Things To Do
in Polegate
Polegate is a small town in East Sussex, England, perched inland from the South Coast near Eastbourne. It blends a peaceful village atmosphere with easy access to beaches, downs, and historic towns. The town is well connected by rail and road, making it a convenient base for exploring the Sussex coast.
From its windmill landmarks to charming pubs and walkable streets, Polegate offers a relaxed introduction to the region with day trips to Lewes, Beachy Head, and the Seven Sisters nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing morning hike at Beachy Head, where breathtaking views of the coastline and the English Channel await. Enjoy a packed breakfast while standing in awe of the iconic chalk cliffs, and don't forget to capture some stunning photographs. As you wander along the scenic paths, you might encounter some local wildlife, which adds to the experience.
After exploring the cliffs, head over to Eastbourne for a leisurely lunch at a quaint café overlooking the seafront. Post lunch, take a stroll along the Victorian pier and enjoy some traditional seaside entertainment or simply relax on the beach. The combination of the sun and sea breeze will rejuvenate you for the rest of the day.
As the sun sets, dinner options abound in Eastbourne, with a variety of restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Opt for a meal with fresh seafood to truly savor the coastal charm. Wind down your day with a picturesque walk along the beach, enjoying the beautiful twilight sky.
Begin your adventure with a hearty breakfast at a local café before venturing into the South Downs National Park. Hike through the lush green hills and marvel at the diverse flora and fauna that are abundant in this natural treasure. Keep an eye out for the rolling chalk hills and picturesque valleys that define this stunning landscape.
Picnic amidst nature and relish your packed lunch surrounded by the serenity of the park. Spend your afternoon cycling or horseback riding through the park's extensive trails, finding hidden gems and panoramic views along the way. The fresh air and vibrant scenery will invigorate your spirit.
As dusk falls, find a cozy pub in one of the charming nearby villages to enjoy a traditional English dinner. Share stories with locals and fellow travelers over a pint while soaking in the ambiance of a warm, inviting atmosphere. End your day with an evening walk under the stars, taking in the peaceful tranquility of the countryside.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌One-way public transit ticket | $2-4 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $25-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to the coast and South Downs for outdoor lovers
- Easy rail connections to Eastbourne, Lewes, and Brighton
- Family-friendly with a peaceful village atmosphere
- Affordability relative to larger nearby cities
- Limited nightlife within Polegate itself
- Some attractions require car or train trips to nearby towns
- Coastal weather can be volatile; plan for wind and rain
- Smaller town amenities compared to bigger cities
Places to Visit in Polegate
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic 19th-century windmill that makes for a charming, quintessentially Sussex photo, especially with blue skies and green pastures.
Spectacular chalk cliffs and the meandering river create dramatic coastal shots, especially from the clifftop paths.
A dramatic, historic lighthouse perched above the sea—great for moody seascapes at sunrise or sunset.
Wide promenade, piers, and colorful beach huts provide classic coastal photography opportunities.
A chalk figure set high on a hillside; capturing the figure against a blue sky or moody clouds is a unique rural shot.
Food in Polegate
Polegate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A historic dessert baked in a suet crust with a lemon center that releases syrupy custard when cut open.
Must-Try!
A seaside staple—crispy battered fish with thick-cut chips, best enjoyed by the coast or in a pub with malt vinegar on the table.
A quintessential Sussex treat: warm scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam, often paired with a pot of tea.
A hearty pub classic featuring tender beef, rich gravy, and a flaky pastry crust, commonly found in local pubs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A regular market in nearby Lewes offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and occasional hot street-food stalls.
Coastal market with seasonal treats, local produce, and food stalls along the seafront on market days.
Occasional seaside and village events feature temporary street-food vendors offering burgers, fish, and global flavours.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue politely, keep noise considerate in public spaces, and say please and thank you. Pubs and cafes appreciate friendly small talk; respect private property and coastal paths with a leave-no-trace mindset.
Safety
Tipping in Polegate
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. If service is good and a service charge is not included, leave around 10-15% in restaurants. In pubs or bars, rounding up or small tips are common.
Cash is accepted, but contactless cards and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely used. Many venues prefer chip-and-PIN on card payments, and some places operate on a cashless basis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days and lively coastal towns; bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. Coastal winds can be breezy; book seafront activities early on sunny weekends.
Mild days with colorful downs foliage; great for hikes and photography. Pack a light rain jacket for sudden showers.
Shorter daylight hours; cozy pubs and indoor attractions shine. Dress in layers and be prepared for windy coastal weather.
Blooming lavender and wildflowers in downs; pleasant hiking conditions. Perfect for outdoor markets and village fetes.
Polegate at Night
Hiking in Polegate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Long-distance trail with rolling chalk downs, valleys, and scenic viewpoints within easy reach for day hikes.
Distinct chalk figure on the downs; short walks offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Coastal trails along the Seven Sisters country landscape with dramatic cliffs and riverside scenery.
Airports
How to reach Polegate by plane.
Major international hub about 40-60 miles from Polegate; accessible by train or car and offers frequent international connections.
Large international airport roughly 70-90 miles from Polegate; reachable by rail or car with transfer connections.
Small regional airport near Shoreham-by-Sea, convenient for private flights and short-haul connections; about 40-60 miles away depending on routing.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Polegate and nearby towns, attracted by good schools and a safe, village feel.
People traveling to Eastbourne, Lewes, and Brighton for work make up a steady portion of the population.
A sizable retiree community enjoys the tranquil pace and countryside access.
Tourists and day-trippers join locals in nearby coastal and downs areas on weekend days.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played at amateur and professional levels across Sussex clubs.
A traditional summer sport with local clubs and matches in the broader region.
Played by local clubs and enjoyed by families during the season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Polegate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in pubs and cafés; look for veggie pies, veggie burgers, salads, and vegetable-forward mains. When in doubt, ask for vegetable sides or a cheese course to complement meals.