Things to do in West Sussex, England: The Best Nature & Parks

Dunreyth Alpacas offer Alpaca Walking Experiences, which have been enjoyed by people from as far afield as South Africa, China, Hong Kong, Holland, India and The Arab Emirates. Alpaca walks are available from Wednesday to Sunday every week of the year (except Christmas Day). WALKS MUST BE BOOKED IN ADVANCE . Unlike some other venues we offer clients to walk an an Alpaca each. No sharing unless requested . Walks are at 10.30am. Children must be over six years old, . As alpacas are herd animals and don't like to be alone, at least two alpacas must be booked per walk, which takes approximately 50 minutes, dependent on the alpacas' pace, which isn't all that fast. We have an onsite shop selling hand knitted Alpaca wear made from our own Alpaca for that unique gift and also Alpaca souvenirs of your Alpaca adventure ..

Highdown Hill is a prominent hill in the South Downs, as its name suggests, reaching a height of 81 metres (266 ft). It has been managed in a sensitive way for many year making it an imporant site of wildlife and chalk grassland flower. It is a popular spot for picnickers, dog-walkers and local riders. With view across to Littlehampton, Angmering, Ferring and Worthing with views, when the weather is good, east as far as the Seven Sisters and west to the Isle of Wight.

Arundel Castle and Gardens open from 5th August 2020. Open Tuesdays to Sundays inclusive and August bank holiday Monday. Arundel Castle, home of the Duke of Norfolk, reflecting nearly 1,000 years of history,and commanding the surrounding landscape with magnificent views across the South Downs and River Arun. Fine furniture and works of art in sumptuously furnished rooms. Ancient Motte & Keep. Spectacular gardens. 14th century Fitzalan Chapel. Collection of arms & armour. Personal possessions of Mary Queen of Scots. Pre-booked tickets only.

West Dean Gardens is one of the greatest restored Gardens open to the public in England. Wander through the 300 foot long Edwardian pergola, visit the restored Victorian glasshouses, Walled Kitchen Gardens, Sunken Garden and orchards. Finish with a walk through the arboretum, Spring Garden and the peaceful parkland. Enjoy an inspirational day out visiting West Dean Gardens. A rare oasis of beauty and tranquillity in the heart of the South Downs, now open year round.

Come and discover rescued rural buildings set in a beautiful landscape, which tell the stories of the people who lived and worked in them over 1,000 years. Explore our 40-acre site and visit our collection – we have more than 50 historic buildings, from a replica Anglo-Saxon hall house to an Edwardian tin church. Enjoy a regular programme of demonstrations, including milling in our 17th century watermill; cooking in our Tudor kitchen; blacksmithing in our Victorian smithy, baking in our newly opened bakehouse; plus seasonal demonstrations. Take a walk in the woods, bring the dog (we are dog friendly), visit our waterside cafe or enjoy your own picnic. New exhibit buildings include: a dairy and bakehouse, near the watermill, plus a late 18th century barn and early 19th century stable known as May Day Farm. Need a new hobby or a new skill? Try our day courses in traditional rural trades and crafts or historic building conservation.

Set in the splendor of the South Downs; adjacent to the River Arun; overlooked by the historic Arundel Castle skyline this gorgeous wetland reserve is a great place for a great day out in West Sussex for the whole family. Arundel Wetland Centre is home to a collection of over 50 species of wildfowl from around the world in natural settings, on display 364 days a year so there is always something to see. This gorgeous nature reserve has boat rides and an amazing reedbed boardwalk. The 8 wildlife hides bring you close to Sussex wildlife plus there is a family oriented Discovery Hide which hosts events in wet weather. Added to this are two adventure playgrounds, the Water’s Edge Cafe serving takeaway drinks, snack & ice creams and a gift shop with unique take-home treats. Arundel Wetland Centre is fully accessible with buggy and wheelchair friendly pathways, comfortable hides and disabled and parent & baby facilities.

A Great English Garden of rare plants and stunning landscapes make Borde Hill the perfect day out for horticultural enthusiasts, country lovers and families. Tranquil outdoor ' rooms' include the Azalea Ring and Rhododendron gardens, fragrant Rose Garden and scenic Italian Garden, plus subtropical dells and ruins. Woodland walks, adventure playground and events throughout the season. See website for details.