East Sussex: the county's best outdoor attractions
April 11, 2025
East Sussex is a land that delights outdoor and nature lovers. Picturesque landscapes, diverse terrain and an abundance of attractions make it an ideal destination for family adventures in nature. Whether you're looking for leisurely hikes, exciting amusement parks or just want to enjoy the beauty of nature, East Sussex has something for everyone. In this article, we'll highlight the best outdoor attractions that will make your stay in this county unforgettable. From majestic scenic parks to exciting adventure parks, explore the places that will make your family love East Sussex!
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Natural beauty in East Sussex
East Sussex is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and green spaces that are a paradise for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Two special places stand out on the map of this region: High Weald National Landscape and Seven Sisters Country Park.
The High Weald National Landscape is an area of outstanding natural beauty that stretches across much of East Sussex. This picturesque area is characterized by gentle hills, dense forests and charming villages. Visitors can enjoy the numerous hiking and biking trails that lead through the region's most charming corners. A rating of 4.5/5 based on user reviews attests to the high quality of the experience the place offers. Reviewers emphasize that High Weald is 'well-maintained, well-organized, worth a visit. It is an ideal place for family outings, picnics or quiet walks surrounded by nature.
Seven Sisters Country Park, on the other hand, is one of the most recognizable landscapes in England. The park is famous for its distinctive white chalk cliffs that rise majestically above the seashore. A rating of 4.8/5 indicates that it is a place exceptionally valued by visitors. Tourists praise the 'beautiful views' and 'the perfect place for a picnic or a long walk'. The park offers a variety of walking trails of varying levels of difficulty, making it suitable for families with children as well as more experienced hikers.
Comparing the two, it's worth noting that the High Weald National Landscape offers a more diverse landscape and more space for exploration, making it ideal for longer hikes and more intense outdoor activities. Seven Sisters Country Park, on the other hand, focuses on the spectacular view of the cliffs and the sea, making it perfect for shorter but extremely scenic walks and photo shoots.
Both places are perfectly suited for family visits. High Weald offers numerous picnic spots and easy trails, perfect for the youngest explorers. Seven Sisters, on the other hand, offers fascinating beaches at the foot of the cliffs, where children can observe marine wildlife and collect shells.
It is worth remembering that both High Weald and Seven Sisters are subject to seasonal changes. In spring and summer, the parks are vibrant and colorful, offering ideal conditions for walks and picnics. In autumn, the landscapes take on warm, golden hues, creating a magical setting. Winter, though colder, can offer unique experiences, such as the misty, mysterious landscape of the High Weald or the dramatic views of the sea stirred up by winter storms at Seven Sisters.
Both places are accessible year-round, but it's always a good idea to check the current weather and trail conditions before visiting. Also, remember to be properly prepared - comfortable trekking shoes, warm clothes (especially in colder weather) and a supply of water are essential for a successful hike in these scenic corners of East Sussex.
Adventure and Adrenaline in East Sussex
For those looking for a little more excitement and activity during their stay in East Sussex, the ideal destination is Knockhatch Adventure Park. This amusement and adventure park offers a wide range of attractions that will provide an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Knockhatch Adventure Park, with a rating of 4.6/5 based on guest reviews, is a place that combines elements of an amusement park, a mini zoo and an outdoor activity center. The park offers a variety of attractions that will please both young and old guests. Among the most popular attractions are:
- splash zone (Splash Zone) - ideal for hot days, allows children to cool off and play in the water.
- Owl Shows - a fascinating educational attraction where you can admire these majestic birds up close.
- Rides - the park offers a variety of rides, including a go-kart race track and Wave Runner.
- Chestnut Wood Playground and Dragon Castle - expansive playgrounds where kids can let off steam.
- bungee trampolines - for jumping and adrenaline lovers.
Visitors praise the park for the variety of attractions and the possibility of spending a whole day on active fun. One reviewer writes: 'We had a great time, they had a variety of activities, so many things to do, we did more outdoor activities because the weather was nice.'
It's worth noting, however, that some guests find the prices a bit high, especially during peak season. One commenter points out: 'This place is a hidden gem, it's quite expensive at £90 for a family of five, but we took advantage of club card coupons and took our own lunch, there was so much to do.'
For those who prefer a slightly quieter but still active pastime, an excellent alternative is Arlington Reservoir. It's a scenic reservoir surrounded by walking paths that offers a quieter form of outdoor recreation.
