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Arun

Rustington

Attractions and Places To See around Rustington - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Rustington include a blend of coastal landscapes, historical sites, and accessible green spaces. This charming seaside village in West Sussex offers natural beauty, with its beach and nearby South Downs National Park. The village center features local shops and cafes, and a conservation area highlights historical buildings. Rustington serves as a convenient base for exploring both local points of interest and wider regional attractions.

Best attractions and places to see around Rustington

  • The most popular attractions is Hiorne Tower, a man-made monument that offers excellent views over the South Downs National Park. This 19th-century tower is an impressive example of a folly, providing a notable vantage point.
  • Another must-see spot is Swanbourne Lake, a picturesque lake rich with wildlife. Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the lake and woodland, or hire a rowing boat.
  • Visitors also love Chantry Hill, a picturesque hill in the South Downs. It affords spellbinding views over the countryside and out to sea, making it a popular spot for walks.
  • Rustington is known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and walking trails. The area offers a variety of attractions, from coastal paths to countryside routes and cultural landmarks.
  • The attractions around Rustington are appreciated by the komoot community. With more than 160 upvotes and 50 photos, these spots offer diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Hiorne Tower

Highlight β€’ Monument

Hiorns Tower is an impressive-looking 19th-century tower perched in the South Downs National Park near Arundel. The tower was originally used as a lookout in the war and today is open to the public providing an excellent vantage point to the surrounding countryside.

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Swanbourne Lake

Highlight β€’ Forest

In a picturesque setting, overlooked by Arundel Castle, Swanbourne Lake is a beautiful place that's rich with wildlife. You can take a leisurely saunter around the lake and woodland, relax on the banks and even hire a rowing boat between March and October. Swanbourne Lodge Tearooms, opposite the boathouse, offers a range of food and drink.

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River Arun Riverside Path

Highlight (Segment) β€’ Trail

This is a lovely peaceful stretch of winding single track, alongside the banks of the Arun.

If you cross the river at the north end of this segment there are some great tight, technical trails that head south to the coast.

If you go just beyond the southernmost point of this segment there's a wonderful riverside pub at Offham.

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The Black Rabbit Pub

Highlight β€’ Restaurant

Nice pub with delicious food, right on the banks of the Arundel

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Barnsfarm Hill on the South Downs Way

Highlight (Segment) β€’ Viewpoint

This is classic South Downs Way riding; white, chalky doubletracks, testing climbs and expansive views that help you forget about the burning in your legs!

This climb or descent is steepest at 19%, but only for a short stretch before easing off at the top if you're on the way up. Take a breather at the top to enjoy the views.

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Popular around Rustington

Road Cycling Routes around Rustington

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Tips from the Community

Hannah
May 29, 2025, The Black Rabbit Pub

Lovely setting

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Katerina
May 26, 2025, Hiorne Tower

Cycling is limited. Access from London Road (where cathedral is)

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it's beautiful but it seems it may have been overgrown through times. Now (May 2025), it is full of nettles, bramble, slipped banks and even fallen tree. So prepare to be lifting your bike. Very challenging for mountain bikers. I haven't seen that tree with roots out...either fallen or on slightly different route? There were machines to take care of fallen trees (past Arundel Park gate towards South Stoke)

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An impressive tower!

Translated by Googleβ€’

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Sean
April 14, 2025, The Black Rabbit Pub

Stunning and beautiful area. Thoroughly enjoyed our meal at the Black Rabbit, lots of history.

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KPSangster
February 23, 2025, Hiorne Tower

Beautiful views, trails and architecture in a historical place. Some hill walking, mud tracks (of this time of year) walk along the River Arun. You will see a variety of birds, adulating ground levels, scenic photographic views both panoramic and sculpture. Visit the old market town, churches, a cathedral, views of Arundel Castle, sit by the lake with a hot drink from the cafe at Swanbourne Lake. Walk your own pace and enjoy.

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Good shelter

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MichaelC
September 6, 2024, The Black Rabbit Pub

A busy pub with riverside tables. Food looked good, but we walked on by.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural attractions can I explore in and around Rustington?

