Nestled behind the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park, just ten minutes by car from Brighton & Hove, sits the historic village of Ditchling. Characterised by beamed and flint cottages with picturesque gardens surrounded by beautiful countryside, Ditchling offers its visitors a feast for the eyes… but it is more than just a pretty face. 

There is plenty to entertain you in Ditchling with art galleries, museums, vineyards, a number of cafes, local pubs and boutique shops, all serving and selling artisan produce by local businesses and residents. 

It truly is a wonderful place to stay at any time of year as it changes so beautifully with the seasons. There are bluebells in spring, champagne picnics during summer, the russet tones of autumnal trees as the weather cools, and the pull of the roaring pub fire during winter.

Read on to discover how you can fill a perfect rural escape to Ditchling, according to our insider guide.

History

Ditchling has a rich historical past dating back to the Anglo-Saxon Period. It was first mentioned in text in 765AD so it offers a unique insight to over 1000 years of Sussex heritage.

Over the centuries, Ditchling passed through many notable hands, with Ditchling Garden Manor being awarded to Anne of Cleves as part of her divorce from King Henry VIII. The house, now known as ‘Wings Place’ remains one of the village’s most iconic landmarks and is considered one of the best examples of a complete Tudor house in the country.

It was the 20^th Century, however, which brought arts and crafts to Ditchling.

The arrival of sculptor and letter cutter Eric Gill in 1907 attracted a wealth of artists and creatives who were inspired by the incredible landscape and natural materials within the area. There burgeoned a creative community who continue to produce artworks and crafts which can be seen in the Ditchling Museum and Gallery of Art & Craft.

Food & Drink

Surrounded by vineyards, farms and independent food producers, the eateries of Ditchling serve nothing but the finest, locally sourced produce. From Sunday roasts to al la carte menus, or a sausage roll from the café – the cuisine of Ditchling is mouth-wateringly delicious. 

The Green Welly

The Green Welly sits in the heart of the village serving breakfasts, lunch and afternoon tea to happy cyclists, walkers and residents alike – also welcoming their four-legged friends.

Everything in the café is home-baked and can be served with a selection of individually roasted coffees, a variety of teas, or cold drinks. They are also a licensed premises serving wine, beers, cider and prosecco which can be enjoyed during the summer in their courtyard garden – bliss. 

The Nutmeg Tree

Step back in time to the 1940s when popping into The Nutmeg Tree. It’s a colourful and quaint tearoom styled in the era, complete with uniformed waiters & waitresses and with the light sounds of period-appropriate music. It is the perfect place to fuel up for a walk or bike ride, or for an indulgent, old-school lunch. Breakfasts are fantastic – from full fry-ups (with good veggie options) to hot buttered crumpets, and if you’re after a picnic there are fresh pasties and sausage rolls to take away.

Ridgeview Vineyard and Wine Estate

Ridgeview is a true pioneer of English sparkling wine. The team here have been producing world-class wines for over 20 years from their vineyard and winery at the base of the South Downs. Sip a selection of their wares in the tasting room with Downland views or take a tour of the vineyards, or make a reservation in the on-site Rows & Vine Restaurant. During the summer you can make a day of it by reserving a hamper and soaking up the Sussex sunshine in the Wine Garden. 

Pubs in Ditchling

The Bull Hotel & Restaurant

If you’re after something special, celebratory or indulgent – look no further than The Bull Restaurant. Showcasing the best of British, the Bull’s menu highlights the finest produce of the season. Hearty, luxurious and quintessentially English, their dishes bring elegance and majesty to the table.

Choose from their famous grazing food, small plates (ideal for sharing), and their bigger plates for when you arrive with an appetite! Their Sunday roasts are also legendary, with options for meat eaters, vegetarians and vegans – but definitely book to avoid disappointment. 

The White Horse Inn

This cosy 12th-century pub is a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Found at the foot of the Sussex South Downs, The White Horse Inn’s locally-sourced menus, extensive ale offerings, delicious Sunday roasts and courtyard patio makes it a wonderful location to refuel.

Walking & Cycling

From strolling around the village to walking the South Downs Way, Ditchling Village is the perfect base from which to start a rural adventure. There are several mapped footpaths leading through the patchwork fields at the base of the Downs, or leading up to the ridge where the panoramic views over the county are breath-taking.

The ridge links Devil’s Dyke with the Jack & Jill windmills and Ditchling Beacon (where there is often an ice cream van waiting on hand to provide refreshments in the warmer months), or there are some fantastic pubs in the nearby villages of Plumpton and East Chiltington, both of which are accessible on foot. 

For cyclists, Ditchling Beacon is one of the great cycling challenges in the south-east, and every weekend the village sees dozens of cyclists gliding through the streets. Bikes can be hired at Hassocks Community Cycle Hire, for an afternoon, day or longer, and they offer guided rides as well as route suggestions and advice.

