Best Places to Live in West Sussex

West Sussex has some of the most delightful countryside in England, and some gobsmackingly beautiful coastline too.  All within such reasonable commuting times into London, but maybe just far enough away to keep its many hidden gems unspoiled and at arms length from the masses…strictly between us of course…In this guide we take a look at the best places to live in West Sussex.

Share this post:

This guide is introduced by Christian Heyman, Founding Director of Sussex Homesearch, a leading independent buying agency.   The company was established in the early 2000s and has built up an extensive knowledge of the local property market with an impressive network of estate agents, developers and private sellers, meaning it is often the first to know when a property is available for sale.  Contact Christian of Sussex Home Search.

Chichester

This is a city smallish in stature but mighty in what it has to offer.  Yes, it is technically a city (with a cathedral and also many of the attractions and amenities you would expect from a larger town) but its appeal and immense charm lies in its picturesque harbourfront setting and its surrounding rural and waterside villages…Bosham, West Wittering, Petworth and Midhurst to name a few.  It’s catnip for yachties with the Solent nearby and London Victoria is just over an hour and a half away.  A fine place to lay down roots, we’d say.

Locals Love

“In the summer we pack a picnic and hire a rowing boat along the canal – it’s become a yearly ritual now and very romantic – unless you fall in!”

“Goodwood Revival…an incredible day out…you get to dress up to the nines in old school glamour and revel in the atmosphere, oh, and watch the odd race too if you make it out of the champagne bar.”

“Walk the coastal path at East Head and once you get to the end, take in West Wittering Beach, this beach could arguably be the best beach in England, yes Cornwall we said it!”

Arundel

Arundel might just be the prettiest girl at school, and doesn’t she know it…with a fine specimen of a castle atop the hill overlooking its exquisite meandering streets on their way down to the River Arun.  The Pig Hotel, the latest local obsession, is the place to be and you may spend a pleasant afternoon losing yourself in the grounds of their estate and overlooking their recently planted vines from the restaurant.   Arundel is a special place and homes here are most sought after.  If you do manage to snap one up, you may just feel like you are living in a real-life period drama, with you as the central protagonist… 

Locals Love

Moaning about the tourists. Come on ladies and gents, you chose to live in one of the best towns in England…

“Swimming at Arundel Lido, the last remaining lido in West Sussex.   There is a real sense of community and camaraderie, especially when it’s freezing out there!” 

“Taking a stroll around the Swanbourne Lake and up to Hiorne Tower, the views of the sunset here are exceptional.”

“Browsing ALL of the antique shops – there are so many of them, you will always find something fascinating and unique.”

Shoreham-by-Sea

Nestled on the banks of the River Adur, Shoreham-by-Sea is a beguiling  fusion of maritime charm, artistic spirit, and natural beauty. Homes on the beachfront are in high demand but with occasional opportunities to redevelop older properties to build the home of your dreams…with the views to match.

Shoreham-by-Sea is 30 minutes from the bright lights of Brihton and is a very respectable 60 minute commute into London Victoria. Shoreham College is a much-loved private school for children aged between 3 and 16. 

Locals Love

“During the Adur Festival, visit the strange and fantastical line up of house boats along the riverbank, it’s home to some of the most bizarre house boats in Britain.”

“On the second Saturday of every month we spend the morning at the Shoreham Farmers Market, the warm fresh Italian bread sold at Buskers is just yummy.”

“A warm pear and chocolate tart and a flat white from La Patisserie after a brisk walk on Shoreham beach – such a treat.”

Worthing

Worthing really has had a tough time of it, often labelled “God’s Waiting Room” but not anymore.  The underdog has fought back and is giving her popular sister Brighton a run for her money. Worthing is now frequently voted one of the county’s best places to live, and “The Best Seaside Town to move to in 2023” in Time Out – who knew!  Well, the locals did, obviously :  The town boasts elegant beachfront promenades, ideal for leisurely strolls and breath-taking sunsets. It hosts a vibrant arts scene with a good measure of indie boutiques and charming cafes along Montague Street.  The schools aren’t half bad either…Our Lady of Sion is a co-ed public school with a warm family environment, and Oak Grove College is an excellent state option. Worthing has earnt her new status, and we believe it’s here to stay.

Locals Love

“A long walk along East Worthing Beach to build up an appetite so we can stuff down the delights served up at Crab Shack – the best seafood in Worthing.”

“A trip to Winston Estate Winery in Pulborough, this is a very special day out – book a tour or a table in the Chalk Down restaurant – you won’t regret it.”

“On a misty morning taking a walk in Beach House Park, there is something truly magical about the Warrior Birds Memorial – a curious monument set in a lush rockery garden that marks the efforts of the messenger pigeons in the First and Second World War.”

Linfield Village

This is a village that has won ‘best kept village in the UK’ so often they had to withdraw from entering to give other villages a chance! Situated just north of the larger town of Haywards Heath, it’s perfect for those who need a little more life around them and are perhaps still transitioning from the buzz of London. Life centres around the Village Pond and the well-stocked high street, busy with well heeled cafes and boutiques and there’s a cosy pub and some fabulous eateries too. Lindfield has a real community spirit; hosting many international Cricket matches over the years and the village day and bonfire night are brilliant events in the calendar. Home to some excellent schools, including the well-regarded Lindfield School for 11- to 16-year-olds who are identified as having a range of special educational needs and learning difficulties, which can be hard to find. Lindfield has always had a place in our hearts and if you move here – we’d like an invitation to the housewarming party!

Locals Love

“Friday Night curry night – The vegan Massaman curry from Limes Thai Kitchen is delicious – it marks the start of the weekend.”

“Taking the children to Fun Pots pottery painting studio, although we normally get so into the painting that we enjoy it more than the kids!”