The winter is finally easing off, and the sun’s coming back, which means that all good Brits are stripping off and pretending it’s an early summer. You might not be ready for a bikini or swimming shorts just yet, but it’s definitely time to make the most of some nicer weather. While Sussex is just a short trip from London, meaning the county has great transport links to the whole country, a weekend break there will convince you you’re worlds away. Here are 6 ideas for how to welcome the spring with a trip to Sussex:
Get tickets to the Sussex Beer & Cider Festival
This event at the beginning of March is just near Brighton, so have a look at one of our Brighton hotels and plan a weekend of discerning degustation, (also known as boozing). What better way to appreciate the weather than to sit outside on a picnic bench with a pint? There’ll be a band playing and over 200 beers to try, so this is a spring weekend not to miss out on.
Wander along the Seven Sisters
These classic chalk cliffs are iconic. Spring is all about brisk walks in the sea air, or skimming stones on the pebble beaches. You might want to bring a blanket to wrap up in, as well as to sit on, but there’s nothing like a picnic in the spring sun at Birling Gap.
Visit Drusillas Park
Just a short drive from Eastbourne hotels, Drusillas Park is widely regarded as the best small zoo in the UK. Kids will love getting nose to nose with penguins, meerkats, monkeys, crocodiles, and hundreds of other animals, as well as the indoor play areas and the “Zoolympics”, which lets them compare their athletic abilities to those of various animals.
Climb to Lewes Castle
This Norman stronghold stands impressively over Lewes, and is well worth exploring. A ticket also gets you entry to The Barbican House Museum, which is home to the Sussex Archaeological Society and their fascinating findings. Watch out for special events, as the castle often plays hosts to demonstration days and serves as a stage for several plays a year.
Look around the Royal Pavilion
If you’re staying in Brighton, you can’t miss the opportunity to see one of the country’s greatest architectural oddities. This extraordinary palace, built for George, Prince Regent, starting in 1787, is full of kooky oriental interiors and lavish luxuries. Enjoy the weather by going for a stroll around the grounds, and imagine royalty lounging in their pleasure palace.
Go to Goodwood
This racetrack is any car enthusiast’s dream. Get the chance to watch the best in motoring whiz around the track and terrifying speeds, and smell the rubber burn. If you’re looking to treat someone, or yourself, there are track day experiences on offer, that give someone the opportunity to try out driving something cool around the track for themselves.
