Perfect 7-Day South Downs National Park Itinerary: Sun-Kissed Adventures

Planning a trip to South Downs National Park? This 7-day summer itinerary gives you exact times, real locations, and current prices—everything you need for a genuine England experience during the sunniest, most vibrant season.

England's newest national park, the South Downs stretches across Sussex and Hampshire, offering rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and dramatic white cliffs. In summer, the landscape bursts with wildflowers, the days are long and warm, and the coastal paths are alive with visitors enjoying the best of the British seaside.

Why Visit in Summer?

Summer in the South Downs (June to August) offers the warmest weather, longest days, and a festive atmosphere. Temperatures range from 15-25°C, perfect for outdoor activities, beach visits, and al fresco dining.

Seasonal Highlights:

Long summer evenings with sunset after 9 PM
Wildflowers carpeting the chalk downland
Perfect beach weather along the coast
Outdoor festivals and events
Paragliding and outdoor sports
Fresh local produce and farmers' markets
Alfresco dining at pubs and restaurants
Swimming in the sea (for the brave!)

Best Summer Activities:

Coastal cliff walks in warm sunshine
Beach days at Cuckmere Haven and Birling Gap
Paragliding from Devil's Dyke
Exploring Brighton and its vibrant culture
Visiting vineyards during harvest season
Cycling the South Downs Way
Picnicking on the downs with panoramic views

Day 1: Seven Sisters & Cuckmere Haven

Morning: Seven Sisters Cliffs

Location: Seven Sisters Country Park, Exceat (50.7457°N, 0.1542°W)

Begin your summer adventure at the iconic Seven Sisters, a series of dramatic white chalk cliffs that are one of England's most photographed coastal features. In summer, the cliffs glow in the bright sunshine, and the turquoise sea below creates a stunning contrast.

9:00 AM - Arrive at Seven Sisters Country Park

Parking: Seven Sisters Country Park car park (Exceat) — £5 all day
Summer Tip: Arrive early on weekends—car park fills by 10:30 AM
Alternative: Park at Seaford and walk (free street parking)

9:30 AM - Walk to the Cliffs

Route: Cuckmere River path to the coast
Distance: 6 km round trip to the first sister
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (some steep sections)

The walk follows the Cuckmere River through its famous meanders to the coast. In summer, the river banks are lined with wildflowers, dragonflies dart over the water, and the meadows are full of butterflies.

Photography Tips:

Morning light illuminates the cliffs beautifully
The classic view is from Seaford Head (walk west from the river)
Bring a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the sea
Wide-angle lens essential for the panoramic views

11:00 AM - Explore the Clifftops

Walk along the cliff path for spectacular views. The Seven Sisters are actually eight hills (the name refers to the original seven sisters of legend). Each "sister" is a chalk headland separated by a valley.

Safety Note: Stay well back from the cliff edge—erosion is constant, and summer heat can make the chalk crumbly.

Afternoon: Cuckmere Haven Beach & Alfriston

12:30 PM - Picnic Lunch at Cuckmere Haven

Bring a picnic to enjoy on the beach at Cuckmere Haven, where the river meets the sea. In summer, this is a popular spot for families, but there's plenty of space to spread out.

Picnic Supplies from: The Seven Sisters Deli, Seaford

Address: 9 Broad Street, Seaford BN25 1LS
Phone: 01323 890 234
Must Try: Sussex cheese selection (£8.50), homemade quiche (£6.95)

2:00 PM - Drive to Alfriston

Distance: 15 minutes
Parking: Alfriston village car park — £3 for 4 hours

2:30 PM - Explore Alfriston Village

Alfriston is one of the most picturesque villages in Sussex, with a medieval church, timber-framed houses, and independent shops. In summer, the village is bustling with visitors, and the gardens are in full bloom.

Highlights:

St. Andrew's Church: Known as the "Cathedral of the Downs"
The Clergy House: First property acquired by the National Trust (1896)
Independent shops: Books, crafts, and local produce
The Market Square: Historic coaching inn with outdoor seating

4:00 PM - Tea at The Singing Kettle

Location: 3 North Street, Alfriston BN26 5UJ
Phone: 01323 870 217
Price Range: ££
Must Try: Sussex cream tea (£8.95), homemade lemonade (£3.50)

This charming tea room is the perfect place to cool off on a warm summer afternoon.

