As the long hot summer of 2023 continues, the Arun District of West Sussex – known to visitors as ‘Sussex by the Sea’, provides countless ways to relax and enjoy those long lazy days and warm evenings.
The beach and coast at Bognor Regis and Littlehampton offer so many delights, whether you go into the water or not and, as the River Arun meanders swiftly between Arundel and the harbour of Littlehampton, the countryside, wildlife friendly parks, green spaces and attractions offer lots of opportunities to top up on fresh air and vitamin D – and all looked over by those big skies and our lovely South Downs.
To make the most of the long summer days, here’s some highlights of the many organised events during July and August 2023 and we encourage you to click the links to our town destination websites to see more information about these and many more events in each town and their neighbouring villages.
Don't forget to check the local Tides and Weather, slap on the factor 50, sun hats and sunglasses too. If you're heading for the water check out these great messages from our friends at the RNLI, H.M.Coastguards and Arun District Council for that all-important safety advice
July - Arundel Cathedral is celebrating its 150th Anniversary and Arundel Museum is celebrating its 10th anniversary, with a great exhibition about the Cathedral! The Arundel Arts Festival has started its pre festival events (the main event is in late August) and Arundel Castle offers a spectacular day out – for the castle, events and the gardens too.
August - The biggest event is Arundel Arts Festival from 18th – 28th August with far too much planned to tell you here. Click on the website, sign up for the newsletter or follow their social media for news of the amazing programme of events.
You’ll find all these and so much more at the Visit Arundel website.
Plus - there’s lots going on at our local attractions, so check their organised events at: Arundel Castle. WWT Arundel, Arundel Lido, Arundel Cathedral, St Nicholas’ Church, Arundel Museum, The Jailhouse, Victoria Institute Priory Playhouse, Amberley Museum and Aldingbourne Country Centre too.
July - It’s all about summer fun in Bognor Regis with a Summer Fayre, Bandstand Concert in Hotham Park and discovery fun at RSPB Pagham Harbour and Drive Through Time Motor Gala in West Park to include the Big Screen showing of the British Grand Prix! There’s also a celebration of the War Memorial Hospital, celebrating it's 70th anniversary and the 75th anniversary of the NHS with a summer fete!
August – The fun continues with a whole programme of Kids Funshine Days every weekday during August and Taste! - great weekend of all things Food and Drink.
Find these events and much more at: https://lovebognorregis.co.uk. Plus check the organised events at attractions: Butlin’s, Bognor Regis, RSPB Pagham Harbour, Bognor Regis Museum and at the Sussex by the Sea Facebook page.
July – There’s definitely a maritime flavour in Littlehampton in the summer months with a Waterfront Festival; and Discos (and more) at The Beach Hub and Cafe
August - continues with the annual Sandcastle Competition; and Screen on The Green; plus a great new ‘Romans’ exhibition and more at Littlehampton Museum.
Check out the Visit Littlehampton website and social channels for more information and inspiration!
For more information on organised events, attractions, visitor accommodation and more in the Arun District's three towns and the local villages, skip over to the tourist information websites for each of the towns: Visit Arundel, Love Bognor Regis and Visit Littlehampton, and plan your next day out or longer staycation in ‘Sussex by the Sea’.
While you’re here, why not check out our other
Things To Do blogs for even more inspiration!
‘Sussex by the Sea’ and Arun District Council provide this information in good faith, as provided by partners and event organisers, or researched and published on various local websites and social media channels. Please click the links provided and contact the event organiser/attraction/business or venue direct to confirm current details.