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Getting outside is beautiful whatever the season here in Sussex, but during the summer months it's especially glorious, even if we are a bit biased. While the local towns and villages are usually buzzing with excited tourists, why not take yourself, some friends or your family on one of the amazing walks our local Sussex surroundings have to offer...

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1.) Birling Gap to Beachy Head

Hailed as one of the most beautiful places on earth, beachy head truly is breathtaking. Meander along this cliff top walk and take in the iconic beachy head cliff face along with the equally iconic seven sisters cliffs (just don't stand too close to the edge)

2.) The Devil's Dyke

The 100m deep v-shaped valley in the South Downs, perched between Brighton and Hove, was described by Constable as 'the grandest view in the world'. Local folklore and legend explains the valley as the work of the devil. The legend describes that the devil was digging a trench to allow the sea to flood the many churches in Sussex. The digging disturbed an old woman who lit a candle, and in doing so angered a rooster causing it to crow, making the devil believe that the morning was fast approaching. The devil then fled, leaving his trench unfinished. The last shovel of earth he threw over his shoulder fell into the sea, forming the Isle of Wight. Whether formed by the devil or not this walk is a must see this summer.

3.) Ashdown Forest

This forest is an ancient area of tranquil open heathland occupying the highest sandy ridge-top of the High Weald. Situated just some 30 miles south of London in East Sussex, it's the perfect weekend escape for the family. Ashdown Forest is also the famous setting for the Winnie-the-Pooh stories, written by A. A. Milne, who lived on the northern edge of the forest and took his son, Christopher Robin, walking there- making this the ideal magical experience for children!

(photo: Colin Michaelis)

4.) Lavender Walk 

The glorious lavender fields at Lordington lavender farm in Chichester, West Sussex, are only open for a select few weekends a year, but during the summer months make sure you take yourself there for a visit. The combination of the vivid hues of the bright lavender flowers along with the intoxicating smells of the fresh plants makes for a truly memorable experience. 

5.) Arundel

You would be forgiven for thinking Arundel is some far off fairytale land, or a setting for a fantasy  novel, but this little village tucked away in the deep vale of the South Downs in West Sussex actually is real. The market town is just 49 miles from London and 10 miles from Brighton. Take a walk around the scenic town, peruse the local markets and explore the fairy tale castle looking over the river Arun. 

6.) Stanmer Park & House

Stanmer house and it's surrounding woodland is a great day out for all in East Sussex. The 18th century manor house is nestled in between the South Downs and the sea, just ten minutes from the bustling centre of Brighton- although you'll feel like you've escaped to a different land entirely. 

Go on, get out there and plan your next adventure in the fabulous land of Sussex!

Brighton, the home of colour, quirky shops and happy people. We're sure you won't be stuck for something to do whilst you're here, but just incase it's your first time, we thought we'd supply a round-up of our favourite things to get up to in this wonderful city. 

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1.) The Pavilion

If you take a wander through the beautiful pavilion gardens don't be surprised to stumble across the epic Indian palace residing in the center of Brighton. No, you're not hallucinating from the summer heat, this incredible building really is real. The Royal Pavilion was built as a seaside palace for King George IV and is now a true icon of Brighton. 

2.) The pier

Take a walk down to the sea front and meander along Brighton's iconic pier. take a step back in time with some of it's arcade games and candy floss vendors, or be more daring and have a go on some it's fairground rides. We like to simply take a look out to the gorgeous sea view at the end of the pier with some chips or an ice cream on a sunny day.

3.) The North Laine

Photos just can't capture the vibrant essence of Brighton's North Laines. With over 400 independent shops, cafés and entertainment venues it truly is a place to remember. Full of gorgeous treasures you're only likely to find if you've travelled the globe ten times over, with jewels, antiques, clothing and other wares spilling out on to the streets and bursting tantalisingly through shop windows and doors. In the summer a real festival atmosphere provides sights such as street entertainment, music and dancing as bars and eateries spill out onto the streets for people to gather and enjoy the evening sunshine. 

4.) Brighton museum and art gallery

Situated in the garden of the royal pavilion, Brighton museum and gallery always has an enticing exhibition on. With a discount offered to residents of Brighton and Hove, why not check out some of the diverse collections on show.

5.) Kemptown

To the east of Brighton, a short walk from the Royal Pavilion, lies Kemptown. The slightly more residential area boasts yet more wonderful shops, cafes and bars with some hidden gems such as the Brighton flea market and the (not so hidden) ferris wheel. 

6.) Artists quarter 

Down on Brighton's seafront lies the colourful arches housing paintings and other artworks from local businesses. Have a browse through the copious Aladdin's dens of crafts and stop off for a drink in one of the beautiful seafront pubs. 

 7.) Coffee and cake

One thing Brighton definitely is not short of is cafes (or cake). With it's abundance of cafe culture brimming from every street, there's no end of places to stop for a delicious coffee and slice of homemade cake. Some of our favourites include Choccywoccydoodah (the infamous must-see Brighton experience), Iydea, The Flour pot Bakery and Bond Street Coffee. 

8.) The open market

Located on London Road, another vibrant and eclectic part of the city, is Brighton's open markets. With a strong focus on fresh nutritious foods and ethical products, the market has all the local produce you could possibly need- a butcher, fishmonger, eggs, fruit and veg—as well as cafes, art, crafts, fashions, antiques, a haberdashery, tools, garden goods and more.

9.) Go see a show

Whether you go to one of Komedia's comedy performances, evening events or film viewings, go to see a show at the theatre or opt for one of Brighton's many cabaret or drag performances, go for a night out on the town and experience the much loved theatrical side to Brighton's persona. 

10.) Brighton's not just for summer!

With annual events such as Brighton Pride, The Fringe, The Great Escape music festival, the classic car run, the capital to coast bike ride, the big dog festival, the burning of the clocks and the half marathon to name but a few, there's no shortage of reasons not to visit all year round.

Now you can see why we love Brighton so much, why not take a break this summer and enjoy what this city has to offer!