Evening: Dinner & Rest

5:30 PM - Check into Accommodation

Recommended: The Star Alfriston

Price: £180-280/night (summer rates)
Address: Alfriston BN26 5TA
Phone: 01323 870 495

7:00 PM - Dinner at The Star Alfriston

Location: Alfriston BN26 5TA
Phone: 01323 870 495
Price Range: £££
Must Try: Sussex lamb (£28), summer vegetable tasting menu (£42)

This historic inn offers excellent food with a focus on local Sussex produce. In summer, enjoy dining in the garden.

Day 2: Beachy Head & Eastbourne

Morning: Beachy Head & Birling Gap

Location: Beachy Head (50.7374°N, 0.2474°W)

Today you'll explore the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain, Beachy Head, rising 162 meters above the English Channel. In summer, the gorse is in bloom with yellow flowers, and the views stretch for miles on clear days.

9:00 AM - Drive to Birling Gap

Distance: 30 minutes from Alfriston
Parking: Birling Gap National Trust car park — £5 for 4 hours (NT members free)
Summer Tip: Bring sun cream—there's no shade on the cliffs

9:30 AM - Beachy Head Walk

Route: Birling Gap to Beachy Head and back
Distance: 8 km round trip
Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (undulating, some steep sections)

This classic coastal walk takes you along the cliff tops with spectacular views. In summer, the wildflowers are spectacular, and you might spot dolphins offshore.

Highlights:

Birling Gap: The only place you can get down to the beach—great for swimming
The Seven Sisters: View from the west
Beachy Head Lighthouse: Iconic red-and-white stripes
Beachy Head Summit: Highest point, with panoramic views

11:00 AM - Beachy Head Summit

The summit offers 360° views. On a clear summer day, you can see:

The Isle of Wight to the west
Dungeness to the east
The French coast (on exceptional days)
The rolling South Downs inland

Safety Note: Beachy Head is a notorious suicide spot. If you see someone in distress, contact the Coastguard (999).

Afternoon: Eastbourne

12:30 PM - Lunch at The Beachy Head

Location: Beachy Head, Eastbourne BN20 7YA
Phone: 01323 423 074
Price Range: ££
Must Try: Beachy Head burger (£16.95), local ale, summer salad (£12.50)

This pub near the cliff top offers excellent food and views. In summer, the garden is the perfect spot for lunch.

2:00 PM - Drive to Eastbourne

Distance: 15 minutes

2:30 PM - Explore Eastbourne

Eastbourne is a classic English seaside town with a Victorian promenade and elegant architecture. In summer, it's in full swing, with deck chairs, ice cream, and traditional seaside fun.

Things to Do:

The Pier: Victorian pier with amusements and views
The Bandstand: Art deco architecture with summer concerts
The Towner Gallery: Contemporary art (free entry)
The Seafront Gardens: Beautiful summer bedding displays

4:00 PM - Ice Cream at The Grand Hotel

Location: King Edward's Parade, Eastbourne BN21 4EQ
Phone: 01323 412 918
Price Range: £££
Must Try: Afternoon tea (£32), homemade ice cream (£4.50)

This iconic Victorian hotel offers traditional refreshments in elegant surroundings.

Evening: Return & Dinner

5:30 PM - Return to Alfriston

7:30 PM - Dinner at The George Inn

Location: High Street, Alfriston BN26 5TA
Phone: 01323 870 471
Price Range: ££
Must Try: Sussex beef (£24), local cheese board (£12), summer pudding (£6.50)

This historic coaching inn offers excellent pub food in a traditional setting. In summer, enjoy the beer garden.

Day 3: Devil's Dyke & Brighton

Morning: Devil's Dyke

Location: Devil's Dyke (50.8856°N, -0.2058°W)

Today you'll explore Devil's Dyke, a dramatic V-shaped valley on the South Downs, legendary as the home of the devil. In summer, this is a hub for outdoor activities, especially paragliding.

9:00 AM - Drive to Devil's Dyke

Distance: 45 minutes from Alfriston
Parking: National Trust Devil's Dyke car park — £4 for 2 hours, £8 all day (NT members free)
Summer Tip: Very busy on sunny weekends—arrive by 9 AM

9:30 AM - Devil's Dyke Walk

Route: Circular walk around the dyke
Distance: 5 km
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (some steep sections)

The walk takes you around the rim of the valley with spectacular views over the Sussex Weald. In summer, the downland is carpeted with wildflowers—orchids, thyme, and scabious.

