Exploring Amberley village, the Pearl of West Sussex

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Famous isn’t always 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 is sleepy atmosphere fool you, there are many perfect things to do in Amberley village.

Beautiful Amberley in bloom.

Peaceful Amberley village is home to just 600 people and it certainly 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, charming Amberley offers an authentic British experience.

Amberley is 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. Amberley Village is a perfect day out in West Sussex for everyone who loves the outdoors and history.

Walking through Amberley is like being transported right into a BBC period drama set in the 19th century. So why not head to this beautiful village to explore it?

amberley village, England — **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**. Amberley is **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 Amberley – **one of the most romantic places in Sussex**.

**Is Amberley village worth visiting?**

Charming Amberley is **a fairy-tale village on the edge of the South Downs**, with **a medieval castle** and **thatched cottages**. Whether you visit **the Pearl of Sussex** with chocolate-box houses on a sunny day or in the magical winter, Amberley village **is well worth a visit.**

**No time to read now? Save Amberley in West Sussex** **to read it later.**

**Things to do in Amberley village, West Sussex**

Once you are in here, you’ll find everything from picturesque views to museums. **In truth, there aren’t many things to do in Amberley and that is why you come here**.

With no Brighton-style sites, most visitors are gone by sunset. Despite the lack of typical attractions, the charm and beauty of Amberley appeal to many visitors. What’s more, **Amberley’s slower pace** and **breathtaking scenery of the South Downs National Park offer a peaceful escape to the British countryside**.

**1. Explore the beautiful streets**

Amberley village: Charming Amberley is a fairy-tale village on the edge of the South Downs, with a medieval castle and thatched cottages. Whether you visit it on a sunny day or in the magical winter, Amberley Village is well worth a visit. — **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**. Amberley is **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 Amberley – **one of the most romantic places in Sussex**.

**Is Amberley village worth visiting?**

Charming Amberley is **a fairy-tale village on the edge of the South Downs**, with **a medieval castle** and **thatched cottages**. Whether you visit **the Pearl of Sussex** with chocolate-box houses on a sunny day or in the magical winter, Amberley village **is well worth a visit.**

**No time to read now? Save Amberley in West Sussex** **to read it later.**

**Things to do in Amberley village, West Sussex**

Once you are in here, you’ll find everything from picturesque views to museums. **In truth, there aren’t many things to do in Amberley and that is why you come here**.

With no Brighton-style sites, most visitors are gone by sunset. Despite the lack of typical attractions, the charm and beauty of Amberley appeal to many visitors. What’s more, **Amberley’s slower pace** and **breathtaking scenery of the South Downs National Park offer a peaceful escape to the British countryside**.

**1. Explore the beautiful streets**

Amberley village: Explore the beautiful streets of Amberley village because of its slower pace and breath-taking scenery of the South Downs National Park. — *Peace and tranquillity in Amberley, West Sussex. Don’t arrive expecting to find a lot of attractions like in Brighton or Arundel.*

One of the first things you should do when in Amberley 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 in West Sussex is full of beauty.

Yes, you are right – the village of Amberley 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 historic Amberley village is one of the most beautiful places in West Sussex**. 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.

2. Michael’s Church

At the end of Church Street, you can find another worthwhile place to visit in Amberley village. The 13th-century St. Michael’s Church sits beyond Amberley Castle and overlooks the wetland nature reserve. The highlights of St Michael’s Church are the medieval wall painting brass rubbing.

3. Amberley village pottery

When you find yourself in the centre of the village on Church Street, make time to visit **Amberley Village Pottery**. Amberley Village Pottery is a beautiful pottery workshop that displays the work of local artist – Caroline Seaton.

Visiting *Amberley Village Pottery* is one of *the best things to do in Amberley* 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

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. — *Peace and tranquillity in Amberley, West Sussex. Don’t arrive expecting to find a lot of attractions like in Brighton or Arundel.*

One of the first things you should do when in Amberley 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 in West Sussex is full of beauty.

Yes, you are right – the village of Amberley 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 historic Amberley village is one of the most beautiful places in West Sussex**. 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.

2. Michael’s Church

At the end of Church Street, you can find another worthwhile place to visit in Amberley village. The 13th-century St. Michael’s Church sits beyond Amberley Castle and overlooks the wetland nature reserve. The highlights of St Michael’s Church are the medieval wall painting brass rubbing.

3. Amberley village pottery

When you find yourself in the centre of the village on Church Street, make time to visit **Amberley Village Pottery**. Amberley Village Pottery is a beautiful pottery workshop that displays the work of local artist – Caroline Seaton.

Visiting *Amberley Village Pottery* is one of *the best things to do in Amberley* 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 Amberley village than picturesque streets. We also recommend you check out the village’s most iconic attraction – an ancient Amberley Castle. You are quite right to think that the history of this fortress dates back hundreds of years. Amberley Castle was once a manor house. Later, it became a castle.

Today, Amberley 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 castle.

Beautiful gardens within the medieval walls are arguably the highlight of your visit to Amberley, West Sussex. 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, Amberley Castle provides stunning views of the countryside.

Therefore, Amberley Castle is one of the best things to see in Amberley.

5. Amberley Wildbrooks Nature Reserve

Amberley 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 to do in Amberley 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. If you do not know, 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 in Amberley. You should know that Amberley Wildbrooks Nature Reserve is often flooded during the winter.

TIP:

Always be mindful that you are a guest here.

6. Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre

You can’t take a trip to Amberley village without visiting Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre. Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre is one of the best things to see in Amberley because this open-air museum preserves the industrial heritage of South East England.

Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre is 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 Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre host a popular annual beer festival?

GOOD TO KNOW:

The opening times vary during the winter season. Hence, check it before arrival. If you visit Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre during the main season (15th February 2023 – 29th October 2023) 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 £15.50 for an adult and £7.50 for a child. 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 Amberley 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. Therefore, exploring Bignor Roman Villa is one of the best things to do near Amberley.

Now you know what are the best things to do in Amberley, West Sussex!

Where to stay in Amberley village

Spending longer than 1 day in Amberley and do not know where to stay? Amberley 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 in Amberley for each price range:

BUDGET: The Riverside Holiday Park – ideal for a family of four
Mid-Range: the 11-bedroom Amberley Black Horse, located in the heart of the village or the Sportsman Amberley B&B.
LUXURY: 900-year-old Amberley Castle offers luxury accommodation within its medieval walls. If you prefer self-catering, book Spring Cottage (up to 5 people) with a hot tub.

Where to eat in Amberley, West Sussex

As you already know, Amberley is a small village, and there are only a few places where you can eat.

PUBS:

The village of Amberley has 2 perfect pubs. One of them is the Bridge Inn, which you can find just across the road from the Amberley 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:

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 the afternoon tea or coffee at Amberley Tea Rooms, which also sells cold drinks, snacks and 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 in Amberley is Amberley 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 to Amberley village in West Sussex? Is it somewhere you would like to go? Let us know in the comments. If you like our post about Amberley, share it with your friends.