Rustington offers a variety of natural beauty. You can enjoy the peaceful Swanbourne Lake, rich with wildlife, perfect for a leisurely walk or rowing. The village also boasts Rustington Beach, ideal for relaxing walks, picnics, and water sports like surfing and kitesurfing. For green spaces, Mewsbrook Park provides family-friendly activities and ample space for recreation. The nearby South Downs National Park, including picturesque spots like Chantry Hill, offers stunning views and walking opportunities.

Where can I find the best scenic views near Rustington?

For spellbinding views, head to Chantry Hill in the South Downs, which offers expansive vistas over the countryside and out to sea. Another excellent vantage point is Hiorne Tower, a 19th-century folly near Arundel, providing impressive views over the South Downs National Park.

What historical sites or cultural attractions are there in Rustington?

Rustington has a rich history. The Rustington Museum, located in a Grade II listed building, showcases the village's past from the Stone Age to modern times. The village also features a Conservation Area with many fine 17th and 18th-century Sussex flint cottages, some with thatched roofs. You can also find the Rustington War Memorial and historical churches like Rustington Methodist Church and Rustington Parish Church (St Peter and St Paul).

Are there family-friendly activities or places to visit in Rustington?

Absolutely! Mewsbrook Park is a great family destination, featuring a miniature railway, pedal boats on Oyster Pond, and a mini-golf course. Swanbourne Lake is also family-friendly, offering walks and the chance to feed swans and ducks. Rustington Beach provides a safe and enjoyable environment for children to play and for families to relax.

Are there good walking or hiking trails near Rustington?

Yes, Rustington is surrounded by excellent walking opportunities. You can explore the peaceful River Arun Riverside Path, which offers a winding single track ideal for birdwatching. The nearby South Downs National Park provides numerous trails, including those around Chantry Hill. For more structured routes, you can find various hiking options, including easy loops like the 'Dog Walking Area loop from Rustington' or moderate coastal walks, in the Hiking around Rustington guide.

What cycling or gravel biking opportunities are available around Rustington?

The area around Rustington is well-suited for cycling. You can find a range of routes from moderate to difficult, exploring the South Downs and coastal areas. For gravel biking, consider routes like the 'Chantry Lane – Long Furlong Bridleway loop from Durrington-on-Sea'. For general cycling, options include longer tours like the 'Hotham Park – Arun Retractable Footbridge loop from Angmering'. Discover more routes in the Gravel biking around Rustington guide and the Cycling around Rustington guide.

Can I do any water sports or activities in Rustington?

Rustington Beach is known for its thriving surfing and kitesurfing community, thanks to its shallow waters and southwesterly winds. You can also enjoy sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the wider area. For a more relaxed water activity, rowing boats are available for hire at Swanbourne Lake between March and October.

What are some recommended day trips from Rustington?

Rustington's location makes it an excellent base for exploring West Sussex. Popular day trip destinations include Arundel, home to Arundel Castle and Swanbourne Lake. You can also visit Littlehampton for its marina and unique East Beach Cafe, or Worthing for its pier and events. Further afield, Brighton offers attractions like the Brighton Pavilion, and Chichester boasts its beautiful Cathedral and the Tangmere Military Aviation Museum.

Are there places to eat and drink near the attractions?

Yes, Rustington Village Centre offers a vibrant high street with a variety of cafes and restaurants, including Chinese, Thai, and Indian cuisine. You'll also find traditional pubs like 'The Lamb Inn'. Near Arundel, The Black Rabbit Pub is a popular spot situated right on the banks of the River Arun, offering delicious food and a welcoming environment. Swanbourne Lodge Tearooms, opposite the boathouse at Swanbourne Lake, also provides food and drink.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Rustington?

Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse experiences available. Many enjoy the stunning views from places like Hiorne Tower and Chantry Hill. The peaceful atmosphere and wildlife at Swanbourne Lake are also highly rated, especially for families. The variety of walking trails, from coastal paths to countryside routes, and the historical charm of the village itself, are frequently highlighted by the komoot community.

Are there golf facilities near Rustington?

Yes, for golf enthusiasts, the Rustington Golf Centre is just a short drive away, featuring an extensive driving range, an 18-hole course, and a 9-hole par 3 course. Ham Manor Golf Club is also conveniently located adjacent to the village.

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