Famous isn’t always the best. Despite being overlooked by visitors, Amberley is the prettiest village in Sussex. Spend a day here, and it soon becomes obvious why. This remote West Sussex village frozen in time may be small. But don’t let its sleepy atmosphere fool you, there are many perfect things to do here.
Beautiful flowers in bloom.
Peaceful Amberley village is home to just 600 people and looks like from the pages of a fairy tale. This stunning downland village has only a very few buildings that do not fit the aesthetic.
What is Amberley famous for?
The village of Amberley is famous for gorgeous thatched-roof cottages and the blooming flowers in gardens. This unspoilt village is the perfect setting for classical paintings and an excellent rural escape in West Sussex. What’s more, it offers an authentic British experience.
It’s also a great alternative if you want to visit somewhere less crowded. According to many people, it’s one of the most beautiful villages in England. What’s more, it offers a perfect day out in West Sussex for everyone who loves the outdoors and history.
Strolling through this place feels like stepping straight into a BBC-period drama set in the 19th century. So why not head here to explore it?
Where exactly is this gorgeous village located?
Amberley lies at the heart of the South Downs National Park and is a peaceful escape from Arundel or other towns in West Sussex. It’s an easy day trip from London because it has direct trains from London’s Victoria Station. Also, Gatwick Airport is only 34 miles (55 km) away.
Just over an hour and twenty minutes on a train from London brings you to one of the most romantic places in Sussex.
Is Amberley Village worth visiting?
The village of Amberley, nestled on the edge of the South Downs, is a fairy-tale escape with its medieval castle and charming thatched cottages. Known as the ”Pearl of Sussex”, it’s a delight to explore, whether you visit it on a sunny day or during the magical winter season. It’s truly worth the trip.
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Things to do in Amberley village
Once you are in here, you’ll find everything from picturesque views to museums. In truth, there aren’t many things to do here and that is why you come here.
1. Explore the beautiful streets
Peace and tranquillity. Don’t arrive here expecting to find a lot of attractions like in Brighton or Arundel.
One of the first things you should do is to explore its beautiful streets. It’s hard not to fall in love with this quaint village, from the moment you step onto its idyllic streets. Each twist and turn feels like a step back in time. With traditional thatched roof cottages and stone walls covered in flowers, Amberley is full of beauty. This tiny village is magical: at its best in the late spring and the summer, when the smell of blooming flowers wafts through the air.
Did you know that this village is beautifully preserved? It has 17th-century timber-framed thatched cottages and numerous listed buildings. These buildings have special architectural and historic interests. Therefore, it’s no surprise that this historic village is one of the most beautiful places in West Sussex.
2. Michael’s Church
At the end of Church Street, you can find another worthwhile place to visit. The 13th-century St. Michael’s Church sits beyond the castle and overlooks the wetland nature reserve. The highlights of St Michael’s Church are the medieval wall painting brass rubbing.
3. Village pottery
When you find yourself in the centre of the village on Church Street, make time to visit Amberley Village Pottery. This beautiful pottery workshop displays the work of local artist – Caroline Seaton.
Visiting the Village Pottery is one of the best things for everyone interested in pottery making. Walkthrough a workroom and see the different stages of pottery making from traditional materials. Visit the showroom with country pottery on display if you are looking for some bespoke pieces.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The pottery is open on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. You can visit this pottery workshop between 11 am and 3 pm (other times by arrangement).
4. Amberley Castle
There is more to this village than picturesque streets. We also recommend you check out the village’s most iconic attraction – an ancient castle. You are quite right to think that the history of this fortress dates back hundreds of years. This gorgeous fortress was once a manor house. Later, it became a castle.
Today, this pretty castle is a luxurious hotel with a top-rated restaurant in Sussex. Although it’s in use as a hotel, non-guests can also explore the back of the fortress.
Beautiful gardens within the medieval walls are arguably the highlight of your visit. Find the Garderobe – it was a toilet during the Middle Ages.
Walk around the historic castle and its gardens with rose-covered arches and topiary, and enjoy its medieval feel. Not only does the castle offer excellent photo opportunities, but it also has a perfect setting for afternoon tea (or coffee). Moreover, the castle provides stunning views of the countryside.
5. Amberley Wildbrooks Nature Reserve
Wildbrooks Nature Reserve is an ideal place to seek sanctuary from the crowds.
You can’t visit Amberley village without strolling along flooded meadows of ancient woodlands. Exploring Wildbrooks Nature Reserve is one of the best things because it is one of the best places to escape the crowds in summer in West Sussex.
But that is not the only reason to visit this nature reserve. Did you know that Amberley Wildbrooks Nature Reserve is, in fact, one of the richest wetlands remaining in the United Kingdom? It is home to rare birds, plants, and also insects. Soak up the sights and sounds of the surrounding wildlife and enjoy beautiful views of the untouched countryside.
