Cultural Highlights of the South Downs

Although it was the South Downs’ wide open spaces and stunning stretch of coastline that led to the area gaining national park status in 2010, this region is also rich in cultural heritage. Ancient landmarks, genteel country estates, modernist retreats and world-leading arts festivals can all be found in these parts of Hampshire and Sussex, along with museums, cultural attractions and events to suit all tastes. Keep reading to find out more about what the South Downs National Park has to offer and where to stay if you’re heading to festivals like Goodwood or Glyndbourne.  

Historical landmarks

Arundel Castle 

Originally established by the Normans in the 11th century, the Arundel Castle we see today was restored and remodelled in the late 18th and early 19th century by the 11th Duke of Norfolk. The castle is surrounded by extensive grounds and spectacular gardens – for many, the highlight here will be the Collector Earl's Garden, where a rich mix of foliage is complemented by water features and Oberon's Palace, a folly with a shellwork grotto and fountains. 

Arundel also hosts a range of special events throughout the year, including medieval festivals, a spring plant fair, jousting tournaments and open-air Shakespeare performances. 

Petworth House and Park

Originally a small medieval manor, Petworth House was transformed into a grand Baroque palace in the late 17th century. Over the centuries, Petworth has welcomed royalty and celebrated artists, all of which have left their mark on the place we see today. 

700-acre Petworth Park, with its magnificent herd of fallow deer, is also worth exploring. With landscapes designed by Capability Brown, it has sweeping views of the local countryside as well as a 30-acre woodland garden. The park also hosts the town of Petworth's summer fete as well as the annual Petworth Festival, a celebration of literature and music usually held in the late autumn.

Fishbourne Roman Palace

The largest Roman villa in Britain, Fishbourne Palace offers a fascinating glimpse into what life would have been like in the South Downs as a high-ranking Roman in the 1st century AD. A museum has been built over the ruins, so you can see the impressive mosaics, underfloor heating and other artefacts where they would have been in the original house. Outside, a garden has been created with authentic plants from the days of the Romans, with aromatic herbs and roses that would have reminded the villa's occupants of home.

Bignor Roman Villa

For more Roman heritage, pay a visit to Bignor Roman Villa, a short drive down the road from Pulborough or Chichester. The exact history of the villa is unknown, but it's certainly an impressive place to explore now. For a really unique experience, there's a campsite on site here, so you can stay the night just a few steps away from the villa’s well-preserved mosaics.

Museums and cultural centres

Weald and Downland Living Museum

An open-air museum showcasing the traditional rural way of life in the South Downs, the Weald and Downland Living Museum has over 50 historic buildings to explore in gorgeous surroundings. This is a really interactive and hands-on day out, where you can learn about traditional crafts, watch farming demonstrations and enjoy seasonal events that include summer open-air theatre and a Christmas market. 

Amberley Museum

Dedicated to the industrial heritage of the local area, the open-air Amberley Museum serves as a good reminder that the South Downs isn't just about the countryside and farming. You’ll be transported back in time as you explore historic chalk quarries that are now home to a variety of exhibits where you’ll encounter everything from vintage vehicles and steam engines to traditional crafts and printing presses – and don't miss the opportunity to take the kids on the narrow-gauge railway.

Charleston Farmhouse

Charleston Farmhouse offers a captivating glimpse into the world of the Bloomsbury Group. This Sussex retreat, once home to artists Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant, is a living testament to their colourful and experimental spirit, with its fantastic painted interiors and a rich variety of bold and imaginative artworks. The garden is an equally inspiring space, filled with striking sculptures and foliage in a riot of colours. 

Guided tours of the house and garden are available but are very popular – make sure to book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Events and festivals

Goodwood Festival of Speed

The Goodwood Festival of Speed, held annually in late June or early July near Chichester, is more than just a motorsports event – it's a journey through the history of the car and a celebration of automotive heritage and style. Surrounded by the pretty Sussex countryside, Goodwood House serves as the stunning backdrop for this annual spectacle.

The festival showcases an extraordinary collection of vehicles that have shaped the world of motoring – you'll see everything from pioneering steam-powered carriages to cutting-edge electric hypercars. Tickets sell out quickly, so make sure to book as early as you can – and on the day, arrive as early as you can to avoid the crowds and get the best possible view of the action. 

Glyndebourne Opera Festival

The Glyndebourne Festival is an iconic event in the world of opera, with a unique atmosphere that has inspired numerous other festivals around the UK. Since its early days in the 1930s, the festival has cultivated a reputation for presenting exceptional performances in the intimate and refined setting of an English country house. 

The festival's unique blend of opera, fine dining and outdoor elegance attracts a sophisticated and discerning crowd. But at the same time, Glyndebourne has helped to popularise opera, and the performances here often feature more contemporary elements. It's not always that expensive an affair either, especially if you go during the autumn season of performances (held in October, a few months after the main performances) or take advantage of the discounted tickets for children and people under 30.

While most attendees will be in black tie, it's not compulsory, and there are dedicated changing rooms on site if you'd rather not travel in your finery (a great option if you're staying at a campsite or glampsite nearby). 

From opera to industrial heritage and ancient history, the South Downs is bursting with cultural attractions, events and activities. The examples listed on this page don’t represent an exhaustive list of what you could get up to on a holiday here – there are lots of other family-friendly days out and accessible attractions to explore, as well as walks, cycle rides and more. 

Ready to start planning your South Downs getaway? With a wide range of camping pitches, caravan parks and glamping stays across the national park, you’re sure to find a form of outdoor accommodation that suits your style.