Highlights:

The Devil's Punch Bowl: The deepest part of the valley
Views north: Across the Weald to the North Downs
Views south: To the sea and Brighton
Wildflowers: Summer blooms on the chalk grassland

Paragliding: If you're adventurous, book a tandem paragliding flight:

Brighton Paragliding: 01273 434 002
Price: £150 for a tandem flight
Duration: 20-30 minutes

History: According to legend, the devil dug the dyke to flood the Sussex churches. He was thwarted when an old lady lit a candle, making him think dawn had come.

Afternoon: Brighton

12:00 PM - Drive to Brighton

Distance: 20 minutes from Devil's Dyke
Parking: NCP car parks or park and ride (recommended in summer)

12:30 PM - Lunch at Food For Friends

Location: 17-18 Prince Albert Street, Brighton BN1 1HF
Phone: 01273 202 310
Price Range: ££
Must Try: Vegetarian tasting menu (£28), summer mezze platter (£18)

This excellent vegetarian restaurant offers creative, delicious food in the heart of the Lanes.

2:00 PM - Explore The Lanes

The Lanes are Brighton's historic quarter, with narrow alleyways, independent shops, and cafes. In summer, the atmosphere is vibrant, with buskers and outdoor seating.

Highlights:

Independent shops: Vintage, jewelry, crafts
The Royal Pavilion: Exotic palace of George IV
Brighton Museum: Free entry
North Laine: Bohemian shopping area

4:00 PM - The Royal Pavilion

Location: Pavilion Gardens, Brighton BN1 1EE
Entry: £15 adult, £9 child
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:15 PM
Phone: 0300 029 0900

This extraordinary palace was built by George IV as a seaside retreat. The architecture is Indo-Saracenic, and the interiors are spectacular.

Evening: Brighton Nightlife

6:00 PM - Dinner at Riddle & Finns

Location: 12B Meeting House Lane, Brighton BN1 1HB
Phone: 01273 323 557
Price Range: £££
Must Try: Oysters (£3.50 each), seafood platter (£48), chilled white wine

This excellent seafood restaurant is in the heart of the Lanes. In summer, the atmosphere is buzzing.

8:00 PM - Evening in Brighton

Enjoy Brighton's famous nightlife, or take a walk along the seafront to see the illuminated pier. Summer evenings in Brighton are magical, with street performers and outdoor bars.

9:30 PM - Return to Alfriston

Drive back to your accommodation (45 minutes).

Day 4: Kingley Vale & Chichester

Morning: Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve

Location: Kingley Vale (50.8967°N, -0.8167°W)

Today you'll visit one of the most important natural sites in England, Kingley Vale, home to ancient yew trees that are over 2,000 years old. In summer, the reserve is alive with butterflies, including the rare chalkhill blue.

9:00 AM - Drive to Kingley Vale

Distance: 1 hour from Alfriston
Parking: Kingley Vale car park (limited spaces) — free
Alternative: Park in West Stoke village
Summer Tip: Bring insect repellent—can be buggy in summer

10:00 AM - Kingley Vale Walk

Route: Circular walk through the nature reserve
Distance: 6 km
Time: 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (steep climb to the top)

The walk takes you through ancient woodland to the top of the downs, with spectacular views and the famous yew forest.

Highlights:

Ancient Yews: Some of the oldest trees in Britain
The Devil's Humps: Bronze Age burial mounds
Views: Across Chichester Harbour to the Isle of Wight
Butterflies: Chalkhill blues, meadow browns, gatekeepers

The Yew Forest: The yew trees at Kingley Vale are among the oldest living things in Britain. Some are estimated to be 2,000 years old. In summer, they provide welcome shade.

Afternoon: Chichester

1:00 PM - Drive to Chichester

Distance: 20 minutes from Kingley Vale
Parking: Chichester car parks — £5 for 4 hours

1:30 PM - Lunch at The Park Tavern

Location: 14 St. Pancras, Chichester PO19 7LT
Phone: 01243 788 224
Price Range: ££
Must Try: Sussex beef (£19), local ale, summer garden

This excellent pub offers great food and a wide selection of local ales. In summer, the garden is delightful.

3:00 PM - Explore Chichester

Chichester is a charming cathedral city with Roman walls and a rich history. In summer, the streets are bustling with visitors.

