Things to do in East Sussex – Discover Your Next Adventure
Make the most of the British summertime by getting out and exploring the great outdoors!
East Sussex is spoiled for choice when it comes to scenic walks – from tackling the Seven Sisters and crossing the South Downs to discovering seaside towns along the Coastal Culture Trail.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful countryside walk, a dramatic coastal adventure, or a day discovering art and culture by the sea, East Sussex offers the perfect backdrop for your next escape.
Discover the Coastal Culture Trail
One of the best ways to explore the area is by following the Coastal Culture Trail, a unique route that links three seaside towns: Eastbourne, Bexhill and Hastings.
Stretching across 20+ miles of coastline from start to finish, the trail takes you on a journey through some of East Sussex’s most beautiful landscapes. Start your adventure in either Hastings or Eastbourne, passing through Bexhill in between – home to the De La Warr Pavilion.
Take your time in each town, exploring the sights, quirky shops and art galleries such as Hastings Contemporary along the way. The Coastal Culture Trail is a great way to discover East Sussex in just a day or two which is perfect for last-minute summer trips and weekends away.
Some views and journeys stay with you long after the walking boots have come off. The route is full of inspiration, from sweeping sea views and historic architecture to the creative spirit that runs through our coastal towns.
As you pass through Bexhill, stop by the De La Warr Pavilion and take in our seafront setting. Sitting right on the Coastal Culture Trail, the Pavilion is the perfect place to pause, explore exhibitions, enjoy the view and discover the connection between art, landscape and life by the sea.
Walk and Explore
The Sussex coastline and countryside have inspired generations of artists, including Eric Ravilious, who captured the beauty of local landscapes in his work.
Whether you are taking inspiration from Ravilious and painting landscapes along the way, capturing photographs of your journey, or keeping a written record of your adventures, there’s always something new to discover.
For those heading further afield, the Seven Sisters offers one of the most iconic walks in the region, with dramatic chalk cliffs and unforgettable views across the English Channel. Meanwhile, the South Downs provides miles of peaceful countryside paths, rolling hills and open skies, great for a slower-paced adventure surrounded by nature.
Prepare for Your Next Adventure at the DLWP Shop
Before you set off, stop by the DLWP Shop, where you’ll find a range of items inspired by the beauty of Sussex and beyond, plus everything you need for your next adventure.
For our roaming artists, you can find an even wider selection of supplies when you visit our shop at the Pavilion. Browse pencils for sketching and colouring, moleskin sketch books and journals, Micron fine liner pens, watercolours and more so you can capture the places you visit.
We also have plenty of outdoorsy essentials for your next walk, including practical tote bags, reusable water bottles, walking books and guides to help you explore the local area. Plus, discover a wider selection of books, ceramics and greetings cards by local makers, along with plenty of unique and quirky finds.
Bring the beauty of the countryside and coast into your home with books inspired by a love for Sussex, or pick up a thoughtful souvenir to remember your journey.
While we do our best to showcase our products online, our full collection is best experienced in person.
And if you join as a DLWP Member at the Box Office, you’ll enjoy 10% off your shop purchases year-round, alongside a range of exclusive benefits, all while supporting the De La Warr Pavilion.
Our Shop is open daily, 10am–5pm.
Posted by Joel Cheshire on Thursday 18 June 2026