blend of things to do for that perfect countryside break.
Petworth House is probably its biggest attraction, a 17th century property run by the National Trust with one of the finest art collections in the country. Once a year, the town celebrates the famous Fete in the Park, as well as the well known Petworth Festival.
If you are a fan of antiques, Petworth has plenty of antiques shops – 37 of them within a half-mile radius! It’s thanks to this that it has been voted the Best Antiques Town.
Where to stay near Petworth
Lodsworth Rural Retreat is located in the village of Lodsworth, which is less than 10 minutes drive from Petworth.
And as it’s right in the heart of the South Downs National Park, it is ideal to explore the countryside. There are some beautiful walks straight out of the Retreat’s doorstep, that will get you away from everything.
There is a mezzanine snug that it’s perfect to relax in with a book at the end of the day.
Would you add to this list of best villages in Sussex?
Let me know in the comments!
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Disclosure: This post has been created as a partnership with Classic Cottages. As always, all views are my own.