And then there’s the famous London to Brighton bike ride which passes through the village, where competitors brave the steep incline of the beacon before the final leg, rolling downhill in to Brighton. During this time, locals and visitors line the streets to cheer cyclists on, which makes for a great atmosphere – before heading to one of the pubs listed above!

Within easy walking distance of the village, Stonywish Nature reserve offers 50 acres of natural parkland, home to a wide variety of wildlife including several species of birds, foxes, deer and owls. Ditchling Common is just a mile or two further but has free parking and 188 acres of beautiful grassland, woodlands and fishing ponds where you can spend the day exploring, climbing trees and picnicking during the warmer seasons. 

Art and Culture

Many artists and craftspeople came to live and work in Ditchling from the beginning of the 20th Century onwards establishing this village as one of the most important places for the visual arts and crafts in Britain.

Visit the nationally renowned Ditchling Museum of Art & Craft which is host to a lively programme of events and exhibitions held throughout the year. Likewise, The Turner Dumbrell workshops are home to many resident artists and craftspeople who open their doors during the Artists’ Open House Trail during the May Brighton Festival. For beautiful bespoke jewellery, look no further than Pruden & Smith Goldsmiths which also provide tours of their workshop and an insight into the Pruden family history within the village. 

Biannually, a fair has been held in the village since 1312, bringing the whole village together – both residents and visitors alike, to celebrate the rich traditions and keep the stories of Ditchling alive. During autumn, don’t miss the annual apple fair where residents and businesses celebrate all things appley! From freshly pressed apple juice to cider and smoothies – there is something to drink for everyone, plus ‘welly wanging’ and dancing the night away to live music in the orchard. 

Where to stay in Ditchling

If you’re looking for accommodation and places to stay in Ditchling, book direct with Simple Getaway and save unnecessary fees on Airbnb and VRBO – we offer the cheapest rate every time, guaranteed! Give us a call today, or browse our selection of luxury Sussex-based holiday homes here.

Often mentioned as one of the sunniest cities in the UK, the city of Chichester is full of history and charm and a place definitely worth exploring on a visit to Sussex. Whatever your interests, Chichester is full of places to enjoy, from history, to dining, to walks, to water, this Sussex location it all. Here are our recommendations of what to see, things to do and foodie spots not to miss!

Roman City

Originally known as Noviomagus Reginorum, the City of Chichester dates back as far as Roman times, over 1900 years ago. Much of its Roman heritage can be seen on a visit to Chichester.

Chichester City Walls

Most notable are the city walls, originally built by the Romans as a defense wall for protection, with four gates to control trade and access into the city. Incredibly, the vast majority of the city walls has remained through the years and around 80% of the 1.5 mile structure is still visible today. At seven metres high, the wall is very substantial, consisting of stone, flint and chalk.

It is quite remarkable to comprehend how something of such stature could be built and have been maintained for over 1900 years since the Romans reigned the city of Noviomagus Reginorum, or what we have come to know as Chichester.

Fishbourne Roman Palace

For more Roman discoveries, the village of Fishbourne is just a short drive away from Chichester and is home to the Roman Palace and Gardens, an archaeological site filled with ancient Roman mosaics and artefacts.

The Roman city was built in a grid system with the four main streets forming a cross, now known as Chichester Market Cross. This cross was built in 1501 to provide shelter to those selling produce in the market streets.

Today, this cross marks the centre of the town, from which you can reach, North, East, South and West Streets, each of which are lined with boutique clothing shops, jewellery shops, antique stores, bars and restaurants.

Chichester Cathedral

A wander along West Street will lead you to the grand Cathedral of Chichester, founded in 681 by St Wilfrid with construction commencing in 1076. The Cathedral has gone through a number of fires during its lifetime, and many of the structures have been repaired and rebuilt as a result. In the 1400’s, the cathedral spire and bell tower were erected, the latter of which is claimed to be the only surviving medieval bell tower to exist.

Chichester Shopping, Drinking & Dining

East, South and North Streets lead the way to Chichester high streets consisting of an array of boutique shops, antique jewellery stores, bars and restaurants to keep you busy during your visit to Chichester.

Chichester Canal & Marina

Further along, South Street will lead the way to the old city canal where you can take a boat tour to explore the countryside along the water, or even take a self-guided tour and rent a rowboat for you and your family (and even your well-behaved dog!).

Nautical visitors may want to take a trip down to Chichester Marina, just 10 minutes drive from Chichester city centre. Enjoy some lunch at the marina cafe and watch the boats arrive and depart from the city or take a boat tour from the harbour and explore the coastline by sea.