Arlington Reservoir, with a rating of 4.6/5, is a place valued for its natural beauty and opportunities for active recreation. Main attractions include:
- walking path around the reservoir - ideal for leisurely strolls or jogging.
- Bird watching - there is a bird sanctuary in the area, making the place a paradise for ornithology enthusiasts.
- Fishing - the reservoir is a popular destination for anglers.
- Picnics - numerous benches and picnic tables encourage outdoor relaxation.
Visitors praise Arlington Reservoir for its peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained paths. One visitor writes: 'An easy walk around this reservoir along a well-maintained path, there is a bird sanctuary along the way, unfortunately not much to see today. There is parking, a cafe and toilets, and dogs are welcome, but I think they need to be kept on a leash.
Comparing Knockhatch Adventure Park and Arlington Reservoir, we can see that they offer very different experiences. Knockhatch is ideal for families looking for intense, action-packed entertainment, while Arlington Reservoir is a quieter place, perfect for relaxing walks and communing with nature.
Knockhatch Adventure Park is more suitable for families with children of all ages, offering a wide range of attractions. Arlington Reservoir, on the other hand, may be a better choice for those seeking peace and quiet, nature lovers or older people who prefer gentler activities.
Note that Knockhatch Adventure Park can be crowded on weekends and during school vacations, while Arlington Reservoir typically offers a more peaceful atmosphere year-round. Admission prices at Knockhatch are higher, but it offers more activities, while Arlington Reservoir is a cheaper option, with a parking fee of around £2.50 for the whole day (as of 2023).
Both sites are available year-round, but some attractions at Knockhatch Adventure Park may be seasonal or weather-dependent. Arlington Reservoir offers a variety of experiences depending on the season - from spring flowers to autumn foliage colors.
The hidden gems of East Sussex
East Sussex hides many lesser-known but equally fascinating places to explore while in the region. One such hidden treasure is Old Roar Gill, a picturesque woodland ravine that offers a peaceful and charming place for nature walks.
Old Roar Gill, with a rating of 4.2/5, is a small nature reserve located in Hastings. The place is famous for its small waterfalls and lush vegetation, creating a magical, almost fairytale-like atmosphere. The main attractions of Old Roar Gill are:
- Picturesque forest paths - ideal for quiet walks and communing with nature.
- Small waterfalls - charming water cascades add to the charm of the place.
- Rich flora and fauna - perfect place for nature and photography lovers.
- Climbing for children - the natural terrain provides opportunities for safe climbing for the youngest.
Visitors praise Old Roar Gill for its natural beauty and tranquility. One reviewer writes: 'A fantastic muddy walk through a steep wooded valley, great fun with family and dog. Hidden away, park at the end of Vale Road or on Ghyllside Avenue.
It's worth noting, however, that Old Roar Gill can be difficult to find for those unfamiliar with the area. The lack of official parking and signage can pose some challenges. As one visitor notes: 'Finding the place was a bit difficult because there is no parking. I parked on Ghyllside Ave.'
When comparing Old Roar Gill to the previously discussed attractions, one can see that it offers a very different experience. Unlike the sprawling High Weald National Landscape or Seven Sisters Country Park, Old Roar Gill is an intimate corner of nature. Here you won't find elaborate tourist infrastructure like at Knockhatch Adventure Park, or amenities like at Arlington Reservoir. This is a place for those who appreciate exploring lesser-known wild corners of nature.
Old Roar Gill is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet, away from the tourist crowds. It's a great place for short, relaxing walks, ideal for families with children who enjoy exploring nature. Unlike other more popular attractions, Old Roar Gill offers a more authentic, non-commercial experience of getting in touch with nature.
Note that due to its natural nature, Old Roar Gill can be more difficult to access during rainy periods - the paths can be muddy and slippery. The best time to visit is late spring and summer, when the vegetation is at its most lush and the waterfalls are most picturesque. Unlike larger attractions, Old Roar Gill does not charge admission, making it an attractive option for travelers on a budget.
All in all, East Sussex offers an incredible variety of outdoor attractions, from sprawling country parks to exciting amusement parks to hidden woodland corners. Each of these places has its own unique character and offers different experiences, so there is something for everyone. Whether you're looking for active recreation, peaceful strolls or exciting adventures, East Sussex is sure not to disappoint. When planning your visit, consider a combination of different attractions to fully appreciate the richness and diversity of this beautiful county.
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