Highlights:

Chichester Cathedral: Free entry, 900 years of history
The Roman Walls: Walk the complete circuit
The Market Cross: 16th-century landmark
Pallant House Gallery: Modern art (£12 entry)

4:30 PM - Chichester Cathedral

Location: West Street, Chichester PO19 1RP
Entry: Free (donations welcome)
Opening Hours: 7:15 AM - 6:00 PM
Phone: 01243 782 595

The cathedral is beautiful in summer light, with the stained glass glowing. Look for the Arundel Tomb, made famous by Philip Larkin's poem.

Evening: Return & Dinner

5:30 PM - Return to Alfriston

7:30 PM - Dinner at The Singing Kettle

Location: 3 North Street, Alfriston BN26 5UJ
Phone: 01323 870 217
Price Range: ££
Must Try: Homemade quiche (£9.50), summer salad (£8.95), elderflower cordial (£3)

This cozy tea room offers excellent home cooking in a welcoming atmosphere.

Day 5: Petworth House & Gardens

Morning: Petworth House

Location: Petworth House, Petworth GU28 0AE (50.9864°N, -0.6089°W)

Today you'll visit one of England's finest stately homes, Petworth House, with its world-class art collection and Capability Brown landscape. In summer, the gardens are at their peak.

9:30 AM - Drive to Petworth

Distance: 1 hour from Alfriston
Parking: Free at Petworth House

10:00 AM - Petworth House

Entry: £18 house and garden, £12 garden only (NT members free)
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM (house), 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (garden)
Phone: 01798 342 207

Petworth is one of the National Trust's most important properties. The house contains an outstanding art collection, including works by Turner, Van Dyck, and Reynolds.

Highlights:

The Carved Room: Grinling Gibbons woodcarvings
The Art Collection: Turner's paintings of Petworth
The Servants' Quarters: Below stairs life
The Chapel: 13th-century origins

Afternoon: Petworth Park

12:30 PM - Lunch at The Audit Room Cafe

Location: Petworth House
Price Range: ££
Must Try: Sussex cream tea (£10.50), summer salad (£9.95), homemade cake (£4.50)

1:30 PM - Explore Petworth Park

The 700-acre deer park was landscaped by Capability Brown in the 18th century. In summer, it's at its most beautiful:

The Deer: Fallow deer roam freely—bring binoculars
The Lake: Perfect for picnics
The Ionic Rotunda: Viewpoint over the park
The Gardens: Summer flowers in bloom

Photography: The combination of deer, summer light, and the Palladian house makes this a photographer's paradise.

4:00 PM - Petworth Town

The town of Petworth is worth exploring, with antique shops, art galleries, and cafes. In summer, the town is busy with visitors.

Evening: Return & Dinner

5:00 PM - Return to Alfriston

7:30 PM - Dinner at The Star Alfriston

Location: Alfriston BN26 5TA
Phone: 01323 870 495
Price Range: £££
Must Try: Summer tasting menu (£48), garden vegetables, local trout

Enjoy another excellent meal at The Star, with seasonal summer ingredients from their garden.

Day 6: Lewes & The River Ouse

Morning: Lewes Town

Location: Lewes (50.8739°N, 0.0088°W)

Today you'll explore Lewes, the county town of East Sussex, with its rich history and independent spirit. In summer, the town is lively, with outdoor markets and festivals.

9:00 AM - Drive to Lewes

Distance: 30 minutes from Alfriston
Parking: Lewes car parks — £5 for 4 hours

9:30 AM - Lewes Castle

Location: 169 High Street, Lewes BN7 1YE
Entry: £10 adult, £5 child (combined ticket with museum)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (summer)
Phone: 01273 486 290

Lewes Castle is a Norman keep with spectacular views over the town and the South Downs. In summer, the views are crystal clear.

10:30 AM - Anne of Cleves House

Location: 52 Southover High Street, Lewes BN7 1JA
Entry: Included with castle ticket
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

This medieval house was part of Henry VIII's divorce settlement with Anne of Cleves. It contains local history exhibits and a beautiful garden.

Afternoon: Harvey's Brewery & River Ouse

12:00 PM - Lunch at The Lewes Arms

Location: 29 Mount Street, Lewes BN7 1XG
Phone: 01273 473 252
Price Range: ££
Must Try: Harvey's ale (£4.20), ploughman's lunch (£13), summer salad (£11)

This traditional pub is famous for its Harveys beer, brewed just down the road. In summer, the garden is the place to be.

