Heritage and gardens

Home to historic houses, castles and gardens, West Sussex is steeped in history and heritage. From world famous castles like Arundel to magnificent gardens and ruined Tudor Mansions like Cowdray to the remains of a Roman home at Bignor Roman Villa. So whether you’re looking for a family day out or a chance to discover something new, West Sussex is the place to be.

Heritage and gardens in West Sussex
The pond at West Dean Gardens

West Dean Gardens

Nestled at the foot of the South Downs, West Dean Gardens i...
Man taking selfie at Ouse Valley Viaduct

Ouse Valley Viaduct

Located between Haywards Heath and Balcombe, Ouse Valley...
Woodland waterfall at Woolbedding Gardens

Woolbeding Gardens

Nestled in a quiet corner of West Sussex lies a true horticu...
Wakehurst pond and flowers

Wakehurst

Part of London’s Kew Gardens, Wakehurst near Balcombe is ...
Chichester flowers and high street, West Sussex

Chichester

Blending old and new, Chichester offers an enticing mix of d...
Leonardslee Lake and Gardens in autumn

Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens

Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens is described as ‘The Finest ...
Bignor Roman Villa mosaic floor

Bignor Roman Villa

Bignor Roman Villa features the most complete and intricate ...
Hotham Park path through the trees

Hotham Park

Established by the founder of Bognor, Sir Richard Hotham, Ho...
High Beeches Garden

High Beeches

High Beeches Woodland and Water Garden is 27 acres of natur...
Group walking through Chichester City Walls

Chichester City Walls

Follow the trail of the most intact Roman Defences in Southe...
South front of the house from the meadow with white flowers at Uppark House and Garden, West Sussex.

Uppark House and Garden

Uniquely placed in a stunning hilltop location on the South ...
Queen Elizabeth Country Park

Queen Elizabeth Country Park

Queen Elizabeth Country Park is located just outside West Su...
Inside a World War II cockpit at Wings Aviation Museum

Wings Aviation Museum

Haywards Heath's very own Wings Aviation Museum is a fascina...
Parham House and Gardens scenic countryside

Parham House and Gardens

Hidden just off the A283 just outside the pretty village of ...
Standen House in the sun

Standen House and Gardens

Discover the arts and crafts movement at the Standen family ...
Agapanthus at Borde Hill gardens

Borde Hill Garden

Borde Hill is a beautiful Grade II* English Heritage listed ...

History and heritage

From rare art to aristocratic splendour, some of our historic places have it all. Take a stroll in the distinguished grounds of Petworth House and Park before exploring the building itself which contains works by Turner and Blake. It’s a great choice for art connoisseurs of all ages.

If you’re looking for something for all the family, the Weald and Downland Living Museum is another good option. It hosts historic craft activities for children, woodland walks and gives an insight into 1,000 years of English rural life. There’s such a range of options, big and small, indoor and outdoor, that you can enjoy a historic visit to West Sussex all year round.

Arundel Castle
Children running in front of Petworth House

Local guides

Get inspiration for your next trip with the help of our local guides. Discover top attractions, fun things to do and exciting new experiences. There is something for everyone in West Sussex.