20 Great Day Trips From Brighton By Car And Train

Located on the south coast of England, Brighton is famous for the Royal Pavilion, Volk’s Electric Railway, British Airways i360, and Brighton Pier. Bordering West Sussex, Kent, and Surrey, many possibilities exist for day trips from Brighton.

Whether you drive, take a bus tour, or ride the train from Brighton Station, here are some great trips to explore surrounding areas. Taking the train provides quicker access but driving along the East Sussex coast offers stunning views of the English Channel in either direction.

These favorite day tours from Brighton take under two hours and sorted by travel time. However, peak times and traffic can add to your travel time.

Lewes And Charleston Farmhouse

• Location: East Sussex | Distance: 9 miles | Travel time: 20 minutes 

A day trip from Brighton to Lewes and Charleston Farmhouse is ideal for art lovers. Lewes, a charming market town just 17 minutes by train.

It offers historic sites like the 11th-century Lewes Castle, Southover Grange Gardens, and the Anne of Cleves Museum. Its High Street is lined with antiques and independent shops like Closet and Botts.

From Lewes, Charleston Farmhouse is a 10-minute taxi ride (or quicker by car). Once home to Vanessa Bell and the Bloomsbury Group, the house is filled with decorative art covering walls, furniture, and even lampshades.

The site also features a lovely garden and a modern gallery with contemporary exhibitions. A must-see for anyone interested in art and design.

Contributed by Hannah from Art Distance

Worthing

• Location: West Sussex | Distance: 14 miles | Travel time: 30 minutes 

Worthing is a quieter seaside town in West Sussex, about 30 minutes by car or 45–60 minutes by bus from Brighton. There is also the option to catch the train, which will take approximately 25 minutes and drop you at either of Worthing’s train stations. 

Though more low-key than Brighton, Worthing offers a classic beach experience with a pier full of amusements, minus the crowds. For entertainment, check out the Worthing Pavilion Theatre at the pier’s entrance, which hosts shows, films, and workshops.

You can also rent gear for water activities or take a scenic coastal walk to nearby Lancing. Don’t miss local spots like Crabshack, Perch on the Pier, and the Laughing Dog Cafe.

Contributed by Aimee from Our Salt Souls

Arundel Castle

• Location: West Sussex | Distance: 22 miles | Travel time: 40 minutes

Access the historic town of Arundel and its medieval castle by driving the A27 west of Brighton. Visiting Arundel Castle is the area’s highlight. Enjoy art, history, opulent castle rooms and stunning gardens in one location. Home to the Duke and Duchess of Norfolk, it’s best explored over four to five hours.

Dating to 1067, the highlight is the keep which we climbed for panoramic views of the River Arun, the town, and countryside. Don’t miss the Fitzalan Chapel, known for its medieval architecture and stained glass. It adjoins St Nicholas Church and serves both Anglican and Catholic worship.

Stroll through the formal gardens, like the Collector Earl’s Garden with fountains, sculptures, and rare plants, and the more rustic Stumpery. The gardens open before the castle—ideal for nature lovers.

Inside, explore lavish bedrooms and the library filled with fine art and antiques. Choose from various tickets to tailor your visit.

Seven Sisters

• Location: East Sussex | Distance: 19 miles | Travel time: 40 mins

The white cliffs of the Seven Sisters are between Seaford and Eastbourne, but the best place to access the cliffs is from Seaford. This small town is 45-50 minutes from Brighton by train, bus or car. Direct trains between Brighton and Eastbourne take around 40 minutes.

From Seaford train station, it’s a one-hour coastal walk to the cliffs. Most of the walk is along the beachfront and Seaford Head Nature Reserve, offering stunning sea and cliff views.

Before reaching the white cliffs, stop at Cuckmere Haven Beach. Walk along the shore for views of the cliffs above, but only at low tide, as the beach nearly disappears at high tide. The hike to the top of the cliffs is lovely. The full walk to Eastbourne is about 14 miles, or you can return to Seaford.

On the way back, the view over Cuckmere Haven Beach reveals it is an estuary, just like Silver Sand Beach. Most days, you will see people kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding on the river.

Contributed by Kristin from Scotland Less Explored

Amberley

• Location: West Sussex | Distance: 24 miles | Travel time: 40 mins

For a quieter day out, head to the village of Amberley in West Sussex. Known for its charming thatched cottages, it feels like stepping back in time.

