Littlehampton is a charming seaside town in West Sussex. It has a beautiful, large seafront and well-maintained promenade, both shingle and sandy beaches and a lively marina.
Water sports is popular here and you will often see people out sea swimming, paddle boarding, kit surfing or wind surfing. There are plenty of things to do in Littlehampton, with various activities and attractions.
Two of Littlehampton’s beaches have won awards, and the town is served by the beautiful River Arun which is great for scenic and refreshing walks. East Pier is a nice place to visit where the river meets the sea.
The cafes and restaurants are bustling, with a friendly and laid back atmosphere.
Littlehampton is a great place to visit or live with kids. It is a relaxed destination with plenty of family friendly activities.
I will be honest I often forget how great Littlehampton is, as it is often overshadowed by its neighbouring town of Worthing, Arundel and City of Chichester.
But when we do visit, we often leave with happy memories and smiles on our faces.
Things to do in Littlehampton
Seafront
Exploring Littlehampton seafront offers a blend of scenic beauty, with its long sandy beaches perfect for relaxation or coastal walks.
The well-maintained promenade makes a lovely walk, with cafes dotted along the seafront to stop for a bite to eat or a takeaway coffee.
There are many places to stop for a picnic, with large green spaces adjacent to the seafront making it the perfect space for gatherings. The colourful beach huts make it a picture-perfect place!
This is a popular place in Summer especially and the green open spaces on the seafront is great for games.
Mewsbrook Park
Mewsbrook Park in Littlehampton offers a serene setting with a boating lake, beautiful gardens, and a well-equipped, large play area for children.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely boat ride, grab a coffee at the park café, or explore the tranquil pathways for a relaxing stroll. It’s perfect for families, picnics, and nature lovers looking to unwind in a peaceful environment.
We love to buy a little bag of bird seeds from the cafe to feed the ducks and swans (and relentless seagulls!), wandering down to the play area with our kids.
Where: Mewsbrook Park, Hendon Avenue, Littlehampton, West Sussex, BN16 2LX
The Beach
Littlehampton Beach is well known to be family-friendly. Generally, the waves are not so harsh. The sandy areas of the beach make it more desirable compared to other beaches on the South East coast.
In the summer it is patrolled by a lifeguard. My little ones love the sandy beaches here and we could spend hours here, especially on a warmer day. There are lots of interesting sea shells and rocks they like collecting and sometimes we hunt for sea glass!
If you are looking for free things to do in Littlehampton – then this is the best one by far!
You can check the high tide in Littlehampton here.
Skatepark
Littlehampton Skatepark is a popular, modern facility located near the seafront, offering a mix of ramps, rails, and bowls catering to skateboarders, BMX riders, and scooter enthusiasts.
The concrete park is designed for all skill levels, with plenty of open space for practising tricks and jumps.
Its location near the beach makes it a perfect spot for a session while enjoying the coastal scenery. It’s a well-maintained, free-to-use spot for the local skating community.
All ages use it and generally, we have always had a positive experience despite the age gaps of people using it.
My little ones can never resist a go on the ramps here before visiting the beach.
Littlehampton Museum
Littlehampton Museum is housed in the historic Grade II listed Manor House and presents a fascinating journey through the town’s past.
Its exhibits include archaeological finds from the Bronze and Iron Ages, Roman artefacts, and insights into Littlehampton’s transformation from a Roman settlement to a Victorian seaside town.
It has free admission, interactive displays, and events that offer an engaging cultural experience for visitors of all ages.
We went one weekday morning and we were impressed by the variety of children’s activities on offer. My boy enjoyed being a butterfly detective.
Additionally, they offer talking tours – we were invited to join by a group of ladies, although I did politely decline as my son was keen to get to the skatepark!
Littlehampton Museum also offers some great half-term activities.
Find out more information here.
Where: Littlehampton Museum, The Manor House, Church Street, Littlehampton, BN17 5EW
Opening Times: Monday – Friday 9.00-16.30. Saturday 10.30-16.30. Closed Sundays and Bank Holidays.
Harbour Park
Harbour Park is a well-maintained amusement park which will keep your little ones entertained for hours. There is an indoor soft play, classic arcade games and outdoor rides.
They are super friendly and helpful in there as they are well used to hosting children’s parties. There is a little cafe there where you can buy refreshments, coffees, ice creams and hot food like fish & chips.
There is a large car park right outside also. Find out more information on Harbour Park Littlehampton here.