GOOD TO KNOW:
A footpath that runs through Wildbrooks Nature Reserve can be accessed directly from Hog Lane. You should know that Wildbrooks Nature Reserve is often flooded during the winter.
TIP:
Always be mindful that you are a guest here.
6. Museum and Heritage Centre
You can’t take a trip here without visiting the Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre. It’s one of the best things to see because this open-air museum preserves the industrial heritage of South East England. This museum and heritage centre offers a perfect day out for all the family because you can learn more about the history of transport and communications. Take a ride on a narrow railway or the historic bus service around the site. The museum, with over 40 exhibits, is also home to traditional craftspeople.
But that is not all – you can also see old agricultural tools and industrial machinery. Moreover, you will learn more about the rich traditions of West Sussex. Besides, the site has numerous picnic areas, a gits shop and a café.
DID YOU KNOW?
The 007 fans might recognise this museum from the classic James Bond movie The Man from Toronto starring Jessie Matthews and Ian Hunter in the 1930s.
FUN FACS:
Did you know that this museum and heritage centre hosts a popular annual beer festival?
GOOD TO KNOW:
The opening times vary during the winter season. Hence, check it before arrival. If you visit it during the main season (10th February 2024 – 3rd November 2024) it is open 5 days a week. You can explore the museum from 10 am – 4.30 pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays.
The entry ticket to Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre is £17 for an adult and £8.50 for a child, as of August 2024. There are discounts for families and also if you travel by train (2 for 1 entry). Do not forget that you need to present a valid voucher from National Rail’s Days Out Guide when you visit.
7. Bignor Roman Villa
The Georgian covering buildings have protected Bignor Roman Villa for over 200 years.
If you love all things Roman, just a 15-minute drive from the village is Bignor Roman Villa. Walk on the original mosaic floors dating back to 350 AD. Imagine what this large Roman courtyard villa looked like in the past. Start exploring the museum and learn more about its history. You can also see the villa’s model here.
There are over 1,000 mosaics in Roman Britain many of them have been destroyed, though. The Bignor mosaics are some of the finest.
Did you know this famous site remains in the ownership of the family, who originally found the villa’s remains?
Admire well-preserved remains of a Roman home and see some of the best Roman mosaics in Great Britain. Bignor Roman Villa is one of the largest villas open to the public in Great Britain. It is also a place with the remains of the longest corridor mosaic in Britain.
Now you know what the best things to do in Amberley, West Sussex are!
Where to stay
Spending longer than 1 day here and do not know where to stay? It lies in the heart of the South Downs National Park, and there are many things to do nearby. If you have spare time during your stay, check out other things to do in West Sussex.
Below, you will find some of the best places to stay for each price range:
- BUDGET: The Riverside Holiday Park – ideal for a family of four
- Mid-Range: the 11-bedroom Black Horse, located in the heart of the village or the Sportsman Amberley B&B.
- LUXURY: The 900-year-old castle offers luxury accommodations within its medieval walls. If you prefer self-catering, book Spring Cottage (up to 5 people) with a hot tub.
Where to eat
There are only a few places where you can eat.
PUBS:
The village has 2 perfect pubs. One of them is the Bridge Inn, which you can find just across the road from the Museum and Heritage Centre. This traditional pub and kitchen is also not far from the railway station. The Bridge Inn has reasonable prices and serves seasonal dishes and Sunday roasts.
The Bridge Inn opening times (as of August 2024):
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays unless it is a bank holiday (then closed on the Wednesday immediately after). This pub serves the food Fri – Sat all day from 12 pm – 8.30 pm and on Sundays from 12 pm until 4 pm. If you visit the Bridge Inn on Bank Holidays, you can order your food between 12 pm and 3 pm. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, you can have lunch between 12 pm and 2. 30 pm or dinner between 6 pm and 8.30 pm.
The second popular pub in the village is the Black Horse, which offers delicious food inside or in the garden at the back of the pub. You can find the Black Horse with beautiful fireplaces on High Street.
A TEA ROOM:
Alternatively, you can stop for afternoon tea or coffee at Amberley Tea Rooms, which sells cold drinks, snacks and also cakes. This traditional tea room in the heart of the village is open between 10.30 am – 4 pm (closed on Wednesdays).
A FINE DINING:
Another popular place to eat is the castle restaurant. This elegant castle has an elegant dining room that serves outstanding cuisine. Don’t forget that if you book a table in this restaurant, the dress code is smart casual (no shorts or trainers). You can also top here for the afternoon tea and enjoy it in its gardens.
Have you ever been here or is it somewhere you would like to go? Let us know in the comments. If you like our post, share it with your friends.
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Wow, what a stunning place. The cottages are so adorable. Thank you for sharing this village. Must add to travel list! The fact that it is overlooked by everyone else is a bonus.
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