One highlight is Amberley Castle, a 900-year-old fortress with historic gardens. Another is the Amberley Museum & Heritage Centre, where I rode a narrow-gauge railway, saw vintage buses, and learned about local crafts like blacksmithing and pottery.

The museum makes a great day outing in Sussex for families, offering hands-on history and craft demos. Surrounded by the South Downs National Park, the village is great for hiking, with trails and scenic views that connect to nearby towns.

The River Arun runs close by, great for canoeing or fishing. Amberley also has antique shops, local craft boutiques, and the Amberley Village Tea Room, where I enjoyed a classic English tea. A working chalk pit nearby adds a unique glimpse into the area’s industrial past.

London

• Location: Westminster, London | Distance: 54 miles | Travel time: 1 hr 5 mins

You can reach central London from Brighton in just over an hour by direct train. Cheaper routes may take up to 90 minutes and require a change. Trains arrive at Victoria Station, with easy access via the Underground.

In London, we suggest exploring the British Museum, or see sights like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the iconic Tower Bridge. Harry Potter fans might visit the Warner Bros Studio.

For multiple attractions, consider a Go City London Pass for savings. For shopping enthusiasts,, purchase luxury in Knightsbridge or antiques on Portobello Road, and don’t miss Notting Hill’s colorful streets. Visitors can enjoy the rainbow-painted homes on Lancaster Road and Hillgate Place.

Bodiam Castle

• Location: East Sussex | Distance: 36 miles | Travel time: 1 hr 8 mins

A day trip to Bodiam Castle, just north of Hastings, offers a glimpse of a 14th-century moated castle built by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge in 1385.

The castle’s square layout and drum towers make it a favorite for photographers. You can climb the towers, walk the battlements, and explore the ruins inside. Reenactments and guided tours bring its history to life.

Visit in spring or fall to avoid summer crowds. Tickets are available online or at the gate; National Trust members get in free.

Wear sturdy shoes and check the weather—most of the visit is outdoors. For the easiest trip, drive from Brighton and arrive just after the 10 am opening. Trains take longer and require a taxi from Robertsbridge Station.

Portsmouth

• Location: Hampshire | Distance: 50 miles | Travel time: 1 hour 15 mins

Portsmouth is a great day trip for all ages, especially history lovers. At the historic dockyard, tour the HMS Victory and HMS Warrior, exploring decks, gun ports, and crew quarters.

Don’t miss the Mary Rose Museum, home to Henry VIII’s warship, raised in 1982 after sinking in 1545. Housed in a climate-controlled space to prevent further decay, it features thousands of Tudor artifacts.

For panoramic views, head up the Spinnaker Tower. Book a high tea to enjoy the café 345 feet above the harbor.

Military enthusiasts will enjoy the D-Day Story Museum, packed with WWII artifacts. End your visit with a harbor cruise for scenic views of the city.

Rye

• Location: East Sussex | Distance: 49 miles | Travel time: 1 hr 20 mins

Rye, East Sussex, is one of the top day trips from Brighton—about 1 hour 20 minutes by car or 2 hours by train. This medieval village feels like stepping back in time, with cobbled lanes, half-timbered houses, tearooms, and historic pubs.

Some of the best things to do in Rye include climbing up to the top of St Mary’s Cathedral for sweeping 360-degree views of Rye and beyond, all the way over the Winchelsea and the English Channel. For those interested in Rye’s history, a visit to Ypres Castle will impress, now a museum showing life in the 1200s.

Don’t miss the Rye Model, a scale town replica with a light-and-sound show, plus a vintage arcade upstairs.

End your trip at the Mermaid Inn, rebuilt in 1420. Enjoy a drink by the Giant’s Fireplace or dine on local fare. Numerous celebrities have frequented the Mermaid, but be forewarned, it’s reported to be haunted!

Contributed by Sarah from In Search of Sarah

Fishbourne Roman Palace

• Location: West Sussex | Distance: 35 miles | Travel time: 1 hr 20 mins

Fishbourne Roman Palace, near Chichester and about 80 minutes from Brighton by train and local transport. It’s the largest Roman residence in Northern Europe, best known for its intricate mosaic floors. Highlights include the famous Cupid on a Dolphin, and an early in-floor heating system (hypocaust).

