There’s something magical about hitting the open road and exploring a new location, and some of the most striking routes can be found in Sussex. From coastal drives to the rolling hills of the South Downs, these routes give you the chance to rediscover the natural beauty of the UK and serve as a reminder that you don’t always need to travel abroad to experience a memorable adventure.
Eastbourne, our beloved gateway to all that the south of England has to offer, serves as the perfect launching pad for exploration. Whether you're a lifelong resident, someone who's recently made this beautiful area home or simply holidaying here, there's no better way to experience the freedom of discovery than from behind the wheel of a campervan where you can take your time and really get to know these historic towns and villages.
Connecting with the campervan lifestyle
Here, Dakota Murphey highlights why the free-road lifestyle is the perfect way to explore Sussex.
While designing your perfect road trip is exciting, stopping off at hotels and B&Bs in every town you visit can be expensive and time-consuming. The freedom that comes from a campervan self-drive trip is unmatched, turning simple day trips into genuine holidays.
Companies like Sussex-based Out and About Campers, specialists in campervan conversions, highlight the benefit of choosing this option for your adventures. “One of the biggest benefits of campervan ownership is complete control over your travel plans. No flights, no train delays, no overpriced hotels—just you, the open road, and the freedom to move when and where you choose.”
Enjoy Sussex
Beyond the freedom, the budget-friendly aspects are significant, with accommodation savings, the ability to cook your own meals rather than fully rely on restaurants, the elimination of external transport costs (like flights or rail travel), and the option of finding free venues to park and sleep. Unlike traditional accommodation that ties you to specific locations and check-in times, a well-designed campervan becomes your home on the road, which gives you complete flexibility to follow your instincts and discover hidden gems at your own pace.
The practical benefits are vast. Imagine being able to prepare a proper breakfast while watching the sunrise over the Seven Sisters or enjoying a hot cup of cocoa in the evening with views across the South Downs. Modern conversions provide all the essentials you’ll need to be comfortable, from plush beds and high-end cooking facilities to areas to relax and unwind, all cleverly designed to maximise your comfort while you travel without sacrificing mobility.
So, having established the freedom on offer, let’s explore some of the must-see routes for your Sussex adventure.
Dramatic coasts and lush countryside
The Seven Sisters coastal route (Eastbourne to Seaford)
A beautiful drive, starting in the town centre of Eastbourne, this route hugs the coastline and gives you a virtually continuous view of the English Channel as you make your way along the cliff tops and enjoy the dramatic vantage points at every turn.
The famous Seven Sisters create an undulating skyline that changes character with the light throughout the day. Early morning brings soft pastels that gradually give way to brilliant whites under the midday sun, while later in the day, everything becomes bathed in a golden hue. Be sure not to miss the tranquil beauty of Cuckmere Haven, where the meandering river creates a peaceful contrast to the dramatic clifftops above. This spot offers excellent walking opportunities, as well as some of the most photographed landscapes in the south of England.
The Medieval Weald route (Rye to Battle)
Further from the coast, you’ll discover a completely different side to the county. This route takes you through the historical heart of East Sussex, from ancient woodlands and quiet country lanes to the cobbled streets and timber-framed buildings of Rye, one of England’s best preserved medieval towns.
Along the way, you’ll find countless charming towns and villages to explore, like Winchelsea – a tiny community of just 600 people and the smallest town in England. You’ll continue on to Battle, the famous site of the 1066 battle which changed the course of English history, and Bodiam Castle which is surrounded by forests that burst into colour in the autumn. These quieter roads offer the perfect opportunity to appreciate the peaceful, rural character of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The Arundel to Devil's Dyke via Amberley
For a stunning inland route that showcases why the South Downs National Park deserves its protected status, you need to head to the historic market town of Arundel. Dominated by a magnificent castle, the road gradually climbs into the heart of the downs, giving you a picture-perfect view of Amberley along the way with its thatched cottages and medieval church. It’s a delightful stopping point where you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Culminating at Devil’s Dyke, with panoramic views over Sussex, the coastal plain stretches out below you towards Brighton and beyond. This viewpoint has been attracting visitors since Victorian times, and it’s easy to understand why—360-degree vistas encompass everything that makes this county so special.
The Chichester to Midhurst route
Starting in the cathedral city of Chichester, where you’ll find Roman heritage and Georgian architecture side by side, you’ll then travel through some of West Sussex’s most beautiful countryside, passing the prestigious Goodwood Estate which is famous for its racing and festival of speed.
The journey concludes in Midhurst, often called the “capital of the South Downs National Park.” A charming market town, with independent shops and traditional pubs, Midhurst perfectly embodies the refined character of West Sussex and serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding national park if you have time to spare during your road trip.
Your Sussex adventure awaits
Several excellent campervan-friendly campsites serve these routes perfectly. Near Eastbourne, you’ll find Bay View Park at Pevensey Bay, while the medieval route is well-served by Normanhurst Court near Battle. For South Downs exploration, Concierge Camping near Chichester provides luxury facilities for those seeking extra comfort.
Living in East Sussex means having some of England’s most beautiful landscapes and attractions steeped in history right on our doorstep, but it’s easy to overlook the extraordinary in favour of the familiar. A self-drive campervan adventure allows you to rediscover your own home county with fresh eyes, combining the comfort of home with the thrill of exploration.
Holiday Accommodation in Eastbourne
Once you discover Sussex you are likely to want to stay for longer and you’ll enjoy more space, facilities and comfort in your own holiday home.
Here at Exclusively Eastbourne, we provide the best holiday rentals in all the locations you’ll want to stay across East Sussex – in central Eastbourne, Meads Village, South Downs villages, Sovereign Harbour, Pevensey Bay and St Leonards.
Let us help us you find your perfect base to explore Sussex.