South Downs National Park

If you prefer to explore the countryside on foot, you are in luck! Chichester is right by the South Downs and has plenty of countryside walks to offer. Just North of Chichester you’ll reach the walk surrounding Goodwood, with many walks North, East or West in amongst the picturesque South Downs.

Fancy a sit down? Along with great food and drinks within the City walls, further afield in Chichester you will find a number of country pubs serving some excellent local produce all in their own beautiful settings. Our top two favourites, The Gribble Inn and The Fox Goes Free are just 8 and 13 minutes drive away respectively, or close to many walking routes.

Need a place to stay in Chichester?

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For accommodation options, we have holiday lets in both Chichester and Arundel. Book directly with Simple Getaway and save unnecessary fees on Airbnb and VRBO – we offer the cheapest rate every time, guaranteed! Contact us on 01273 640281 to discuss. 

The City of Brighton is often referred to as eclectic, cosmopolitan, and ‘artsy’, the perfect place for a getaway! Brighton has maintained its popular destination city status for many years drawing visitors from across the country. Planning a trip to Brighton? Here are our recommended spots to visit!

Brighton Beach

Brighton is world famous for its long, pebbled beach, frequented by locals year-round and popular amongst visitors during the hot summer months. There are enough activities surrounding the beach to keep anyone entertained on a visit to this seaside resort.

The 200-year-old Brighton pier offers rides and attractions for all the family to enjoy including fan favourites, the teacups and the waltz. Kids enjoy heading to the sweetshop on the pier and purchasing their Brighton souvenir in the form of Brighton Rock – a stick-shaped boiled sugar sweet famous in the UK’s seaside towns.

Opposite the pier is the world’s oldest aquarium, the Sea Life Centre, filled with an array of underwater creatures. Below the pier and along the seafront are plenty of options to delight beachgoers. If you head East, you’ll have a more relaxing walk along the coast, however, there are still bars and ice cream stalls to stop off at, a zip line if you’re brave enough and a beach volleyball club, Yellowave, at the end. If you head West, you’ll find the ever-changing restaurant and bars along the waterfront so if you frequent Brighton often, you’ll be sure to find something new. During the summer, the West side of the pier has plenty of live music coming from the seafront bars, along with many street performers.

Slightly further along towards the West you will notice the British Airways i360 tower. The tower was built in 2016 to showcase the city from a height. The trip takes around 25 minutes lifting the observation pod up 450ft to see a birds eye view of the city and the shoreline. Some amazing views can be seen from the top with a few buildings having decorated their roofs for visitors.

With so much available on and around Brighton’s seafront, it is easy to see why this is such a popular place to visit and enjoy a family holiday.

Brighton Laines

Another of Brighton’s famous attractions that should never be missed are The Brighton Laines, divided into the North and South Laines.

The North Laines

As you meander your way through the narrow streets you will notice that the North laines are bright, effervescent and quirky. There is an eclectic mix of boutiques selling clothing, antiques and vintage goods, restaurants, known for providing vegan/vegetarian staples and a number of great pubs scattered along the way. During the summer months, the restaurants bring their tables outside into the street for a fun but busy dining experience!

In the evenings, the Krater Comedy Club provides guests with plenty of entertainment with stand-up comedy and live music to enjoy – we highly recommend a visit if you have a free evening!

The South Laines

The South Lanes are more discreet in their appearance and more maze like in their location. They comprise a number of antique jewellery shops, quaint tea rooms and excellent restaurants gathered along the winding alleyways.

The atmosphere is quieter amongst the South Lanes and visitors can easily get lost with all the twists, turns and tunnels that delight passers-by. The South Lanes is just a few steps away from the beachfront and Brighton Pier. It is definitely worth the scenic walk through the South Lanes if you are making your way to Brighton’s seafront.

Foodie at heart? We’d recommend eating fresh fish from Riddle & Finns, the delicious sustainable dining from The Flint House or visiting a vegetarian institution like Terre a Terre.

The Royal Pavilion

If you walk East from the South Lanes, you will eventually come across the Royal Pavilion.

Originally built as a pleasure palace for King George IV, the Royal Pavilion is now a famous Landmark in Brighton’s City Centre. The palace was built in 1780 and was extended in 1815 to the Royal Pavilion that stands today. It passed down through a number of Royals and was eventually sold by Queen Victoria to the City of Brighton in 1850 for £50,000.

There have been a number of setbacks in the restoration of the building throughout the years which will inevitably continue, however, the City of Brighton has worked hard to restore the building to the original grandeur envisioned by King George IV back in the 1800’s.

The building is now a popular tourist attraction where visitors can walk through a number of rooms, including the royal bedrooms, the grand kitchen and the banqueting rooms.

South Downs

Not only does Brighton have inner city beauty, but its outskirts are also just as picturesque.

