Family Fun in Sussex: Beyond the Beach
By Kyle Davidson on 09 September 2025
While Sussex has a stunning coastline, there’s a world of family adventure waiting inland. From animal encounters to steam train rides, here are some of the best family attractions for a memorable day out.
**1. Drusillas Park (Alfriston)**
Widely regarded as the best small zoo in Europe, Drusillas Park offers a fantastic day out for younger children. Get up close with monkeys, meerkats, and penguins, and enjoy the extensive play areas, including a splash park and themed rides.
**2. Knockhatch Adventure Park (Hailsham)**
For an action-packed day, Knockhatch has it all. With a petting farm, owl sanctuary, huge indoor soft play areas, and outdoor rides like the ski slope and boating lake, it’s perfect for energetic kids of all ages.
**3. Bluebell Railway**
Step back in time on the Bluebell Railway, a heritage steam railway running through 11 miles of beautiful Sussex countryside. The volunteer-run stations are perfectly preserved in period detail, making it a magical experience for train lovers young and old. Stop off at Sheffield Park to explore the magnificent gardens.
**4. Arundel Wetland Centre**
Explore a world of amazing wildlife at the Arundel Wetland Centre. Take a gentle boat safari through the reeds, hand-feed rare geese, and let the kids run wild in the adventure playground. It’s a peaceful and educational day out for the whole family.
**1. Drusillas Park (Alfriston)**
Widely regarded as the best small zoo in Europe, Drusillas Park offers a fantastic day out for younger children. Get up close with monkeys, meerkats, and penguins, and enjoy the extensive play areas, including a splash park and themed rides.
**2. Knockhatch Adventure Park (Hailsham)**
For an action-packed day, Knockhatch has it all. With a petting farm, owl sanctuary, huge indoor soft play areas, and outdoor rides like the ski slope and boating lake, it’s perfect for energetic kids of all ages.
**3. Bluebell Railway**
Step back in time on the Bluebell Railway, a heritage steam railway running through 11 miles of beautiful Sussex countryside. The volunteer-run stations are perfectly preserved in period detail, making it a magical experience for train lovers young and old. Stop off at Sheffield Park to explore the magnificent gardens.
**4. Arundel Wetland Centre**
Explore a world of amazing wildlife at the Arundel Wetland Centre. Take a gentle boat safari through the reeds, hand-feed rare geese, and let the kids run wild in the adventure playground. It’s a peaceful and educational day out for the whole family.