East Sussex (Brighton city, seaside resorts and smugglers!)

Rye, Ava Lily

East Sussex is a large sunny county, which borders West Sussex and Kent to the east. It has many seaside resorts, parts of the South Downs National Park and many pretty inland Weald villages.

The town of Hastings has two cliff lifts (funicular railways) and a strong history of smuggling (shiver me timbers!) It’s also a very bohemian town, not far from Battle and the hilly town of Rye.

If out walking, follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe (learn how to upright an overturned sheep). Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms, cliffs and toxic plants/trees. 

At the coast, keep dogs away from nesting birds and sand dunes. Read how to keep dogs safe by the seaside. Check beach bans before travel. 

Brighton: A Vibrant Seaside City

This is like England’s version of San Francisco – all vegan, gay and musical vibes, although also as well as high homelessness issue.

Home to England’s first ever Green MP (Caroline Lucas) today it still has a Green MP and is very much at the forefront of environemental issues.

Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters

This is sadly a famous suicide spot, although local chaplains have saved many lives. The Seven Sisters are a series of white cliffs that look out over the English channel. Avoid the edges (you and dogs) as the wind can be fierce.

Rye: A Medieval Gem

This hilly town is ancient and beautiful, and near to an important nature reserve. All timber-framed buildings and ancient churches and cobbled streets. The winding streets are full of small galleries and restaurants, and quirky shops.

Nearby is one of England’s only independent supermarkets, in Peasmarsh.

Battle and the Story of 1066

The 1066 battle was actually here (but could not really be called the Battle of Battle, which is why it’s called the Battle of Hastings).

The abbey and surrounding  grounds are worth a visit, as is nearby  Bodiam Castle.