The South Downs National Park is just a short distance from the city centre and a great place to go and wander around particularly if you are staying at a pet-friendly property and they need to play! Visitors to Brighton can get to the downs quickly and explore east or west along the rolling hills. When it is a good weather day, it is common for people to pitch up for an afternoon picnic at the top of Devils Dyke and enjoy the unobstructed views of this city’s natural landscape. On clearer nights, you can head up as the sun starts to set and witness some phenomenal views as the sun lowers and glows over in the West.

Accessibility to London

As noted earlier, Brighton is just a short train ride away from London so for those guests staying for a longer trip, why not make a day trip to London to see the big city? In fact, our holiday let, The Preston, is located just 2 minutes away from Preston Park station and just an hour away from London!

Brighton is packed full of things to see and do and will certainly keep you busy on a trip to this bustling seaside city. Whatever you have planned, we are here to help you and make sure your holiday in Brighton is the best it can be.

Need a place to stay in Brighton?

Whether you are searching for the perfect getaway property in Brighton or wish to enquire about our holiday home management services, give us a call today!

When you think of an estate, you’re likely to picture an impressively large home, surrounded by fields upon fields of beautiful countryside. A tranquil and peaceful place, typically only available to the public to view from a distance. Usually, you would be right, but not when talking about Goodwood Estate. Goodwood Estate is very different and in the best way possible. 

Goodwood House

Goodwood House dates back to 1697 when it was bought by the first Duke of Richmond.  Since then it has been through numerous structural changes and ownership and now boasts one of the most exciting summer event calendars on the South Coast. For a day at Goodwood, you can play golf, go clay shooting, learn to fly, ride your car on the track or just relax in the spa for an afternoon. There are dining options available throughout, with many farm-to-table options, and an afternoon tea with a tour for those interested in exploring Goodwood House on the inside. 

But what Goodwood is most famous for, and why the vast majority of people visit, is for their summer events – horse racing and car racing. 

Goodwood Racecourse

Goodwood Racecourse sits in the South Downs, neighbouring the city of Chichester. In the Summer, the racecourse hosts a number of events, most notably ‘Glorious Goodwood’ an event that runs over 5 days in late July. On a bright summer day, this is one of the best racecourse events in the UK with jockeys from around the world, battling it out on the racecourse to reach the top spot with their expert horses. Visitors can expect 5 days packed with excitement from Sussex Stakes Day to the glamorous Ladies Day.

Racetrack

In addition to horse racing, Goodwood offers events for car enthusiasts, from speed seekers to vintage car admirers, or both! Goodwood racetrack offers both the Festival of Speed and the Goodwood Revival.

Festival of Speed

The Festival of Speed is what Goodwood terms the ‘ultimate motorsport garden party’, with four days of motorsport events from race car drivers and car manufacturers from around the world. Formula 1 supercars from Ferrari, Mercedes, Red Bull and Renault set the racecourse alight, with pre-war car races, NASCAR rallies and bike battles gracing the tracks over the 4-day festival of speed event. It is one of the greatest events in motorsport, all available to the public in the county we call home, West Sussex.

The Revival

Goodwood Revival differs from its speed-fueled counterpart and celebrates the history of motorcars and motorsport. This event has a dress code, that of the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s, allowing the perfect opportunity for some fancy dress in the sunshine.

There are three days of motorsport during the revival, with Sunday culminating in the most renowned events including the Whitsun Trophy, the fastest event of the weekend and the Royal Automobile TT Celebration Race. 

Off the tracks

Off the racecourse and the racetrack, there are plenty of places to take bets on the races, grab drinks in the sunshine or find a bite to eat from one of the food trucks. For those with kids, the family race day provides free entry to those under 18 and fairground rides for some family-friendly activities.

There is plenty to see and do in Goodwood and it is easy to see why this is such a popular place to visit year-round, and particularly during the summer months.

Need a place to stay in Goodwood?

Do you need property management services for your Goodwood holiday let? Or do you need to find a place to stay nearby to explore? We can help with both!

For accommodation options, we have holiday lets in both Chichester and Arundel, each only a short drive from Goodwood. Give us a call and find out which suits you best!

Brighton & Hove is a city of two halves which were joined as one in 2000 when they gained city status. Hove has an identity of its own, however, and is often considered quieter and more refined than its busier Brighton half which entertains more seaside revellers and party weekenders. 

Whether you’re staying in Hove for a luxurious seaside weekend, a romantic special occasion celebration, or taking your family away for a cultural city break; Hove has something for every age and personality. 

History

For centuries, Hove was just one road forming a tiny fishing village rising up from the sea to the western end of Church Road – now Old Hove Conservation Area. It was only during the early 19^th Century that expansion occurred in response to the development of neighbouring Brighton which saw the grand squares and terraces of Brunswick Town being built, forever changing the landscape. The glorious gardens and squares of Palmeira and Adelaide were to follow with The Avenues finally joining the two halves of Brighton & Hove during the Victorian era.

