Max's Garden

Hols with kids and dogs – or without – should certainly include a day (or two, or three…) frolicking about by the sea, so set forth for the sand and shingle in Worthing, 20 minutes’ drive away. For clothing-optional swims and strolls, guests need only travel a little bit further: there’s a naturist beach in Brighton, 35 minutes from base. Swims without swimsuits isn’t all Brighton’s good for, of course. Guests should also turn tyres this way for wanders along the marina, assorted amusements on the Palace Pier and explores of the spectacular Royal Pavilion, as well as shops, museums and galleries. If days among the historic sights of Brighton merely whet appetites for more forays into the past, there’s plenty else nearby that should appeal: the stunning Parham House, Arundel Castle and Petworth House are within 30 minutes of the site, as are the Coultershaw Heritage Site and Beam Pump, Bignor Roman Villa and Amberley Museum. History buffs can soak up 1,000 years of Sussex history at the open-air Weald and Downland Living Museum (40 minutes) or opt for a touch of luxury at Goodwood Estate (35 minutes), taking tours and afternoon tea at Goodwood House, visiting the racecourse, moto circuit and aerodrome, and timing stays to coincide with the Festival of Speed, Goodwood Revival or Goodwood Festival.