Family Day Trips from Brighton

A small zoo and adventure park in Alfriston that is perfectly scaled for young children. The Hello Kitty Secret Garden and Go Safari are big hits with the under-10s. Reachable by car in about 25 minutes.

A garden centre, mini-golf course, and indoor play area combined in Newhaven. The Planet Earth exhibition appeals to school-age kids. Good value and easy to reach by bus or car.

A heritage steam railway running through the Sussex Weald between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead. Thomas the Tank Engine events sell out fast. The journey itself is the attraction — kids love it.

A Norman castle with towers to climb and views over the Downs. Lewes itself is a great town for a wander with independent shops, bakeries, and the free Barbican House museum next door.

A proper castle with turrets, dungeons, and gardens. The grounds are extensive and there is a playground and cafe. Arundel town has independent shops and places to eat. Worth the drive.

Dramatic chalk cliffs, rock pools, and a meandering river at Cuckmere Haven. A manageable walk for families with sturdy footwear. The visitor centre has toilets and a small cafe. Pushchairs work on the main path.

A larger zoo near Winchester with giraffes, snow leopards, and a tropical house. Bigger than Drusillas and works better for older kids. Plan for a full day — it is a substantial site.

A storybook moated castle run by the National Trust. Kids can explore the ruins, spot fish in the moat, and run around the grounds. The spiral staircases and battlements are a hit.

Hastings seafront has an amusement park, the Shipwreck Museum, and Smugglers Adventure in the caves of the West Hill. The funicular railway up the cliff is fun too. A full day out by train.