At the heart of West Sussex, Chichester stands out for its elegant Georgian streets, cultural vitality centred around the Festival Theatre, and proximity to both Chichester Harbour and the Goodwood Estate — home to the world-famous Festival of Speed and Goodwood. The city’s proximity to West Wittering Beach, one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the South, and its excellent schools make it a perennial draw for families and second-home owners alike. Nearby Arundel, crowned by its medieval castle and rising above the River Arun, exudes timeless English charm. Its cobbled streets, antique shops, and riverside walks create an atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustle of modern life, yet within easy reach of London and Gatwick.
The surrounding villages of Pulborough, Petworth, and Midhurst encapsulate quintessential Sussex living. Petworth is famed for its grand parkland — landscaped by Capability Brown — and its lively arts scene, anchored by the annual Petworth Festival and a wealth of antique dealers. Midhurst, with its market square, period townhouses, and proximity to Cowdray Park, remains one of the most elegant small towns in the South Downs. Polo at Cowdray has given the area an international reputation, and its beautiful surrounding villages such as Easebourne and Lodsworth are highly sought after. Meanwhile, Pulborough and neighbouring Amberley and Fittleworth provide a slower pace of life, with beautiful walks along the River Arun and striking views over the Downs.
Further north, Horsham, Crawley, Haywards Heath, and East Grinstead form a corridor of thriving market towns offering excellent amenities, strong commuter connections, and access to good schools. Horsham combines handsome period streets with a lively town centre and nearby villages like Slinfold and Barns Green, while Crawley, though more modern, benefits from exceptional transport links and proximity to Gatwick Airport. Haywards Heath and East Grinstead are prized by London commuters — trains reach the capital in under an hour — and are surrounded by some of the most attractive villages in Mid Sussex, including Cuckfield, Lindfield, and Balcombe, known for their traditional pubs, local schools, and close-knit communities.
To the east, Lewes and Brighton capture two contrasting but equally desirable faces of Sussex life. Lewes, with its independent spirit, artisan shops, and fine period architecture, offers a slower rhythm without sacrificing sophistication. Its castle, markets, and proximity to Glyndebourne Opera House add to its cultural appeal. By contrast, Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its Regency squares, artistic energy, and café culture. It appeals to professionals, creatives, and families drawn to its excellent schools, independent shops, and proximity to the sea. Between them lie the Downland villages of Falmer, Ditchling, and Plumpton, each combining rural beauty with easy access to both the city and countryside.
North of Lewes, Mayfield and Wadhurst exemplify the best of East Sussex’s rural elegance. Mayfield, perched on a ridge with sweeping countryside views, is admired for its picture-perfect high street, traditional pubs, and well-regarded schools. Wadhurst, recently voted one of the UK’s best places to live, offers a lively village atmosphere, period housing, and a direct rail line to London — an irresistible combination for families and weekenders. The surrounding countryside, dotted with oast houses and farmsteads, provides some of the most idyllic scenery in the South East.
Across Sussex, the architecture reflects the county’s long and layered history: flint cottages, Georgian townhouses, Edwardian villas, converted barns, and country estates sit comfortably alongside discreet contemporary homes that make the most of the views. The South Downs National Park provides a constant backdrop — a haven for walking, riding, cycling, and wildlife — while the coast offers sailing, beaches, and easy access to continental Europe via Newhaven and Portsmouth. Excellent schools, both state and independent, and an array of thriving local food and arts scenes add further depth to the county’s appeal.
