West Sussex Accommodation Guide
The wider county of Sussex gets its name from the old English “Sūþsēaxe” which is the literal translation of “South Saxons”. The name refers to the lands invaded and settled by the Saxon people of what is modern day Northern Germany. Sussex is one of Southern England’s most historic county’s and was once an independent medieval kingdom.
Interestingly, the county of Sussex has been divided into two ceremonial counties (East Sussex and West Sussex) since the 12th century. West Sussex adjoins East Sussex (to the East) and has a land border with Hampshire to the West and Surrey to the North.
To the West of the county, you will find Chichester and its historic harbour, still popular with sailors, watersports enthusiasts and fishermen. The pretty village of Bosham is located nearby as is West Wittering, one of the region’s most spectacular sandy beaches.
West Sussex has a rich tradition in making its own food and drink. The county is well known for its real ales and local cake and biscuits recipes such as Sussex Plum Heavies! In recent years much of the available arable land in Sussex has been turned over to grape production. English sparkling wines are beginning to rival French Champagne counterparts!
Key Facts Of West Sussex
- County Town: Chichester
- Land Area: 1,991 km2 (769 square miles)
- Population: 863,980 (2019)
- Average Temperature: (Summer 22 °C)
- Days Of Rain: Dry for 162 days a year
Best Attractions In West Sussex
Arundel Castle: The home of the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors for nearly 1000 years, Arundel Castle is one of the most impressive castles in the whole of the UK. Although extensively remodelled since, the original castle dates back to 1067 and is nearly 1,000 years old. The castle was badly damaged during the English Civil War but carefully restored in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Goodwood Festival of Speed: For motorsport enthusiasts the world over, the Goodwood Festival of Speed is one of the must attend events on the annual motorsport calendar. Held in the grounds of Goodwood House, the event is scheduled to fit in with the Formula One season, enabling fans to see historic F1 machines as well as other famous cars and motorbikes. Crowds in excess of 100,000 attend on each day of the event.
Fishbourne Roman Palace: Located near Chichester, Fishbourne Roman Palace is the the largest residential Roman building discovered in Britain. The palace dates from around thirty years after the Roman conquest of Britain. There are many other roman ruins located across Sussex and Hampshire but this is by far the best preserved.
Shipley Mill: Located near Horsham, Shipley Mill is the largest windmill in Sussex and one of the best preserved in the whole country. The famous writer Hilaire Belloc lived there from 1906 until 1953. Shipley Mill was recently used by the BBC to film 22 episodes of Jonathan Creek.
Best Accommodation In West Sussex
Swan Cottage (Arundel): Swan Cottage is beautiful red brick cottage that is nestled in the centre of Arundel, arguably one of West Sussex’s finest attractions. This lovely cottage that sleeps 4 people across 2 bedrooms is close to Arundel Castle, Arundel Wetland Centre, the River Arun and Swanbourne Lodge Tearoom.
The Dog & Trout (North End near Findon): Situation near to the lovely West Sussex village of Findon and very close to the seaside town of Worthing. The Dog and Trout is a recently renovated barn conversion that sleeps 4 people across 2 bedrooms and it is perfectly located for exploring both the South Downs National Park and the seaside town of Brighton.
Thistledown Cottage (Bosham): Bosham is arguably one of the most photogenic locations on the South Coast. With its unique history which includes a Roman settlement and links with both King Canute and King Harold and the Bayeux Tapestry, this lovely cottage is much in demand. Sleeping 4 people across 2 bedrooms this pretty wooden clad cottage is ideally located within the South Downs.
Ocean View (Hayling Island): Located on the border of West Sussex and Hampshire, the views from the balcony of this 3 bedroom beach house are hard to beat. Sleeping 7 people in comfort, this incredible holiday home backs on to Hayling Island beach. Set over three floors, the house is close to nearby Emsworth, Bosham and Chichester.
The Granary (Chidham): Located in the beautiful village of Chidham, The Granary is a fully restored heritage building that offers accommodation for two people in a wonderful setting. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, The Granary is a great place to explore this stunning area of West Sussex and nearby Cobnor Point.
Alexander House Hotel & Utopia Spa: This boutique five star hotel is set in 120 acres of parkland. With its award winning Utopia Spa this is a good choice for people looking to explore both central London and the southern counties. The hotel is set in a quiet location just six miles from London Gatwick airport.
The Timber Barn: Here at Stay In Britain, we simply love converted barn accommodation! Located in Hardham (West Sussex) and 17 miles from Chichester, the Timber Barn affords stunning river views from its rear patio. This holiday home is equipped with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and well stocked kitchen.
Little Fisher Farm – Farm-View Retreat: Little Fisher Farm is a farm retreat in the centre of West Sussex near Chichester. Providing accommodation for four people (one bedroom and one sofa bed), Farm-View Retreat benefits from a stunning private garden. This little farmhouse is located just five miles from Goodwood Motor Circuit.
Chichester Harbour Hotel and Spa: A particular favourite of the team at Stay In Britain! Just a few minutes’ walk from central Chichester and the cathedral, this lovingly restored 18th-century building features an award winning brasserie and free guest parking. Enjoy char-grilled meat and fish all made using high quality locally sourced produce.
Stay In Britain is the ultimate guide to places to stay and things to do in Great Britain. Whether you are looking for a luxury self-catering cottage, a cheap B&B for a weekend stay, a short break in a caravan park or a business-friendly hotel in the West Sussex area, we have everything you need. Enjoy your stay in Britain!
