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United Kingdom
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South East England
West Sussex

Adur

Attractions and Places To See around Adur - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Adur include a diverse range of historical landmarks, natural landscapes, and cultural points of interest. The district, located in West Sussex, England, is characterized by the River Adur, which flows through the region to the English Channel. Over half of Adur lies within the South Downs National Park, providing extensive opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore ancient structures, coastal paths, and scenic viewpoints across the area.

Best attractions and places to see around Adur

  • The most popular attractions is Shoreham Toll Bridge, a bridge that offers great views over the River Adur and is close to the 10th-century St Nicolas’ Church. This ancient toll bridge, initially built in 1781, is now restored and free to cross.
  • Another must-see spot is Downs Link — Adur riverside and Lancing College view (Shoreham-by-Sea), a viewpoint and cycleway. This section of the Downs Link offers views of the River Adur and Lancing College, providing a good surface for various bikes.
  • Visitors also love View of the Shoreham Cement Works from Coombes Road, a viewpoint offering perspectives of the landscape. This route provides views over the river and the impressive Lancing College Chapel.
  • Adur is known for its historical sites, scenic viewpoints, and natural coastal features. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to expansive national park landscapes.
  • The attractions around Adur are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 95 upvotes and 13 photos shared across 26 highlights.

Last updated: June 22, 2026

Shoreham Toll Bridge

Highlight • Bridge

Shoreham Toll Bridge is the last example of this kind of bridge and has a surprisingly-rich history. In a stunning position over the River Adur, the bridge offers great views and is close to the 10th-century St Nicolas’ Church. The bridge was initially built in 1781. Prior to that people and animals were pulled from one side of the estuary to the other on a flat raft, a perilous journey at times, or had to walk 10 miles to the bridge at Branbur. To read more about the history, visit: adur-worthing.gov.uk/seafront-and-river-adur/old-shoreham-toll-bridge.

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Downs Link along the River Adur

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

Shared cycle path and footway by the river Adur. Section from Bramber Castle to Shoreham, which avoids a dangerously busy main road.

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This section is a great surface for all bikes (even skinny tyres). Great views of the river Adur and Lancing College (Hogwarts)

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Shoreham Old Toll Bridge Crossing

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

This route is perfectly doable by a regular road bike. It includes concrete and a wooden bridge with scenic views over the River Adur, so there is no unpaved road whatsoever. It is also a much safer option leading to Coombes Road to Steyning Village rather than following the default Komoot map suggestion leading to busy Steyning road A283 with cars speeding.

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This traffic-free section of NCN route 2 runs alongside two bodies of water - the sea and Widewater Lagoon. It's an area of brackish water landlocked by a man-made shingle bank.

Look out for herons, swans, geese, cormorants, kingfishers, gulls and many other wildfowl.

The path can get quite busy in the summer months so watch out for pedestrians and joggers. There are toilets and a water tap at the eastern end of the lagoon, and also a small kiosk selling drinks and ice creams.

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St Nicolas Church

Highlight • Historical Site

This is a beautifully kept church with Saxon origins and Norman extensions. There are four round Norman arches in the tower containing carvings of limpets, shells, wheel studs in addition to human faces. It has been suggested two of these may be either Henry I and his wife Adeliza or King Steven and his queen Matilda.

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Basin Road South

Highlight • Cycleway

From Hove lagoon head to Shoreham by sea using this road. It is quiet during the weekends but can be busy with tracks on an everyday basis. It has recently had a new tarmac treatment.

Much safer and more pleasant than the main road.

Here is the down side to this parallel toad the the main: if a boat goes through the canal then the bridges lift and you have to wait about 20’! Still this is a rare occasion and in the past years I have experienced it a handful of times only.

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Beach Huts

Highlight • Structure

Great place to stop for fish n chips!

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Titch Hill Climb

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

A nice rolling climb (going North) with great views of the South Downs and the sea behind you. Or do it as a descent towards Worthing

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Thundersbarrow Hill Descent

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

Fun, fast descent with great views of B&H.

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Popular around Adur

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Alice Baddeley

Tips from the Community

ACX
November 13, 2024, Beach Huts

careful at night with dog walkers and runners, some have no lights, all have headphones and some will point a torch at your eyes.

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Careful in the wet the chalk like rock surfaces at the lower end of the ride can be extremely slippery.

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unusual houses by the lagoon

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Did this in April. The lumber scattered each side of the track are being fell because of Ash Die Back.

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This traffic-free section of NCN route 2 runs alongside two bodies of water - the sea and Widewater Lagoon. It's an area of brackish water landlocked by a man-made shingle bank. Look out for herons, swans, geese, cormorants, kingfishers, gulls and many other wildfowl. The path can get quite busy in the summer months so watch out for pedestrians and joggers. There are toilets and a water tap at the eastern end of the lagoon, and also a small kiosk selling drinks and ice creams.

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David Howells
September 10, 2023, St Nicolas Church

This is a beautifully kept church with Saxon origins and Norman extensions. There are four round Norman arches in the tower containing carvings of limpets, shells, wheel studs in addition to human faces. It has been suggested two of these may be either Henry I and his wife Adeliza or King Steven and his queen Matilda.