Where: Harbour Park, Windmill Rd, Littlehampton BN17 5LH
The Stage by The Sea
The Stage by the Sea in Littlehampton is an iconic seafront shelter with a unique, modern design resembling a flowing wave, providing a sheltered space for visitors to relax and enjoy coastal views.
It offers a functional yet artistic place to sit, rest, or watch the sunset after a day on the beach. Its striking architecture makes it a notable landmark along Littlehampton’s East Beach promenade, adding a contemporary touch to the town’s seaside charm.
Keep an eye out for music performances throughout the year.
Where: Banjo Road, Littlehampton, BN17 5NZ
Marina Gardens
Marina Gardens in Littlehampton is a charming recreational space near the seafront, with lovely lawns and flower beds.
It offers facilities like tennis courts, a putting green, and a miniature golf course, making it a fun spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
The park is also great for relaxing walks or picnics, with beautiful views of the surrounding area, providing a peaceful escape close to the beach.
Where: Irvine Rd, Littlehampton BN17 5JJ
Lighthouse, East Pier
The East Pier is where the river Arun meets the sea. The lighthouse at East Pier in Littlehampton is a small but striking structure, guiding boats along the River Arun and into the harbour.
The Lighthouse, although not huge has an interesting history. Originally built pre-World War 2, it was knocked down to detract the enemies.
Its white exterior contrasts beautifully with the blue skies and sea, making it a pretty photo opportunity.
The pier itself is great for walks, offering views of the river, the beach, and the surrounding coastline, making it a popular spot for visitors to get some fresh air.
We had a lovely time on the pier one morning, with my boy chatting with some locals fishing.
The Long Bench
Did you know Littlehampton is home to the longest bench in the world? You will find it sprawling along the promenade, winding around in places.
This is always a hit with my kids, as they find it fascinating that it is so long! The world’s longest bench can seat 300 people at a time and measures up to 324 metres in total.
Look and Sea Centre
The Look and Sea Centre in Littlehampton is a visitor hub that offers panoramic views from its observation tower, providing a bird’s-eye view of the River Arun, harbour, and coastline.
It also features interactive exhibits about the town’s maritime history and local heritage, where you can learn everything to do with docklands, harbours and the history of the smuggling trade.
With a café overlooking the river, it’s a great spot to relax while learning about the area’s rich seafaring past.
Where: 63-65 Surrey Street, Littlehampton, BN17 5AW.
The Windmill Theatre
The Windmill Theatre in Littlehampton is a small, community-focused venue offering a mix of films, live performances, and events.
If you are looking for things to do in Littlehampton on a rainy day, its cosy atmosphere is welcoming!
It is a popular spot for locals and visitors to enjoy a wide variety of entertainment, from blockbuster movies to local theatre productions.
Where: Windmill Rd, Littlehampton BN17 5LH
Oyster Pond
The Oyster Pond in Littlehampton is a picturesque lagoon near the seafront, popular with families for its calm waters and scenic surroundings.
Historically used for oyster farming, it’s now a tranquil spot where children can enjoy mini sailboats, and visitors can take in the peaceful atmosphere.
Its location next to the river and beach makes it a great place to relax, picnic, or simply enjoy the view.
This spot offers some welcome shade from the beach on warmer days.
Where: 89 South Terrace, Littlehampton BN17 5LJ
West Beach Local Nature Reserve
West Beach Nature Reserve in Littlehampton is a peaceful coastal haven, home to unspoiled sand dunes and diverse wildlife, perfect for nature lovers. This is one of our favourite places to see and things to do in Littlehampton.
Visitors can enjoy scenic walks, spot rare birds, and explore the natural beauty of the area, all while enjoying the fresh sea air.
It’s an ideal spot for quiet reflection, photography, or a beach day in a more tranquil, natural setting, compared to the busier East Beach.
Where: Littlehampton, BN17 5LH
River Arun Walks
A walk along the River Arun in Littlehampton offers beautiful views of both the river and the town’s maritime heritage.
Starting near the harbour, you can follow the riverside path that winds through lush greenery and past the bustling marina, watching boats sail in and out.
As you continue, the path opens up to more serene, open spaces, with opportunities to spot local wildlife, relax on benches, or pause to take in the scenic landscape as the river flows toward the sea.
If you are looking for things to do in Littlehampton this weekend, then factor in this lovely walk.
Norfolk Gardens
Norfolk Gardens in Littlehampton is a family-friendly recreation spot offering a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy tennis, a par-3 golf course, bowls, and the popular pirate-themed Buccaneer Bay Adventure Golf.
