Directly south of London and an easy drive or train trip from the capital, the county of Sussex has a surprising variety of attractions to tempt those planning a day trip or a weekend break. From the popular tourist hub of Brighton to lesser known but visually dramatic sites such as Bodiam Castle, planning a trip to this historic part of southern England will leave visitors spoilt for choice with things to do. These photos provide only a brief snapshot of some of the region's many attractions.
![The Royal Pavilion at night, Brighton, East Sussex, England]()
The Royal Pavilion at night, Brighton. The Pavilion is the 200 year old lavish seaside retreat of George, Prince of Wales (later King George IV) ©VisitBritain/ - Britain on View
![A picture of the interior of the Music Room in the Brighton Pavilion, Brighton, East Sussex, England]()
The interior of the wonderfully ornate Music Room in the Brighton Pavilion ©VisitBritain/ Martin Brent
![Arundel Castle]()
Arundel Castle, almost 1000 years old and rich with history
![Arundel Castle]()
The keep of Arundel Castle
![Arundel Castle Gardens]()
Arundel Castle Gardens in bloom
![Bodiam Castle]()
Bodiam Castle - the perfect medieval moated castle
![Bodiam Castle]()
Bodiam Castle is great for a scramble around the ruins
![Martello Tower at Rye Harbour]()
Martello Tower at Rye Harbour, built as a defensive structure during the Napoleonic Wars
![Weald and Downland Open Air Museum]()
Weald and Downland Open Air Museum has an impressive collection of medieval English buildings
![Weald and Downland Open Air Museum]()
Weald and Downland Open Air Museum - buildings gathered from around the south-east of England
![Weald and Downland Open Air Museum]()
Weald and Downland Open Air Museum - inside the old Toll Cottage
This post is written by Andy Jarosz who owns the 501 Places travel blog. With the exception of the first two photographs, all images are copyright of Andy Jarosz and may not be reproduced with his permission.