Things To Do
in Worthing
Worthing is a seaside town in West Sussex on England's south coast. It blends Victorian seaside charm with a growing arts and dining scene. The long promenade, pier, and green spaces along the seafront create a relaxed, walker-friendly atmosphere.
With easy access to the South Downs and nearby towns like Brighton and Chichester, Worthing makes for varied day trips year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a peaceful walk along Worthing's iconic beachfront, soaking in the fresh sea air and panoramic views of the English Channel. Stop by the charming Worthing Pier to admire its classic Victorian architecture and watch local fishermen at work. Grab a coffee from a nearby café and enjoy it while sitting on a bench overlooking the waves.
Head to the Worthing Museum and Art Gallery to explore fascinating exhibits covering local history, art, and natural sciences. Afterward, wander through the nearby parks, such as Homefield Park, where you can relax amidst lush greenery and colorful flowerbeds. Treat yourself to a light lunch at one of the quaint bistros lining the town center.
Return to the seafront for a leisurely dinner at a seafood restaurant, savoring freshly caught fish and local specialties. As the sun sets, take a romantic stroll along the illuminated pier, enjoying the gentle sound of the waves crashing below. End your evening with a visit to a cozy pub featuring live music and a friendly atmosphere.
Start your day with a visit to the Worthing Theatre, where you can admire the historic building and possibly catch a morning rehearsal or exhibition. Explore the Worthing Artisan Market, engaging with local craftsmen and discovering unique handmade goods and artworks. Enjoy freshly baked pastries and locally roasted coffee from market vendors.
Spend your afternoon at Highdown Gardens, a beautifully landscaped site boasting exotic plants and stunning views over the coastline. Explore the nearby Hill Barn Museum to delve deeper into Worthing’s agricultural and rural heritage. Take a break at the garden’s tea room, sampling homemade cakes and teas while enjoying the serene surroundings.
Dine at a contemporary restaurant in the town center, where seasonal British ingredients are elevated with creative flair. After dinner, enjoy a performance or a film screening at Worthing’s Pavilion Theatre, known for its eclectic programming. Alternatively, take a moonlit walk along the promenade, listening to the soothing rhythm of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay | $70-130 |
| 🚆Local transit ticket | $2-4 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed seaside charm with easy access to the South Downs.
- Walkable seafront and family-friendly attractions.
- Seasonal crowds on peak summer days.
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to larger cities.
Places to Visit in Worthing
Visit one of these nice places.
A long Victorian pier with arches, iconic railings, and views along the coast, ideal for sunset shots.
Wide sandy and pebbled stretches with soft morning light and pastel skies over the sea.
Ancient hill fort on the South Downs with sweeping views of the downs and the coastline.
Terraced botanical gardens offering colorful plantings and sea-facing vistas.
Elegant Regency-era houses and elegant façades along the Worthing seafront.
Food in Worthing
Worthing Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A seaside staple of battered cod or haddock with chips and mushy peas; best enjoyed in a seaside chippy along the seafront.
Must-Try!
Scones with clotted cream and jam, served with tea in a cozy cafe.
Fresh local fish prepared with seasonal greens and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, cheeses, bakery items, and occasional street-food stalls.
Seasonal weekend stalls along the promenade with fish bites, burgers, and desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in line in public places and queue patiently; speak quietly on public transport and in cafes.
Give space on pavements and avoid loud behavior near residential areas or the elderly.
Dispose of litter and keep noise to a reasonable level, especially in parks and late at night.
Safety
Tipping in Worthing
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; 10-15% in restaurants if service charge isn’t included; rounding up at pubs or cafes is common but not required.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still common in smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with sunshine and sea breezes; expect crowds along the seafront; stay hydrated and wear sunscreen; many events and outdoor markets.
Milder days with autumn color on the downs; fewer crowds; pleasant for coastal walks and markets, with occasional rain.
Cool and damp with crisp days; shorter daylight hours; festive events in town and near the pier; some attractions operate on limited hours.
Fresh blooms and longer days; ideal for outdoor walks, hikes in the downs, and garden visits.
Worthing at Night
Hiking in Worthing
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A hillfort with expansive downs views and coastal scenery, popular for morning hikes.
Accessible longer hikes with country inns and peak viewpoints.
Gentle trails through woods with occasional sea glimpses nearby.
Airports
How to reach Worthing by plane.
Major international airport about 40-60 miles from Worthing; reachable by train or car via the M23/A23 and rail connections.
Large international airport about 60-90 miles away; accessible by rail to London and onward by regional rail.
Smaller regional airport about 60-70 miles away; best reached by train to London followed by rail/coach connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Worthing with parks, beaches, and good schools.
A sizeable retiree community drawn to the relaxed pace and healthcare access.
Some residents commute to larger towns and universities in the region.
Year-round visitors seeking coast, Downs, and local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and matches provide weekend entertainment and community events.
Regional clubs and matches nearby give opportunities to watch and play.
Coastal and inland courses with varying levels of challenge and scenery.
Seasonal cricket played at local grounds and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Worthing.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues in Worthing offer vegetarian mains and salads; ask about dairy, egg, and gluten-free options, and many places can adapt dishes on request.