The arrival of the London to Brighton trainline in 1846 saw the mass influx of holiday makers and residents to the city, and by 1865, Hove had a station of its own. This instigated a huge building boom which closed the gap between Brighton and Hove to include holiday lodgings, residential homes, theatres and shops which give Hove its unique identity. 

What to eat in Hove

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to fine dining in Hove. There are several Michelin Guide recommended restaurants between Palmeira Square and New Church Road alone, which are peppered with independent foodie havens and glamorous wine bars. If you’re after a more relaxed vibe, there are plenty of proper gastro pubs too, and you never need to look too far for Fish & Chips in this coastal city – so there really is something for everyone. Here are our favourite places:

etch. By Steven Edwards

etch. is MasterChef: The Professionals winner Steven Edwards’ flagship restaurant located on Church Road. etch. has a modern look with views of an open kitchen where the chefs create and serve exquisite small plates for their tasting menu. Their philosophy is to celebrate local and British produce to deliver ambitious dishes with bold flavours and intriguing textures; their signature is marmite brioche. The wine list also offers a good selection from Sussex. With 3AA rosettes and a Michelin Plate, etch. has a waiting list, so definitely try to book well in advance of your visit. It is also only open Wed-Sun with dinner reservations Fri-Sat only. 

The Ginger Pig

Listed as one of the Top 10 Pubs in the UK by GQ, The Ginger Pig on Hove Street (2 mins from etch.) serve traditional food sourced from Sussex’s finest suppliers. Their well-executed, original dishes draw flavours from far and wide, including Europe, Asia and North Africa. Menus are updated regularly offering fresh inspiration and seasonality. They also serve a separate bar snack menu and mix seriously good cocktails – plus they are dog friendly! The Ginger Pig is the epitome of ‘gastro pub’ serving restaurant quality food and drinks in a relaxed and homely environment with friendly service. 

Franco’s Osteria

This small independent restaurant stays true to the Italian tradition of keeping things simple and focusing on quality ingredients prepared well. Franco’s is all about the soul of Italian cuisine. Whether it be pasta or Northern Italian pizza, you will be able to taste the passion and love that has gone into every dish. The rustic interior remains true to the traditional Osteria’s of the owner’s homeland, with chunky wooden tables and exposed brickwork. It is all about the atmosphere and intimacy that you can only find in small restaurants, where you have direct interaction with the owners. If you are looking for an authentic Italian experience, that is not going to break the bank, then a visit to Franco’s is a must during your stay!

Paris Wine Bar

Established in 2011 by two International wine connoisseurs, Paris Wine Bar has become an integral part of the Hove scene. They offer a huge variety of wines and champagnes, alongside a stunning cocktail menu and an array of beers and spirits to suit all tastes. 

Inside, it feels homely with traditional oak beams and stylish brickwork off-set with brass and copper adornments. The bar area is lined by classic Chesterfield seating and parades of vintage wine, submerged in ambient lighting and soft music transporting you to another era altogether. French doors open to the Italian-inspired heated garden with intimate tables for two or family tables for four, offering a warm snug in winter or space for sunlit drinks alfresco during the summer. 

Marrocco’s 

Unassuming and rustic, it is only the vast queues lining Hove Promenade which give an insight into the fine quality faire you receive in Marrocco’s café and restaurant. The coffee and gelato are as authentically Italian as you can get having been part of the Hove Seafront scene since Italian founders Rennato and Maria Marrocco opened in 1969. As a family-run business, their children and grandchildren now run the restaurant to include a fine dining seafood menu of lobster, seabass and fruitti de mare platters. 

What to do in Hove

Green Spaces

Echoing the green of Hove Lawns, the Regency homes of Brunswick Town were built encircling beautiful gardens which were intended for private use of the residents only. Thankfully the gardens within Adelaide Crescent, Palmeira Square and Brunswick Square are now open to the public; bringing a touch of the countryside to the coast. Picnics can be enjoyed during the spring and summer months when they are often more peaceful than the beach. Brunswick Square hosts a two-weekend community festival during August with live music, food stalls and a children’s parade, and is one of the longest running festivals in the city enjoying its 40^th year in 2021.

A hidden gem, just a few minutes north from Hove Station is Hove Park covering 40 acres with immaculate lawns, mature trees and a 2km running path on its perimeter. Popular with families, dog walkers and fitness fans alike, there are tennis courts, a well-equipped children’s play area, a community café offering delicious bites, and there are several outdoor fitness classes running every day of the week. Acknowledging the Engineerium which stands overlooking the park, there is also a miniature railway which runs for 2000ft along the park’s edge and is open from March-October for children to ride. 