Though much remains unexcavated, we explored preserved ruins, bathhouses, and a museum full of artifacts. Outside, the reconstructed Roman gardens reveal what Romans grew and ate.

With a café on-site, it’s easy to spend a few hours here exploring history, art, and daily life in Roman Britain. Fishbourne Palace delivers history, art, and a touch of ancient daily life. It’s a worthwhile day trip from Brighton for anyone interested in Roman history.

Leeds Castle

• Location: Kent | Distance: 69 miles | Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Leeds Castle is about 80 minutes by car via the A23, M25, and M20, or around 2 hours by train to Maidstone plus a taxi. Plan a full day, with the grounds open from 10 am to 5 pm, and tickets are valid for a year.

A scenic walk leads through gardens to the castle, set on two lake islands and often called “the loveliest castle in the world.”

Once home to six queens, including Catherine of Aragon, the castle features elegant rooms and historical artifacts. Some interiors reflect updates by its last owner, Lady Baillie.

Don’t miss the Leeds Castle Maze, a fun but challenging puzzle made from yew hedges. Solve it and find a hidden underground grotto adorned with shells. Other highlights include the falconry shows, a Knights’ playground, and adventure golf for kids.

Windsor Castle

• Location: Berkshire | Distance: 70 miles | Travel time: 1 hr 30 mins

Windsor Castle makes a road trip all year round, for royal history lovers. About 1.5 hours by car from Brighton, it’s the world’s oldest and largest occupied castle, home to 40 monarchs since William the Conqueror began building it in 1070.

Explore the grand State Apartments, still used for official visits, and visit St. George’s Chapel, where royal weddings and Sunday services take place. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard, held Thursdays and Saturdays at 11 a.m.

After touring the castle, explore Windsor town, enjoy the shops, parks, or stop for Afternoon Tea. Open most of the year, it’s worth visiting in any season.

Contributed by Stefanie from Open Road Odysseys

Legoland Windsor

• Location: Berkshire | Distance: 68 miles | Travel time: 1 hr 30 mins

For Lego enthusiasts, families with young children, or avid theme park fans, Legoland Windsor is well worth a day trip from Brighton. The 90-minute drive is mostly on main roads and the easiest way to get there.

While rides like the Flight of the Sky Lion, UK’s first flying theatre are big draws, there’s more to enjoy. The park has pirate shows, Lego building zones, the 4D cinema, and a scenic train ride past Lego animals.

Don’t miss Miniland, with global landmarks built from nearly 40 million bricks, including a 5.2m-tall Canary Wharf and a detailed Forbidden City.

Buy from the Lego store early to avoid end-of-day crowds. You can use the collection point to hold your purchases. Book tickets in advance to skip the lines.

Contributed by Louise from Travel with the Whitlows

Camber Sands

• Location: East Sussex | Distance: 53 miles | Travel time: 1 hr 30 mins

Camber Sands, near Rye, is a top East Sussex beach with golden sand, dunes, and great views. It’s popular for kitesurfing (launch from Jury’s Gap), windsurfing, and family beach days.

Visit at low tide for more space. Dogs are allowed with restrictions. Parking is limited—arrive early and bring your own snacks and shade.

Afterward, stop at Rye’s Ship’s Inn for dishes like Rye Bay Fish Pie. Driving from Brighton takes about 1.5 hours via the A27.

Winchester

• Location: Hampshire | Distance: 75 miles | Travel time: 1 hr 40 minutes 

History lovers shouldn’t miss Winchester, just 2 hours from Brighton by car. Once England’s capital, it’s a charming, compact city full of culture, and a romantic UK destination to escape the bustle.

Top sights include Winchester Cathedral and the Great Hall with King Arthur’s Round Table. Jane Austen is buried here, and poet John Keats was inspired by its landscapes.

Follow the Keats Trail through scenic countryside, or enjoy the city’s pedestrian streets, shops, restaurants, and markets. In winter, don’t miss the famous Winchester Christmas Market by the cathedral.

Contributed by Hannah from Mariée Travel

Southampton

• Location: Hampshire | Distance: 67 miles | Travel time: 1 hr 40 mins

Located to the west along England’s South Coast, Southampton is a a step into the past with ancient buildings, surrounding city walls, and crumbling abbey ruins nearby.