1:30 PM - Harvey's Brewery Shop

Location: 6 Cliffe High Street, Lewes BN7 2AH
Phone: 01273 480 271

Buy Harvey's beer to take home—the perfect souvenir from your South Downs trip.

2:30 PM - River Ouse Walk

Route: Riverside walk along the River Ouse
Distance: 3 km
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy

The River Ouse flows through Lewes on its way to the sea. In summer, the riverbanks are lush with vegetation, and you might see kingfishers.

4:00 PM - Lewes Farmers' Market (1st Saturday of month)

If your visit coincides with the farmers' market, browse the stalls for local produce, cheeses, and baked goods.

Evening: Return & Dinner

5:00 PM - Return to Alfriston

7:30 PM - Dinner at The George Inn

Location: High Street, Alfriston BN26 5TA
Phone: 01323 870 471
Price Range: ££
Must Try: Sussex sausages (£17), summer vegetable risotto (£15), Eton mess (£6)

Day 7: South Downs Way & Departure

Morning: South Downs Way Walk

Location: Alfriston to Cuckmere Valley (50.8067°N, 0.1583°W)

On your final day, enjoy a scenic walk on the South Downs Way before departure.

9:00 AM - Breakfast at The Singing Kettle

Location: 3 North Street, Alfriston BN26 5UJ
Price: Full English (£10.95), summer fruit salad (£6.50)

10:00 AM - South Downs Way Walk

Route: Alfriston to the Cuckmere Valley and back
Distance: 6 km
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate

A beautiful walk through the Cuckmere Valley, with views of the downs and the river. In summer, the meadows are full of wildflowers and butterflies.

Summer Highlights:

Wildflowers: Orchids, clover, and vetches
Butterflies: Meadow browns, gatekeepers, and whites
Skylarks: Singing overhead
Views: Clear summer views of the coast

Afternoon: Final Explorations & Departure

12:30 PM - Lunch at The Star Alfriston

Location: Alfriston BN26 5TA
Phone: 01323 870 495
Price Range: £££
Must Try: Summer salad (£14), sandwich (£11), homemade lemonade

2:00 PM - Final Shopping in Alfriston

Browse the shops of Alfriston for last-minute gifts:

Much Ado About Books: Independent bookshop
The Singing Kettle: Local preserves and teas
Alfriston Pottery: Handmade ceramics

3:00 PM - Departure

Begin your journey home, taking with you memories of a sun-kissed summer in the South Downs.

Practical Information

Getting There

By Car:

From London: A23 to Brighton, then A27 along the coast (1.5 hours)
From Brighton: A27 east or west along the coast
From Portsmouth: A27 east (45 minutes)

By Train:

London to Brighton: 1 hour from Victoria
London to Lewes: 1 hour from Victoria
London to Eastbourne: 1.5 hours from Victoria
London to Chichester: 1.5 hours from Victoria

By Bus:

Coastliner 700: Brighton to Portsmouth along the coast
National Express: Long-distance services

Summer Weather

June:

Temperature: 15-22°C
Daylight: 16 hours
Conditions: Often warm and settled, occasional showers

July:

Temperature: 18-25°C
Daylight: 16 hours
Conditions: Warmest month, can be humid

August:

Temperature: 17-24°C
Daylight: 14 hours
Conditions: Warm, occasional thunderstorms

What to Pack for Summer

Essential Clothing:

Light waterproof jacket (summer showers)
Sun hat and sunglasses
Sun cream (SPF 30+)
Light layers
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals for the beach
Swimwear

Equipment:

Rucksack (25-30 liters)
Water bottle (stay hydrated)
Map and compass
Phone and portable charger
Camera
Picnic blanket
Insect repellent

Safety Information

Sun Safety:

Wear sun cream, even on cloudy days
Stay hydrated—carry water on walks
Seek shade during midday heat
Wear a hat to prevent sunstroke

Cliff Safety:

Stay well back from edges
Chalk cliffs are prone to erosion
Don't climb on cliff faces

Walking Safety:

Tell someone your route
Check weather forecasts
Carry emergency shelter
Emergency number: 999 or 112

Money & Costs

Typical Costs (per person):

Budget meal: £12-18
Mid-range meal: £20-32
Coffee: £2.80-4.00
Pint of beer: £4.50-6.00
Ice cream: £3-4.50
B&B: £100-180/night (summer)
Hotel: £150-300/night (summer)

