Holiday rentals and lettings in West Sussex

• Choice of accommodation: from cosy coastal cottages and converted barns to countryside homes and glamping sites, West Sussex offers a wide range of self-catering options to suit couples, families and larger groups.
• Where to stay: popular bases include the cathedral city of Chichester, historic Arundel, the beaches around The Witterings, and the villages of the South Downs National Park.
• What guests love: the mix of golden sandy beaches, rolling downland walks, sailing harbours and pretty market towns, all within easy reach of London and the south coast.
• Best time to visit: summer is ideal for beaches and sailing, while spring and autumn bring quieter walking trails and vibrant countryside colour.
• Things to do: explore Arundel Castle, walk the South Downs Way, visit Chichester Cathedral, relax on West Wittering beach and tour the grand estate of Petworth House.

West Sussex offers an appealing spread of self-catering accommodation, whether you are after a seaside base or a rural hideaway. Traditional cottages sit alongside spacious holiday homes, converted barns and modern apartments, so you can find the right fit for a romantic break, a family holiday or a gathering of friends.

• Wi-Fi throughout for staying connected and planning days out.
• Private gardens or terraces, perfect for relaxing after a day on the coast.
• Fully equipped kitchens for self-catering at your own pace.
• Barbecue facilities to make the most of warm summer evenings.
• Parking on site, handy for exploring the wider county by car.

For something a little different, consider glamping in the countryside or cosy log cabins tucked away near the South Downs.

What are the best areas to stay in West Sussex?

The best area depends on your plans: Chichester and the coast suit culture and sailing, Arundel is ideal for history lovers, and the South Downs are unbeatable for walkers. Families often head to The Witterings (both East Wittering and West Wittering), while those seeking value and countryside enjoy the villages around Horsham, where a rural camping trip is easy to arrange.

What do our guests say?

Guests consistently praise West Sussex for its variety and easy pace. Many highlight the warm welcome from hosts, the cleanliness and comfort of their properties, and how well placed they were for both the coast and the countryside. Families appreciate the space and safe gardens for children, while couples enjoy the quiet, characterful cottages within walking distance of village pubs. Time and again, visitors mention how much they packed into a short stay, from beach days to castle visits, and how quickly they felt at home.

West Sussex blends coast and countryside in a compact, welcoming corner of southern England. Its shoreline stretches from the sailing waters of Chichester Harbour to the wide sands of West Wittering, while inland the South Downs National Park rises in green waves above historic towns such as Arundel, Petworth and Midhurst. Add the cathedral city of Chichester, grand country estates and a string of pretty Wealden villages, and you have a region that rewards slow exploration.

✈️What is the best way to get to West Sussex?

West Sussex is easy to reach by road and rail, sitting between Portsmouth and Brighton on the south coast and well connected to London.

• By car: the A27 runs east to west through the county, linking Chichester and Arundel and connecting to Portsmouth and Brighton, while the A24 heads north towards Horsham and London.
• By train: direct services run from London Victoria to Chichester and Arundel, with regular connections along the coast and up to Horsham and Gatwick.

🥗Where to eat in West Sussex?

According to Google Maps reviews, The Parsons Table in Arundel is one of the best rated restaurants in West Sussex. Below is a table showing top highly-rated spots hand-picked by our travel experts.

⭐Our guests' recommendation: Our guest travellers rate The Black Rabbit, a riverside pub beside the River Arun with views of Arundel Castle: a lovely spot for a relaxed lunch and a drink on the water's edge after exploring the town.

☀️When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit depends on what you want from your stay. Summer (June to August) is peak season for beaches and sailing, spring and autumn are ideal for walking, and winter offers quiet, cosy escapes.

Summer (June–August)

• Best for: beach days at West Wittering, sailing in Chichester Harbour and outdoor events.
• Weather: warm and generally dry, with the longest daylight hours of the year.
• Atmosphere: lively and busy, with bustling seafronts, festivals and packed village pubs.

Spring & Autumn (April–May, September–October)

• Best for: walking the South Downs, exploring gardens and quieter sightseeing.
• Weather: mild and changeable, with fresh spring blooms or golden autumn colour.
• Atmosphere: relaxed and peaceful, with fewer crowds and easier parking.

Winter (November–March)

• Best for: cosy cottage retreats, coastal walks and festive markets.
• Weather: cool and often crisp, with the occasional bright, clear day.
• Atmosphere: quiet and restful, perfect for a slow, unwinding break.

⭐Our Hosts' recommendation: Book early for summer stays, as coastal properties fill up fast in the school holidays. Bring layers and sturdy footwear for the Downs whatever the season, and set aside an evening to enjoy a local pub within walking distance of your base. A short drive inland often rewards you with quieter beaches and better value than the busiest resorts.

1. Explore Arundel Castle
2. Walk the South Downs
3. Discover Chichester
4. Relax at West Wittering beach
5. Visit Petworth House & Park

1. Explore Arundel Castle

   Rising above the River Arun, Arundel Castle has been the seat of the Dukes of Norfolk for more than 850 years. Wander its restored keep, grand staterooms and richly planted gardens, including the celebrated tulip displays each spring. The battlements offer sweeping views over the town and surrounding countryside, while events and jousting tournaments bring its long history to life. It is one of the most impressive castles in the south of England and a highlight of any West Sussex trip.

2. Walk the South Downs

   The South Downs National Park is a walker's paradise, with chalk ridges, hidden valleys and villages linked by ancient paths. Follow part of the long-distance South Downs Way for panoramic views stretching to the sea, or choose a gentle circular route from a village pub. In spring and autumn the light and colour are especially rewarding. Cyclists and horse riders share the trails too, making the Downs a wonderful outdoor escape for all abilities and ages.

3. Discover Chichester

   The elegant city of Chichester is built around its beautiful medieval cathedral, whose spire has guided sailors for centuries. Explore the Georgian streets, independent shops and the acclaimed Festival Theatre. Just outside the city, Fishbourne Roman Palace preserves the largest collection of in-situ Roman mosaics in Britain, offering a fascinating glimpse of life almost two thousand years ago. Together they make Chichester a rich destination for lovers of history, culture and the arts.

4. Relax at West Wittering beach

   West Wittering is famous for its wide stretch of clean golden sand, dunes and shallow, safe waters, making it a favourite with families. Backed by the Chichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it is also a magnet for windsurfers and kitesurfers who make the most of the breeze. On a clear day you can see across to the Isle of Wight. Arrive early in summer, as this popular blue-flag beach fills quickly.

5. Visit Petworth House & Park

   Petworth House is a magnificent 17th-century mansion set within a vast deer park landscaped by Capability Brown. Inside, the National Trust cares for an outstanding art collection featuring works by Turner, who painted here, alongside Van Dyck and Reynolds. Outside, hundreds of acres of rolling parkland invite long walks among ancient trees and grazing deer. The nearby town of Petworth is a treasure trove of antiques shops, rounding off a rewarding day in the West Sussex countryside.