RETIREMENT LIVING IN WEST SUSSEX
The UK’s sunniest county offers white sandy beaches, lush countryside, Roman remains and so much more.
With officially the most hours of sunshine in the UK, West Sussex makes a compelling location for retirement living if you like spending time outdoors. And you won’t be short of places to explore, from the quaint coastal towns and villages and miles of beautiful beaches, to fairytale castles, ancient forests, historic cities and tranquil nature reserves, including two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Retire to West Sussex
Things to do in West Sussex
With its' ancient walls, Roman history, beautiful cathedral, canal and gorgeous Georgian architecture, Chichester is well worth a visit, as is the nearby Fishbourne Roman Palace. Chichester Harbour is also an important wildlife habitat and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Bognor Regis is brilliant for traditional seaside fun, but if you’re looking for the best beaches in West Sussex try West Wittering Beach, Littlehampton Beach and Worthing Beach with its traditional pier. Near Worthing you’ll also find Highdown Hill which offers fantastic views - you might want to pop into Highdown Vineyard for a wine tasting and tour. History buffs and gardeners will love Arundel Castle, a magnificent well preserved edifice with glorious gardens. Arundel also boasts a Wetland Centre, Cathedral and museum; there’s even a lido where you can admire views of the castle as you swim.
Community in West Sussex
From sailing – Chichester Harbour is very popular - to bowls clubs – Worthing in particular is known as a bowling hub - to volunteering with Sussex Wildlife Trust, there are plenty of opportunities to meet people and get involved in West Sussex life, The rivers Arun and Adur are good for fishing. Cricket is well served - Sussex County Cricket Club are well respected, but there are plenty of small clubs too. Golfers will be happy, with lovely clubs at Goodwood, Worthing and the West Sussex Golf Club at Pulborough. Then the annual Goodwood Revival offers the opportunity to indulge in the glamour of vintage motor-racing. Or why not try Stoolball? A very Sussex sport.
Looking for retirement property in West Sussex? It’s reassuring to know that 83% of McCarthy Stone homeowners experience a sense of community in their new retirement home.
Transport and connections
Other than the M23 which takes you from Crawley to London, you are reliant on a network of A roads to take you around the county by car or bus. You can drive from Worthing to Brighton in just 20 minutes. Chichester to central London takes just under an hour and a half by road The county is also served by three main rail routes: the West Coastway Line, the Brighton Mainline and the Arun Valley Line.
If you are looking to travel abroad then Gatwick airport is located just outside Crawley. The second busiest airport in the UK, with a huge range of destinations, it is perfectly placed for overseas adventures.
Looking for retirement apartments, cottages or bungalows in West Sussex? We only choose locations that offer easy access to amenities like shops, pubs, restaurants, sports centres and attractions.
Surrounding areas
From vintage rail trips – try the Bluebell Railway Lewes to East Grinstead or the Spa Valley Railway in Royal Tunbridge Wells, to boat trips that offer a new perspective on the famous Seven Sisters and Beachy Head cliffs, there are plenty of interesting ways to explore Sussex and beyond. A short trip into East Sussex and you’ll find the boho delights of Brighton or elegant Eastbourne. While the 1066 battle of Hastings is remembered in the town of Battle. The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers endless exploration opportunities for walkers. Enjoy the artworks at this Inspiring Views trail. Ramblers will love the spectacular coastal scenery of the South Downs Way or the beautiful Brighton & Lewes Downs UNESCO Biosphere. All of this and the world class culture and attractions of London are within easy reach too.
Retirement homes in West Sussex
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Retirement living in West Sussex. Frequently asked questions
There are lots of variables that make this a difficult question to answer, but one simple tip is to multiply the amount you’d like to live on every year (say £24,000) by 25 (in this case the answer is £600,000). That is the amount you’d need to save. However this figure doesn’t consider things like your annual state pension, benefits, tax, or the equity you might hold in your home.
The coastal and ceremonial county of West Sussex is in the South East of England on the coast of the English Channel and is bordered by East Sussex, Hampshire and Surrey. Notable towns and cities include Chichester, Crawley, Worthing, Horsham, Bognor Regis and Arundel.
West Sussex offers a wealth of coastal gems to suit everyone. Enjoy family fun at Bognor Regis, walks along beautiful West Wittering Beach or explore traditional Worthing with its pretty pier. Historians are in for a treat too. Arundel Castle and Gardens, Fishbourne Roman Palace near Chichester and Goodwood – birthplace of Rolls Royce - are just some of the county’s unique historic attractions. And then there are two AONB, Chichester Harbour and High Weald.