Shopping in Hove

Hove is abundant with boutique and independent retailers looking to put some creative flair into your shopping experience. At the western end of Western Road and throughout Church Road, you’ll find gorgeous fashions, bespoke interiors and designers tempting you inside with evocative window displays. 

George Street also offers a wide variety of independent shops and is pedestrianised so you can potter in peace and sit outside at one of the many cafes for refreshments. 

Music and Entertainment

Brighton & Hove has long been heralded as the city of arts and culture, with its showcase in the Brighton Festival and Brighton Fringe which have been running throughout May since 1967. It is the largest and most established multi-arts festival in England, and is a celebration of music, theatre, dance, circus, art, film, literature, debate, outdoor and family events, which takes place in both familiar and unusual venues throughout the city including The Old Market Theatre in Brunswick Town. Hove Lawns also host circus acts, Foodie Festivals and theatre performances, while the Artist’s Open Houses have several trails throughout Hove. 

In its wake, many more festivals were born to celebrate Brighton & Hove’s unique culture and character, including Brighton Digital Festival and The Great Escape for music, and Brighton Pride – whose colourful parade starts on the Hove Lawns, to celebrate diversity and equality.

For big-name music events look no further than Hove Country Cricket Ground which has been host to Lionel Ritchie and Elton John in recent years and has the biggest and best firework display on November 5^th each year. 

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Worthing Town is the quieter little sister to Brighton & Hove which sits just 12-miles along the coast to the east.

Worthing has undergone a huge amount of regeneration in recent years as the ‘Down-from-Londons’ realised what a special place it was, making it one of the top ten property hotspots in the country. This in turn has attracted businesses, holiday makers and day-trippers to the town, looking to see what all the fuss is about.

Long gone are the 70s seaside attractions. In their place is a glorious palm-fringed coastline awash with pop-up bars, woodfired pizza vans, coffee stands and a wealth of restaurants with rave reviews. The Regency and Deco architecture lining the prom is stunning and the beaches are free from swaggering hen and stag parties, so they are beautifully clean. Worthing Pier has returned to its former glory with its Art Deco Pavilion now housing a new restaurant hosting live music and comedy events and the town now has its own Arts, Foodie and Pride Festivals to be enjoyed throughout spring and summer.

History

For centuries, Worthing was a quaint agricultural and fishing hamlet with fewer than 500 residents. Following in the wake of Brighton’s popularity as a spa resort during the early 18^th Century, people were encouraged to visit towns on the coast for sea cures – the act of sea-swimming to cure all ills! By 1796 it had many good lodging houses, three hotels, and many fashionable visitors.

In particular, it was Royal patronage which led wealthy travellers to follow in their famous footsteps, favouring a more retired bathing space than Brighton, and bringing with them money, business and colour to the town. The extension of the trainline from Shoreham to Worthing in 1945 made it easier for visitors to access the town – and Worthing as a ‘seaside holiday destination’ was born.

200-years later, a similar rejuvenation has occurred as soaring house prices and over-crowding in the capital and coastal cities has led to people making the move to sunny Worthing. With an abundance of fresh air, clean streets and a creative and welcoming community – maybe you’ll feel the same way after a week’s holiday here!

Food & Drink

While there have always been some hidden gems in Worthing Town, it has more recently become a hub for health-conscious cafes, contemporary bistros and gastropubs. Along the seafront, there are several pop-up vans offering woodfired pizza, tacos, fish & chips, cocktails and freshly made doughnuts – to name but a few, and the seaside location has inspired some seriously good seafood restaurants. Further into town, but all within easy walking distance of one another, there are several restaurants, wine bars and cafes to suit all tastes and budgets; be that a vegan kebab, a bao bun or a foam topped soufflé.

Here are our top Worthing places to eat:

1. Pitch and Bayside Social

Pitch is MasterChef winner Kenny Tutt’s flagship restaurant located on Warwick Street in Worthing Town Centre. Pitch offers a contemporary mix of modern and classic British food, wines and cocktails, paying homage to the great produce found in the surrounding local area. The restaurant is styled as a workshop, with diners greeted by surfaces full of fresh herbs and botanicals ready to be picked and incorporated into Kenny’s dishes. An example three-course menu includes whipped goats’ cheese, toasted hazelnut and thyme jam doughnuts. Sussex ham hock with shirred eggs, chips and gooseberry chutney. And a dessert of cereal pannacotta with peanut butter, chocolate pretzel crackle & chocolate yoghurt sorbet.

Bayside Social is Pitch’s sister restaurant positioned along Worthing Seafront offering 180-degree views along Worthing’s coastline. Guests are welcomed into a relaxed beachfront setting with a laid-back ambience. A variety of choices are available including a seasonal changing menu, nourishing takeaway, indoor/outdoor dining, breakfast & brunch options, as well as fantastic cocktails.