The park also features a miniature railway, making it a fun destination for all ages. Located by the seafront, it’s ideal for combining sports with a day at the beach.
Where: Norfolk Gardens, Sea Road, Littlehampton, West Sussex BN17 5JT
Littlehampton Miniature Railway
This is one of our favourite things to do in Littlehampton with kids. They love experiencing the seafront by this miniature railway.
It has been running since 1937 and is a firm favourite with little ones and families alike. It runs from Mewsbrook Park Station and Norfolk Road Station.
Find out more details on the Littlehampton Railway here.
Brookfield Park
Brookfield Park in Littlehampton is a real hidden gem. It offers a large, spacious park with open fields, walking paths and a large lake, making it a picturesque walk.
This is a great spot for a dog walk in Littlehampton. There is also a well-equipped children’s play area, picnic benches and plenty of space for them to run around and have fun.
The park has beautiful wildflower meadows and it is a good place for spotting wildlife. We often enjoy a walk outdoors with the kids here.
Where: Worthing Road, Littlehampton, BN17 6UR
Littlehampton Golf Club
Littlehampton Golf Club, founded in 1889, is the oldest golf club in Sussex and sits on a stunning coastal links course.
Its 18-hole course is known for its challenging layout, influenced by coastal winds and natural dunes, offering a unique experience for golfers of all levels.
The club also provides excellent practice facilities, including a driving range and putting greens.
Located by the River Arun and the sea, the course boasts picturesque views, making it a memorable destination for golf enthusiasts.
Where: 170 Rope Walk, Littlehampton BN17 5DL
Where To Eat In Littlehampton
The Arun View
The Arun View is renowned for its stunning views of the River Arun. Serving delicious seasonal dishes, British pub classics and succulent seafood, this hidden gem is well worth a visit.
Their home made desserts are to die for. They have a decent children’s menu and selection of meals for those who are vegan and gluten free.
Where: Wharf Road, Littlehampton, West Sussex, BN17 5DD
East Beach Cafe
East Beach Cafe is an iconic and remarkable building to dine in. It is an architectural masterpiece that you can marvel at from the inside and out.
Enjoy uninterrupted views of the sea, with convenient parking nearby. They serve breakfast and lunch, with a children’s menu and offerings to take away.
Where: East Beach Cafe, Sea Road, Littlehampton, West Sussex BN17 5DL.
The Edge by the Sea
The Edge by the Sea is an independent cafe and takeaway. This is a great option if you want a coffee to take out whilst walking along the seafront, or to enjoy on the beach.
They offer a range of pastries, cakes and snacks additionally.
Where: Norfolk Gardens, 100 Sea Road, Littlehampton, W.Sussex, BN17 5TJ
The Gravy Boat
The Gravy Boat is famous for it’s carveries in Littlehampton. Serving up classic comfort food and with an array of dishes to choose from.
Where: 46 Pier Road, Littlehampton BN17 5LW
Vardar
Vardar is a family-run, Mediterranean bar and restaurant. Dishes include delicious salads, grilled foods, seafood tagliatelle and homemade burgers.
Where: 3 Selborne Rd, Littlehampton BN17 5NH
How To Get To Littlehampton
Train
You can get the train to Littlehampton from London, with an approximate travel time of 100 minutes as well as regular services from Brighton and Chichester. Getting the train to Littlehampton is a great option for visiting.
Cycle
Cycling to Littlehampton offers scenic routes, especially if you come from nearby coastal towns or through the countryside of West Sussex.
The South Coast Cycle Route (National Cycle Route 2) is a great option, as it follows the coast and provides a mostly flat, well-signposted path.
You can cycle from Brighton or Worthing along this route, passing through coastal towns and countryside, before arriving in Littlehampton.
Littlehampton has several public bike racks available at convenient spots around town, including near the seafront, train station, and town centre.
You can find racks at locations like The Windmill Theatre near East Beach, Littlehampton Train Station, and along the High Street, allowing easy access to shops, cafes, and local attractions. These racks provide a secure place to lock your bike while you explore the town.
Drive
Littlehampton is easily accessible by road via the A259 or A27, following local signs for Littlehampton. There is plenty of parking at Harbour Park and at the Wave.
Bus
The 700 coastal bus route arrives at the Anchor Springs bus terminal. The 700 travels all the way to and from Brighton.
There is so many great things to do in Littlehampton Sussex, I hope you have found this helpful.
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