Things To Do
in Littlehampton
Littlehampton is a charming seaside town on England's south coast in West Sussex, where the River Arun meets the English Channel. It features a long seafront with East Beach and West Beach, a lively harbour area, and a family-friendly promenade. The town offers a compact center with shops, cafés, and easy access to the South Downs for quick escapes into nature.
Visitors come for sea air, gentle coastal walks, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that suits families and day-trippers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Littlehampton and stroll along the pebbled beach to feel the fresh sea breeze. Marvel at the colourful beach huts and watch fishermen launching boats into the sparkling water. Grab a takeaway coffee from a local café and settle on the shore to take in the panoramic views.
Rent a deckchair or kayak and explore the gentle waves of the English Channel at your own pace. Wander along the East Beach promenade, admiring the modernist wooden Sound Mirrors and public art installations. Stop at a beachside snack stand for fish and chips or a traditional ice cream cone.
Savor a seaside dinner at a harbour-front restaurant, sampling local seafood specialties like fresh mussels or plaice. As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely stroll across the Colonnade Pier and photograph the golden horizon. End the night with a relaxing pint at a cosy pub overlooking the water.
Begin with a guided walking tour of Littlehampton Harbour and learn about its maritime heritage from centuries past. Pause at the Fishermen’s Quay to watch boats unloading the day’s catch and chat with local fishmongers. Capture photos of the busy dockside and the Victorian-style harbour architecture.
Board a river cruise along the River Arun for a tranquil journey through the surrounding marshlands. Spot elegant swans, migrating birds, and lush reed beds while the skipper shares anecdotes about the river’s history. Disembark at a quaint jetty for a riverside picnic under swaying willow trees.
Return to the harbour and dine at a seafood bistro with outdoor tables overlooking the water. Sample a seafood platter paired with a crisp local white wine as lights twinkle on the water’s surface. Conclude the evening with a gentle moonlit stroll along the riverbank.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-90 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per liter) | $1.9/L |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range, per night) | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Family-friendly beaches and safe coastal walks
- Close to the South Downs and easy day trips to Arundel and Chichester
- Can feel busy on sunny weekends and holidays
- Limited high-end nightlife compared to larger cities
Places to Visit in Littlehampton
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft light over the long shingle beach with pastel skies and gentle waves.
Golden reflections on the river, boats, and the lifeboat station as lights come on.
Wide sandy stretch with rolling dunes and expansive sea views—great for wide-angle shots.
Ancient yew forest and woodland paths offering dramatic textures and light.
Architectural silhouette and riverside scenery ideal for landscape photography.
Food in Littlehampton
Littlehampton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic seaside staple enjoyed hot and crispy at a local chippy near the harbour.
Must-Try!
Traditional warm sponge pudding with a lemony sauce, a nod to the county’s culinary heritage.
Scones with clotted cream and jam, served with tea at many coastal cafés.
Assorted local catches served at harbour-side restaurants for a shareable meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal street-food stalls and fish-by-the-sea snacks along the promenade.
Occasional market days offering fresh produce, crafts, and baked goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British queues are respected; wait your turn and be courteous in crowded spaces.
Tipping is optional and depends on service quality; rounds at the till are common in some places.
Keep noise reasonable in residential areas and be mindful of closures and local notices.
Safety
Tipping in Littlehampton
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10-15% is customary if service isn’t included. In pubs it’s less common but appreciated for good service.
Cards (including contactless) and mobile payments are widely accepted; cash is still useful in smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days, longer daylight hours, and busy beaches. Bring sun protection and water, and expect crowds on weekends.
Quieter seafronts with moody light and migrating birds along the coast. Great for walks and photography.
Cool, damp, and occasionally windy with possible storms. Coastal walks can be dramatic but dress warmly and check tides.
Blooms along the downs and coastal paths; a comfortable time for longer walks and day trips.
Littlehampton at Night
Hiking in Littlehampton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal-to-rural trail section offering rolling hills, downs scenery, and long-distance hiking potential.
Ancient yew forest with woodland paths and elevated viewpoints over the plains.
Riverside walks and meadow landscapes ideal for birdwatching and relaxed day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Littlehampton by plane.
Major international hub about 60-70 miles from Littlehampton; connected by car and rail via London routes.
Large international airport roughly 75-90 miles away; accessible by road and rail with transfers.
Smaller regional airport approx. 40-50 miles away; convenient for short-haul flights and UK connections.
Coastal airport around 60-70 miles away; options for domestic and European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for the beaches, parks, and seaside-friendly facilities.
Calmer pace and scenic coastal living attract retirees seeking a relaxed lifestyle.
Nearby towns and urban areas drive weekend tourism and local cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Harbour and coast provide opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Local clubs and matches connect community recreation with regional leagues.
Nearby courses along the coast and downs offer scenic rounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Littlehampton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian options; ask for meat-free dishes or salads.
Vegan options are increasingly available; look for plant-based dishes or request dairy-free substitutions.
Many pubs and restaurants can accommodate with gluten-free bread or pasta; confirm cross-contamination if needed.