Things To Do
in Shoreham-by-Sea

Shoreham-by-Sea is a quiet coastal town in West Sussex at the mouth of the River Adur, blending maritime history with easy access to scenic riverside views and the rolling South Downs. Its seafront promenade runs from the harbour towards Lancing Beach, offering family-friendly spots, pubs, and sunset panoramas. The nearby city of Brighton adds a lively arts and dining scene within a short ride, making Shoreham feel like a relaxed gateway to Sussex's coast.

The area rewards walkers, cyclists, and sea lovers with a mix of rural and maritime charm year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Beachfront Stroll
morning
:

Arrive in Shoreham-by-Sea and check into your cozy accommodation by the beach. Start your day with a revitalizing breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee while overlooking the sea. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the scenic beachfront, breathing in the fresh ocean air.

afternoon
:

Explore the local shops and boutiques in the town center, where you can find unique gifts and artisanal products. Stop for lunch at a quaint pub, sampling traditional British fare such as fish and chips. Afterward, visit the nearby Shoreham Fort, a historic site with stunning views of the surrounding area.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant, savoring freshly caught seafood as the sun sets over the horizon. Join a local event or live music session to immerse yourself in the vibrant community atmosphere. As the day winds down, take a peaceful evening stroll along the beach, listening to the rhythmic sound of the waves.

day 2
Exploring the River Adur
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a kayaking tour along the River Adur. Paddle through calm waters while observing local wildlife and enjoying the serene landscape. Take in the fresh morning air as you glide beneath the lovely bridges and picturesque scenery.

afternoon
:

Stop for a picnic lunch at one of the scenic riverside parks, basking in the sun and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. After lunch, consider a guided walking tour to learn more about the rich history and charm of Shoreham-by-Sea. Discover historic buildings and hidden gems that you might otherwise miss.

evening
:

Return to the river for a sunset boat ride, soaking in the changing colors of the sky as day turns to night. Choose a trendy restaurant in town for dinner, offering diverse culinary options that reflect the local flavor. Cap off your day with a visit to a local pub for a nightcap while enjoying live entertainment.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🥗Lunch in a cafe$10-15
🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel$90-150
Coffee$3-5
🚆Public transport day pass$25-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Coastal scenery and easy access to the South Downs
  • Quaint seaside charm with family-friendly beaches
  • Close to Brighton with vibrant dining and culture
  • Good value for money in many pubs and eateries
  • Smaller town with limited nightlife
  • Seasonal tourist crowds in summer
  • Some areas can be busy near Brighton during peak times
  • Limited direct transport links compared to larger cities

Places to Visit in Shoreham-by-Sea

Visit one of these nice places.

Shoreham Promenade and River Adur View

Long, open promenade with boats and the estuary, especially atmospheric at sunrise.

Lancing Cliffs

White chalk cliffs with expansive sea views and dramatic skies.

Shoreham Power Station (ruins)

Industrial relic along the river with a moody backdrop for photography.

Brighton Pier and Palace Pier

Iconic piers with Victorian architecture, lights, and reflections on the water.

South Downs from Ditchling Beacon

Sweeping countryside with coastline visibility on clear days.

Culinary Guide

Food in Shoreham-by-Sea

Sussex coastal cooking highlights fresh seafood, simple comfort foods, and seasonal produce from the countryside; expect pubs, cafes, and seafood shacks along the coast.

Shoreham-by-Sea Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fish and chips (coastal style)

Freshly battered fish with thick-cut chips from seaside chippies; look for venues near Shoreham Harbour for best quality.

Must-Try!

Seafood platter

Assorted local seafood like crab, prawns, and shellfish, often served with crusty bread and a squeeze of lemon at harbourside bistros.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Brighton Open Market

Historic market on London Road offering local produce, street food, and artisanal goods.

Brighton Marina Food Market

Waterfront market with seafood stalls, prepared foods, and fresh produce during weekends.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area has a maritime temperate climate with mild summers and cool winters. Typical summer highs are around 21-24°C (70-75°F) and winter highs around 6-8°C (43-46°F). Rain is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with occasional heavy showers in autumn and winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queueing

Stand in line patiently; queues form for buses, pubs, and popular spots.

Safety Guide

Safety

Coastal safety is important: be mindful of tides, waves, and river currents; supervise children near water; stay updated on weather warnings; in an emergency call 999.

Tipping in Shoreham-by-Sea

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In the UK tipping is discretionary; 10-15% in restaurants if service isn't included; round up for taxis.

Payment Methods

Card payments (credit/debit) are widely accepted; contactless and mobile wallets common; cash accepted but usage is declining.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm, longer days; beach visits, water activities, and outdoor events; expect crowds on weekends.

Autumn

Milder weather with crisp air; good light for photography; occasional rain.

Winter

Cooler and wetter; coastal storms possible; cozy pubs and warm meals in the evenings.

Spring

Blooming countryside; migratory birds near the estuary; milder temperatures and longer days.

Nightlife Guide

Shoreham-by-Sea at Night

Shoreham-by-Sea itself offers a quiet evenings with riverside pubs; nearby Brighton and Hove provide a lively nightlife with bars, live music, and clubs, especially around The Lanes, Kemptown, and the seafront.

Hiking in Shoreham-by-Sea

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

South Downs Way (Ditchling Beacon)

Ridge walk with sweeping views of the coast and countryside.

Seven Sisters Country Park

Wide open landscapes with chalk cliffs and river meanders; good for cycling and hiking.

Long Hill and Long Furlong trails

Gentle upland walks near the Downs with farmland views.

Airports

How to reach Shoreham-by-Sea by plane.

London Gatwick Airport (LGW)

Approximately 30-45 miles from Shoreham-by-Sea; fast rail and road connections via A23/M23.

Shoreham Airport (ESH)

Small regional airport serving private and charter flights; located adjacent to Shoreham-by-Sea for general aviation.

London Heathrow Airport (LHR)

Major international hub about 60-70 miles away; accessible by rail and road.

Getting Around

Walkability

Shoreham-by-Sea is very walkable along the seafront and into the town center; you can comfortably walk between major sights, though longer trips may be better by bike or bus. Nearby Brighton offers extensive pedestrian-friendly areas, markets, and The Lanes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Families with children enjoy the beaches and parks.

Retirees

A portion of the population enjoys the tranquil coastal life and seaside amenities.

Commuters

Residents who work in Brighton or Worthing often commute by train.

Tourists

Seasonal visitors shape local economy and services.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular local and national leagues; local clubs in nearby towns.

Cricket

Common in parks and grounds; local matches during summer.

Sailing and water sports

Activities along the coast and on the Adur and sea; sailing clubs nearby.

Transportation

Traffic

Public transport is good for Brighton direction, with trains to London and other major cities; A27 and A23 corridors; car traffic on weekends can be busy in summer; buses and cycles are widely available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Shoreham-by-Sea.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many pubs and cafes offer veggie mains and seasonal vegetable dishes; ask for specials and confirm no hidden fish sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

NHS GP practices and hospital access in Worthing and Brighton; primary care centers in Shoreham; Worthing Hospital for larger services; emergency services via 999.

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