Looking for things to do in Littlehampton? This welcoming West Sussex seaside town brings together beaches, watersports, riverside walks, family attractions, green spaces, independent places to eat and plenty of ways to make the most of a day by the coast.
Sitting at the mouth of the River Arun, Littlehampton is a place where the river, town and sea all meet. That means you can start the morning beside the water, spend the afternoon exploring with the family, stop for something delicious and still find time for a sunset stroll along the promenade.
Whether you are planning a day trip, a weekend by the sea or simply looking for somewhere new to explore, here are some of the best things to do in Littlehampton.
Littlehampton has plenty to fill a day, from its beaches and the River Arun to watersports, Harbour Park, Mewsbrook Park, West Green Park’s splash water feature, the miniature railway, local shops, cafés and restaurants. The town is easy to explore at your own pace, so you can mix classic seaside favourites with quieter corners and local discoveries.
A visit to Littlehampton naturally starts by the sea, but its two main beaches offer very different experiences.
East Beach is the lively side of the seafront, with a long stretch of sand and shingle, wide greens and an easy promenade made for strolling. It is also home to one of Littlehampton’s most recognisable landmarks, the colourful Long Bench, which winds its way along the seafront towards the distinctive East Beach Café.
Cross to West Beach and the pace changes. This more natural stretch of coastline is known for its sand dunes and laid-back feel, making it a lovely spot for a quieter walk, a picnic or simply watching the horizon.
The River Arun is a huge part of Littlehampton’s character. The town sits at the river’s mouth, where boats make their way between the harbour and the open sea.
Take a walk along the riverside, stop to watch the boats, try a spot of crabbing or simply enjoy the change of scenery as the town meets the water. If you want to keep walking, the riverside route continues inland towards Arundel, opening up another side of the Sussex landscape.
With the sea and River Arun meeting in Littlehampton, there are plenty of opportunities to get out on the water. From paddleboarding and kayaking to sailing and other watersports, it is a brilliant way to experience the town’s coastal setting from a completely different perspective.
Whether you are trying something for the first time or already feel at home on the water, Littlehampton offers plenty of ways to add a little adventure to your day.
There is no shortage of family-friendly things to do in Littlehampton. Harbour Park brings classic seaside fun to the seafront with rides, arcades and indoor and outdoor attractions, while West Green Park’s new splash water feature adds another way to cool off and have fun by the coast.
Mewsbrook Park is another favourite for families, with its boating lake, play area, picnic spots and café. During the season, the Littlehampton Miniature Railway runs from Mewsbrook Park through woodland and along the seafront towards Norfolk Gardens, adding a little extra adventure to the day.
Not every seaside day needs to be packed with activity. Littlehampton has plenty of green space where you can pause between adventures.
Mewsbrook Park is ideal for a gentle wander or picnic, while the seafront greens offer plenty of room to sit, play and enjoy the sea air. Norfolk Gardens adds another stop to the day, with leisure activities close to the promenade.
A day by the coast deserves a good food stop, and Littlehampton has plenty to choose from. You will find traditional seaside favourites alongside cafés, restaurants and independent spots across the seafront, riverside and town centre.
Take your time over lunch, pick up something sweet for the walk back to the beach or turn a day trip into an evening out with dinner and drinks. Exploring the places to eat is all part of discovering Littlehampton.
Head away from the water and there is more to uncover. Littlehampton town centre is home to independent businesses, local shops and places that have become part of the community.
It is worth leaving space in your itinerary for a wander, particularly if you enjoy finding somewhere new rather than sticking to the obvious visitor stops. You can also discover more about the area’s past at Littlehampton Museum.
Absolutely. Littlehampton works just as well for a longer coastal break as it does for a day trip. Staying over gives you time to enjoy the beaches without rushing, explore the river, discover more local food and use the town as a base for seeing more of Sussex by the Sea.
Arundel, Bognor Regis and the South Downs are all within easy reach, giving you heritage, coast and countryside in one trip.
Littlehampton is a seaside town with more layers than you might expect. Come for the beach and you can find yourself following the River Arun, getting out on the water, riding a miniature railway, discovering local independents, enjoying family attractions or simply finding a spot to stop and watch the world go by.
Explore Sussex by the Sea to find more things to do in Littlehampton, places to eat and drink, accommodation and ideas for extending your stay.