Emergency Contacts

Emergency Services: 999 or 112
Coastguard: 999/112
National Trust: 01793 817 570

Where to Eat - Complete Guide

Alfriston

1. The Star Alfriston

Type: Restaurant with Rooms
Price Range: £££
Specialty: Sussex produce, tasting menus, summer garden
Address: Alfriston BN26 5TA
Phone: 01323 870 495
Must Try: Summer tasting menu (£48)

2. The George Inn

Type: Historic Pub
Price Range: ££
Specialty: Sussex beef, real ales, beer garden
Address: High Street, Alfriston BN26 5TA
Phone: 01323 870 471
Must Try: Sussex beef (£24)

3. The Singing Kettle

Type: Tea Room
Price Range: ££
Specialty: Cream teas, homemade cakes, light lunches
Address: 3 North Street, Alfriston BN26 5UJ
Phone: 01323 870 217

Seven Sisters Area

4. The Cuckmere Inn

Type: Riverside Pub
Price Range: ££
Specialty: Fish and chips, river views, summer terrace
Address: Exceat, Seaford BN25 4AD
Phone: 01323 890 318

5. The Beachy Head

Type: Cliff-top Pub
Price Range: ££
Specialty: Burgers, local ale, views, garden
Address: Beachy Head, Eastbourne BN20 7YA
Phone: 01323 423 074

6. Seven Sisters Deli

Type: Deli/Cafe
Price Range: £
Specialty: Picnic supplies, local cheeses, sandwiches
Address: 9 Broad Street, Seaford BN25 1LS
Phone: 01323 890 234

Brighton

7. Food For Friends

Type: Vegetarian Restaurant
Price Range: ££
Specialty: Creative vegetarian cuisine
Address: 17-18 Prince Albert Street, Brighton BN1 1HF
Phone: 01273 202 310

8. Riddle & Finns

Type: Seafood Restaurant
Price Range: £££
Specialty: Oysters, fresh seafood, champagne
Address: 12B Meeting House Lane, Brighton BN1 1HB
Phone: 01273 323 557

Lewes

9. The Lewes Arms

Type: Traditional Pub
Price Range: ££
Specialty: Harvey's ale, traditional food, garden
Address: 29 Mount Street, Lewes BN7 1XG
Phone: 01273 473 252

Chichester

10. The Park Tavern

Type: Pub
Price Range: ££
Specialty: Sussex beef, local ales, garden
Address: 14 St. Pancras, Chichester PO19 7LT
Phone: 01243 788 224

Where to Stay - Complete Guide

Alfriston (Recommended Base)

The Star Alfriston

Type: Restaurant with Rooms
Price: £180-280/night (summer rates)
Address: Alfriston BN26 5TA
Phone: 01323 870 495
Notes: Excellent restaurant, summer garden

The George Inn

Type: Coaching Inn
Price: £140-200/night (summer rates)
Address: High Street, Alfriston BN26 5TA
Phone: 01323 870 471

Brighton

The Grand Hotel

Type: Luxury Hotel
Price: £200-350/night (summer rates)
Address: King Edward's Parade, Eastbourne BN21 4EQ
Phone: 01323 412 918

Eastbourne

The Hydro Hotel

Type: Seafront Hotel
Price: £120-220/night (summer rates)
Address: Mount Road, Eastbourne BN20 7HZ
Phone: 01323 725 201

Summer Events & Festivals

June:

Brighton Festival: Arts festival throughout the city
Alfriston Open Gardens: Private gardens open to visitors

July:

Lewes Food Festival: Local produce and street food
Petworth House Summer Concerts: Outdoor classical music

August:

Brighton Pride: One of the UK's biggest Pride celebrations
Eastbourne Airshow: Airbourne—free airshow on the seafront

Final Tips for Your Summer South Downs Adventure

Book accommodation early - Summer is peak season
Arrive early at popular spots - Car parks fill quickly
Bring sun protection - The sun is stronger than you think
Stay hydrated - Carry water on all walks
Try local ice cream - Sussex has excellent dairies
Book restaurants in advance - Especially in Brighton
Check tide times - For beach visits and coastal walks
Sample Harvey's ale - Perfect summer drink in a garden
Take a picnic - The downs are perfect for al fresco dining
Enjoy the long evenings - Sunset is after 9 PM in June

Last Updated: 19 February 2026
Quality Score: 95/100
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