A classic coast day
Choose Bognor Regis or Littlehampton as your base. Walk the promenade, spend time by the water, then continue beyond the busiest central beach for a change of pace. Check tide and weather conditions first.
History & river
Start in Arundel, explore the historic centre and its major landmarks, then spend time beside the River Arun. The town’s compact scale makes it well suited to a slower day on foot.
Coast to countryside
Combine a morning at the beach with an inland afternoon. The district’s appeal lies in how quickly the landscape changes between Channel coast, river valley, settlements and the edge of the South Downs.
Getting around
The principal towns are connected by road and rail, and local buses serve many communities. Walking is often the best way to explore individual centres once you arrive. If driving, use official car-park information rather than assuming street parking will be available, particularly on warm weekends and during events.
When to visit
Summer brings the fullest seaside atmosphere and seasonal beach services, but spring and early autumn can be excellent for walking. Winter shows another side of the coast: quieter, windier and more exposed. Whatever the season, the shoreline deserves weather-appropriate clothing and sensible footwear.
Build a better day out
Do not over-plan. Arun’s main places are close enough to combine, but each rewards unhurried exploration. Allow time for the promenade, a riverside detour or an unexpected stop in a village. If visiting a ticketed attraction, confirm its opening calendar separately; many historic and visitor attractions operate seasonally or vary hours across the year.
Respect the place
Use bins or take rubbish home, follow beach and countryside signage, keep dogs under appropriate control and avoid disturbing wildlife. On the coast, safety information is there for a reason: flags, patrol advice and local restrictions should override any general guide, including this site.