Things To Do
in Rustington
Rustington is a coastal village in West Sussex, England, just between Worthing and Littlehampton. It combines a relaxed seaside vibe with a traditional English village center offering independent shops and cafés. The long shingle beach and promenade are perfect for walks, fishing, and sunset strolls.
With easy access to the South Downs, it's a great base for nature, history, and family-friendly days by the sea.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the St. Mary’s Church, a beautiful 12th-century building that showcases stunning Gothic architecture. After soaking in the history, stroll through the quaint streets of Rustington, admiring the charming cottages and local shops. Grab a warm pastry from a nearby bakery to fuel your exploration.
In the afternoon, head to the Rustington Museum to learn about the local history and culture, with exhibits that reflect the village's evolution. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a cozy café, where you can sample local delicacies while watching the world go by. After lunch, take a walk through the nearby Rustington Park, where you can relax by the pond or enjoy the manicured gardens.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at a traditional pub, where you can savor classic British dishes like fish and chips. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the coast, enjoying the serene sounds of the waves lapping against the shore. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the friendly atmosphere.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk along the sandy shores of Rustington Beach, taking in the fresh sea air and beautiful coastal views. Rent a paddleboard or kayak for a fun morning on the water, where you can explore the coastline from a different perspective. Enjoy a light breakfast at one of the beachside cafés, where you can sip coffee while watching the waves.
In the afternoon, continue your beach adventure by trying your hand at windsurfing or joining a guided snorkeling tour to discover the underwater life. Afterward, relax on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying a picnic lunch with friends or family. If you're feeling adventurous, take a stroll to the nearby fishing village of Littlehampton for some local seafood.
As dusk approaches, find a picturesque spot along the beach to watch the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors. Afterward, head to a seaside restaurant for a dinner featuring freshly caught fish and other local specialties. Wind down your evening with a leisurely walk along the promenade, enjoying the gentle ocean breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Lunch for two in a mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| 🛏️Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $70-150 |
| 🛒Groceries per week (one person) | $40-70 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per liter) | $1.90-2.40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming coastal village with easy access to South Downs
- Relaxed pace, great for families and couples
- Good value compared to larger southern England towns
- Strong local produce and seafood scene
- Limited nightlife options within the village itself
- Smaller transit hub; some attractions require car or rail to nearby towns
- Can be crowded at peak summer weekends
- Weather can be changeable despite overall mild climate
Places to Visit in Rustington
Visit one of these nice places.
Stretch of sea views with a long promenade, ideal for sunrise and golden-hour photography.
Open parkland and woodland with grazing deer and wide skies.
Coastal dawn light over shingle beach and dunes, perfect for silhouettes.
Ridge and valley views where fields meet the sea on clear days.
Food in Rustington
Rustington Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional steamed pudding with a lemony sauce, often served warm with custard.
Must-Try!
Freshly fried fish with thick-cut chips and mushy peas, a seaside staple.
Scones with clotted cream and jam, enjoyed with a pot of tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market near the coast offering local produce, snacks, and crafts.
A larger market a short drive away, with fresh produce and street food stalls.
Monthly market featuring local bakers and growers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British etiquette of orderly lines; wait your turn in shops and at bus stops.
Use polite language, say please and thank you; modest exchanges are common.
Stand or sit at tables; wait to be seated in popular pubs; avoid loud interruptions.
Stay aware of tides and lifeguarded areas; follow local signage on beaches.
Safety
Tipping in Rustington
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10-15% in sit-down restaurants if service is not included.
Cash and card are widely accepted; contactless payments common; tips often added at the end of the meal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, warm breezes, and peak beach crowds. Expect busier coastal towns and more outdoor events; bring sunscreen and water.
Milder temperatures with colorful foliage and migrating birds along the coast; enjoy calmer beach walks and harvest markets.
Cooler, wetter weather with occasional coastal winds; shorter days and fewer crowds but festive events in nearby towns.
Blooming countryside and green landscapes; comfortable temperatures for coastal walks and gardens.
Rustington at Night
Hiking in Rustington
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive trails through woodland and open heath with wildlife views.
A segment of the national trail with rolling downs and sea glimpses.
Coastal paths along Climping Beach offering sea and marsh views.
Airports
How to reach Rustington by plane.
Major international airport about 40-60 miles from Rustington; accessible by train or car via the A23 and A27 corridors.
Large international hub around 70-90 miles away; reachable by car or rail with transfer to Worthing/Littlehampton.
Smaller regional airport about 60-90 miles away; services domestic and some European routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families choose Rustington for beaches, schools, and parks.
The area attracts retirees drawn to the relaxed seaside lifestyle.
Some residents work in nearby towns; good transport links to larger job markets.
The coast sees visitors especially in summer and around holidays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at local clubs and in parks; widely played by adults and youth.
Nearby courses along the coast and in Worthing/Littlehampton area.
Seasonal matches in local parks and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rustington.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pubs and cafés offer vegetarian options such as veggie burgers, salads, and seasonal vegetable dishes. If in doubt, ask for chef recommendations or check plant-based menus.