To get to Southampton from Brighton, there are two options, drive or take the train. Driving takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes, while a direct train from Brighton to Southampton Central takes ten minutes longer.

In Southampton, there are plenty of fantastic things to do. If you love history, the Tudor House and Garden and Merchant’s House are great places to start. These traditional buildings are a direct link to Southampton’s past. 

If you’d prefer to dive more into maritime history, the SeaCity Museum is a great choice and features stories of the Titanic, which departed from Southampton before it sank.”

Contributed by Alice from Adventures of Alice

Dungeness

• Location: Kent | Distance: 63 miles | Travel time: 1 hr 45 minutes 

Head to Dungeness for a complete change of pace and scenery. Drive via the A27 and A259 through Rye; signs from New Romney lead to Dungeness. Public transport is limited. The landscape of Dungeness is wild and remote; there are no arcades or ice cream shops, just big skies and the sea. 

Dungeness Point features two lighthouses. We suggest climbing the old one for views over Romney Marsh. Nearby, 1960s nuclear power stations add to the stark landscape.

Scattered along the beach are huts and converted train carriages, including Prospect Cottage, once home to artist Derek Jarman.

Grab fresh seafood at the Dungeness Snack Shack, set in a converted hut. You can also ride the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch steam train along the coast to Dymchurch.

Contributed by Suzanne from Meandering Wild

Paultons Park

• Location: Hampshire | Distance: 73 miles | Travel time: 1 hr 47 mins

Paultons Park near Southampton makes a top family day trip, especially for young kids. It’s one of the best theme parks in Europe, and home to Peppa Pig World, with themed rides, a large playground, and the UK’s biggest Peppa Pig shop.

Don’t miss The Lost Kingdom, a dinosaur-themed area with exciting rides and life-sized dinos. Across the park, there are 70+ attractions for all ages, including roller coasters, water rides, and animal encounters.

Packing tip: Bring a change of clothes for the water rides, and consider pre-booking tickets online for discounts and faster entry.

Driving takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. By train, go from Brighton to Southampton Central (1h 53m), then take the X7 bus (22m) to the park. Or take a train to Romsey and grab a bus or taxi.

Contributed by Sylvie from European Cities with Kids

New Forest

• Location: Hampshire | Distance: 82 miles | Travel time: 1 hr 50 mins

For a nature-filled day trip, leave Brighton behind and head to the New Forest National Park. It’s under a 2-hour drive, with plenty of car parks, and welcomes visitors with loads of outdoor activities and hidden gems.

Start at the New Forest Heritage Centre for information and bike rentals. While walking trails are great, cycling lets you see more. Try the 9-mile Hawkhill Trail or Old Railway route, each takes about 3 hours.

Look out for wild horses, which is always a winner with children. For more animals and local goods, stop by family-run Hockeys Farm.

Contributed by Pauline from Beeloved City

White Cliffs Of Dover

• Location: Kent | Distance: 106 miles | Travel time: 2 hrs

The White Cliffs of Dover, rising 350ft above sea level, make a stunning day trip—just under 2 hours by car from Brighton. Public transport is possible but takes over 3 hours via London.

Stretching 16 miles, the cliffs offer scenic hikes for all levels. The most popular is the 2-mile trail from the National Trust Visitor Centre to South Foreland Lighthouse. It offers views of the English Channel and even France on clear days.

Stop at Mrs. Knott’s Tea Room at the lighthouse, for delicious homemade soups, cakes, and scones. Alternatively, pack a picnic to enjoy atop the cliffs.

Dover is rich in history, from ancient settlers to WWII. Visit the Dover Museum or explore Dover Castle, England’s largest, built in the 11th century.

Contributed by Sophie from We Dream of Travel

Day Trips From Brighton Conclusion

While Brighton has the Brighton Pier, pebbled beach, and plenty of attractions to warrant a stay, many places are worth exploring beyond this south coast city. As you can see, you won’t have a shortage of areas to explore if you’re seeking some days out from Brighton.

So, whether you want to enjoy long walks, explore a hidden gem, or check out a new attraction, you have many choices. While some areas are fastest by car, you can take the train to others for stress-free transportation. With 20 outing options, it’s time to start planning your fun-filled Brighton day trip itinerary