2. The Crabshack

The Crabshack is a family owned and run seafood restaurant and beach bar with a large terrace overlooking the sea. Their philosophy is to provide the freshest local fish and seafood alongside fabulous drinks with fantastic service. Their menu is small as everything is freshly prepared and cooked to order in their kitchen. They believe passionately in honest, simple flavours and letting the amazing ingredients do the talking whilst giving great value for money. Crabshack are dog and children-friendly, as long as they are well behaved! You can soak up the sun on the deck outside or shelter from the storm and stay warm and cosy inside. Laid back, relaxed and unpretentious, you can either have a three-course meal or just stop by for a snack, beer, cocktail, or glass of wine from their small but interesting wine list.

3. Perch on The Pier

Perch on the Pier is a stylish eatery with panoramic views of the sea situated at the end of Worthing’s Art Deco Pier, delivering delicious meals from breakfast through to lunch, including a quality selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes. They also offer pick-and-mix dishes so you can create your perfect plate to suit your dietary requirements and tastes, plus there is a wide selection of kids’ dishes, burgers, mussels, grills and traditional seaside fayre.

Dogs are welcome as long as they keep their paws on the floor, and while it is preferable to book – particularly at weekends, they do keep a proportion of tables for walk-ins on a first-come, first serve basis.

4. Finch

Finch opened for business in 2018 with one goal in mind: providing a tasty, enjoyable dining experience. They provide a fresh variety of dishes from breakfast all the way through to dinner – but they are renowned for their breakfasts and brunches offering beautiful ingredients and a variety of options to suit all. Smashed avocado on sourdough with grilled halloumi, or a full English fry up can be washed down with hangover-cure juices and smoothies and the most delicious coffee.

5. The Grape

Located in the heart of Worthing’s famous Warwick Street, The Grape is a small, family-run wine bar that serves a large variety of hand-picked white, red, rosè, and sparkling wines alongside a hearty food menu comprising of full-flavoured Spanish tapas. During the warmer weather you can sit out on the terrace watching the world go by, then in winter the Deco interior is warm and homely with dark walls, natural woods and wall festooned with quality wines in tall racks. With 5* reviews on Tripadvisor, The Grape is definitely with a visit.

6. Yamu Yamu

Yamu Yamu sits in the West End of Worthing offering contemporary small plates of Japanese street food alongside craft beers, locally brewed coffee and incredible cocktails. Try everything from tofu bao buns, to teriyaki salmon, or their famous filthy fries with an Asian twist! Reasonable prices, friendly and attentive staff and a relaxed atmosphere ensure Yamu Yamu has put itself firmly on the map of ‘must visit’ places in Worthing.

Exploring

Theatre and Cinema

Find brilliant performances within the genres of dance, comedy, theatre and music at both the Pavilion Theatre or the Connaught Theatre in Worthing. From big-name performers to local artists and musicians, there are events for all ages and interests to be found throughout the year. Creative seasonal workshops for families and children include storytelling, weaving, hat making and sculpture – to name but a few, and there are specialist talks held within the theatre museum.

For a night out at the movies there are two beautiful cinemas: The Dome Cinema and the Connaught Cinema – both within a few minutes of the Town Centre. The Dome is a stunning Edwardian cinema which first opened in April 1911 and has been fully restored to its former glory. There are three screens, including the opulent main auditorium, seating 500, the more intimate Screen 2, with newly refurbished Premier seating, and the new Screen 3, with 41 seats (including some double seats) and wall-to-wall picture.

The Connaught Cinema is a streamlined Moderne-style theatre and cinema which was built as the Picturedrome cinema in 1914. They offer the best in art-house, documentaries and foreign cinema alongside the best blockbusters and screenings of classic films from the archives.

Countryside and Beach

Worthing is brilliantly positioned within Sussex as it is bordered by the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park to the north and some of the most beautiful coastline to the south. These spaces offer the perfect escape for longs walks with Cissbury & Chanctonbury Rings giving the most incredible viewpoints across the entire county. You can jump on a bus from the town centre (number 23) or there are several clearly marked car parks if you are driving. For history and nature lovers you can book archaeology walks on Chanctonbury Ring via the wtm.uk website.

For beach lovers, the tide in Worthing goes out for miles revealing rockpools and swathes of sand so you can walk from Lancing to Goring Gap barefoot. There are ‘Beat the Tide’ 5km and 10km races held in July and the Park Run and Worthing Marathons also take you along the coast. Sunsets are beautiful and there are several cafes offering homemade cakes, coffees and dog treats along the route.

For those brave enough, you will find groups of sea-swimmers taking to the water at mid-tide throughout the year with ‘sea-cures’ making a comeback 200-years after they were first discovered!