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Can get very busy but take it easy and take in the views

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The Downs Link is a 36.7 miles (59.1 km) footpath and bridleway linking the North Downs Way at St. Martha's Hill in Surrey with the South Downs Way near Steyning in West Sussex and on via the Coastal Link to Shoreham-by-Sea. It follows the course of two dismantled railways - the Cranleigh Line and the Steyning Line - both of which closed in the 1960s as a result of the Beeching Axe. It is a trail of regional importance supported by three local authorities - Surrey County Council, West Sussex County Council and Waverley Borough Council. It is very popular with people on foot, cycle and horseback.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I visit in Adur?

Adur is rich in history. You can explore the ancient Shoreham Toll Bridge, a restored 18th-century structure offering scenic views over the River Adur. Nearby, visit St Nicolas Church, which dates back to around 900 AD. Other notable historical landmarks include Lancing Chapel, recognized as the world's largest school chapel, and the ruins of Bramber Castle.

Where can I find natural beauty and outdoor spaces in Adur?

The Adur district boasts diverse natural landscapes. Over half of the area lies within the South Downs National Park, offering extensive opportunities for outdoor activities. You can visit Widewater Lagoon, a brackish lagoon popular for birdwatching, or enjoy the various beaches like Lancing Beach and Shoreham Beach. The River Adur itself provides scenic paths for walking and cycling.

Are there family-friendly attractions in Adur?

Yes, many attractions in Adur are suitable for families. The Shoreham Toll Bridge and St Nicolas Church are accessible and offer historical insights. Coastal areas like Widewater Lagoon Beach Huts and Coastal Path provide space for leisure, and the Adur Outdoor Activities Centre in Shoreham-by-Sea offers various activities for all ages.

What are the best walking and cycling routes near Adur's attractions?

Adur offers numerous routes for walking and cycling. The Downs Link, a long-distance path, has sections like Downs Link — Adur riverside and Lancing College view (Shoreham-by-Sea) which are great for all bikes and offer views of the River Adur and Lancing College. For easy walks, you can find routes like the 'View of Shoreham Airport – Shoreham Toll Bridge loop' or 'Shoreham Toll Bridge – Heron Statue by the Riverside loop' on the Easy hikes around Adur guide. For cycling, explore routes on the Road Cycling Routes around Adur page.

Where can I find the best viewpoints in Adur?

Adur offers several excellent viewpoints. You can enjoy panoramic views from Downs Link — Adur riverside and Lancing College view (Shoreham-by-Sea), which overlooks the River Adur and Lancing College. Another popular spot is View of the Shoreham Cement Works from Coombes Road, offering unique perspectives of the landscape and the impressive Lancing College Chapel. For more elevated views, consider the Titch Hill Climb or Thundersbarrow Hill Descent.

What are the coastal attractions in Adur?

Adur's coastline features several appealing spots. You can visit Widewater Lagoon Beach Huts and Coastal Path, which is part of a traffic-free coastal path and a haven for wildfowl. The district also has various beaches like Lancing Beach, Shoreham Beach, Widewater Beach, and Southwick Beach, many with dedicated swimming zones during summer months. The Beach Huts themselves are a popular feature.

What do visitors enjoy most about Adur's attractions?

Visitors frequently praise the scenic views and historical significance of Adur's attractions. The Shoreham Toll Bridge is appreciated for its rich history and stunning position. The Downs Link is noted for its great surface for all bikes and excellent views of the River Adur and Lancing College. Many also enjoy the unique perspectives offered by viewpoints like the View of the Shoreham Cement Works from Coombes Road.

Are there any museums or cultural points of interest in Adur?

Yes, for those interested in local culture and history, the Marlipins Museum in Shoreham is housed in one of the oldest secular buildings in the area and provides a good starting point for exploring the local heritage. Shoreham Airfield also holds considerable heritage significance.

Can I find running trails near Adur's attractions?

Absolutely. Adur offers a variety of running trails. You can find options ranging from easy to difficult, including routes like the 'Lancing Beach Green Beach Huts – Beach Huts loop' or longer runs such as 'Brighton Palace Pier – Lower Cliff Path, South Downs loop'. For more details and specific routes, refer to the Running Trails around Adur guide.

What is the best time to visit Adur for outdoor activities?

Adur's outdoor attractions, particularly those within the South Downs National Park and along the coast, can be enjoyed year-round. However, for walking, cycling, and beach activities, the spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery, especially in the South Downs.

Are there opportunities for water activities on the River Adur?

The River Adur, which flows through the district, offers opportunities for various water-based activities. While specific activities are not detailed, its presence and connection to the English Channel at Shoreham-by-Sea suggest potential for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the riverside paths. The Adur Outdoor Activities Centre in Shoreham-by-Sea is a good resource for organized activities.

What is the significance of Lancing College Chapel in Adur?

Lancing Chapel is a Grade I Listed building and a prominent landmark in Adur. It is recognized as the world's largest school chapel, having taken over 150 years to complete. Its impressive Gothic architecture can be admired from various viewpoints, including the Downs Link — Adur riverside and Lancing College view (Shoreham-by-Sea) and the View of the Shoreham Cement Works from Coombes Road.

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