Arts and Festivals

Following in the steps of Brighton & Hove, Worthing has gained a reputation as a town known for its arts and culture with festivals held throughout the spring and summer to celebrate food, beer, music, theatre, dance, circus, art, film, literature, debate, outdoor and family events – tickets can be found on the Eventbrite website.

At Christmas time, Steyne Gardens are transformed into an ice rink while in summer Worthing Pride is held between the gardens and Marine Parade on Worthing’s seafront to celebrate the great diversity of the LGBTQI+ community. The festival includes a fabulous lineup of amazing artists and local stallholders offering a great selection of delicious food.

Ready to book your holiday rental?
Book directly with Simple Getaway and save unnecessary fees on Airbnb and VRBO, we offer the cheapest rate every time, guaranteed!

The past year (20/21) has put a real strain on global travel. Particularly if you live in the UK, travel has been limited even within the country, let alone anywhere abroad. We are all eager to get out and now that the world is starting to ease up a little with the vaccine programme success, people are finally looking forward to some travel. We have been asked several times recently whether someone could rent their property out, even if it is just for a couple of months.

The short answer is yes! Websites like Airbnb, VRBO and Booking.com have made it increasingly easy to rent out your home and be flexible with the dates. Even if you just want to rent your house for a specific day of the year, that is absolutely fine. Now you’ve made that decision, the next most important thing is whether you are going to look after that yourself, or whether you would like a management company to take care of it. This blog will assume that you want to manage it yourself, but if you want to enjoy your time away without any hassle, you might want to consider asking a management company to take care of it. That is what we do at Simple Getaway, if you would like to speak to us, then contact us here.

What next? Here’s our list of things you need to start thinking about.

1. Decision time – decide when, and for how long you want to list your property. Once you’ve made the decision to rent your house and you receive bookings, you will be penalised if you change your mind and cancel those bookings. Therefore, you need to make sure you are completely sure and comfortable with renting your home during those periods.
2. Get rental ready – you will want to get your house ready to photograph. We would recommend removing anything that you do not want to make available to the guests and store in a cupboard or locked room. Clothes, jewellery, sentimental items and personal things should be in this category.
3. Photo time – Once you’ve removed anything you do not want to have in the listing, it is time for photos. Make sure the house is clean, windows are clean, beds are made, pillows fluffed etc! Either hire a photographer or take them yourself, if you choose the latter, make sure you take good quality imagery. Hold the camera lower than your eye level, avoid any special effects (fish eye, wide angle etc) and make sure you get a shot of each room and the outside if available.
4. List your property – choose where you want to list. Just a room? Probably just go with Airbnb. A larger property, try Airbnb and VRBO. Each site charges different fees so make sure you choose something you are comfortable with. If you list on both sites, make sure you share calendars to avoid a double booking.
5. Respond to inquiries – you may receive inquiries straight away or it may take some time. Don’t panic either way! Make sure you respond to inquiries as quickly as you can, that way you will attract a guest before they inquire elsewhere. Make sure you are friendly in your responses and try to be as helpful as you can when guests have questions.
6. Get ready for the booking
   1. Keys – if you are not going to be there when the guests arrive, you need to make sure they can get access to your home. Do you have a smart lock? A key safe? Key in a safe spot? Neighbour to hold the key? Whatever it is, you need to make sure your guests know with plenty of notice. We would recommend you have a smart lock or a key safe to make the process as easy and secure as possible. Don’t leave your key under the mat..!
   2. Guidebook – it is a good idea to leave some information about the house, wifi codes, heating instructions, rubbish collection etc. Provide a guide book or notes on how to use certain items. Even better, provide them with local recommendations of things to do, places to eat etc..
   3. Contractors – get some local contractors on standby in case something goes wrong. Plumbers, electricians, handymen, locksmiths and cleaners are all useful contractors to have in your phonebook.
7. Guests arrive – your guests may have a seamless experience and not need to contact you at all, but, if they do, you need to make sure you are available to deal with their questions or issues. Make sure wherever you are has a wifi connection or mobile reception so you are equipped to answer any calls/emails.
8. Guests leave – depending upon how you’ve listed your property for rent, you may just have a single group staying, or you may have multiple. If you have multiple groups then your cleaners need to be prepared for the changeover days. Make sure they let you know what condition the house was left in so that you can review the guests accordingly. If you have people checking out and others checking in on the same day, you’ll need to have a spare set of sheets as it is unlikely the cleaners would get them washed and dried in time, particularly in a large property.
9. Complete – Receive the income on the stay and make sure the house is ready for the next arrival, or for your return.

It can be a lot of work getting your house ready to rent but it can be rewarding to receive income for your property when you aren’t using it yourself. The key point is to make sure you are prepared for your guests arrival and be available throughout their stay should they need assistance.

If you have read this blog and think you want to rent but don’t want the hassle, give us a call and we can help. Contact us today.