Best attractions and places to see around East Preston include a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and a tranquil village atmosphere. This charming coastal village in West Sussex, United Kingdom, offers easy access to both the coast and the South Downs National Park. Visitors can explore ancient hill forts, picturesque lakes, and peaceful riverside paths. The area provides opportunities for hiking, cycling, and enjoying expansive countryside views.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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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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Follow the trail around the ring for great views over Findon to Worthing
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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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Not great for riding, narrow, overgrown and lots of walkers. Most of the time you have no views of the river either.
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East Preston offers a variety of natural beauty. You can visit Swanbourne Lake, a picturesque spot rich with wildlife where you can walk or hire a rowing boat. The River Arun Riverside Path provides a peaceful stretch for walks. East Preston Beach is a quiet, pebbled beach ideal for long walks and enjoying sunsets. The village is also conveniently located near the South Downs National Park, offering expansive countryside views and opportunities for hiking.
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore Cissbury Ring, one of Europe's largest Iron Age hill forts, offering stunning views and a rich history spanning over 5,000 years. Another notable site is Hiorne Tower, a 19th-century tower in the South Downs National Park that provides panoramic views. Within the village, St. Mary the Virgin Church, dating from the 12th century, and the Original Village School Building from 1840 add to the historical charm.
Beyond exploring attractions, East Preston is a great base for outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and hiking in the South Downs National Park or along the River Arun Riverside Path. The nearby cycling routes offer diverse terrain, from coastal paths to countryside trails. For runners, there are various running trails, including loops from East Preston itself. East Preston Beach is also perfect for leisurely strolls.
Yes, East Preston and its surroundings offer several walking opportunities. You can take a leisurely walk around Swanbourne Lake, or explore the peaceful River Arun Riverside Path. For more challenging hikes with rewarding views, the trails around Cissbury Ring in the South Downs National Park are highly recommended. Quieter routes like Kingston Gorse and Ferring Rife walks are also available for nature spotting.
Absolutely! East Preston is well-suited for cycling. There are numerous cycling routes available, ranging from moderate to challenging. You can find routes that take you along the coast, through the countryside, and past landmarks like Arundel Castle. For road cyclists, there are also dedicated road cycling routes in the area.
East Preston offers several family-friendly options. Swanbourne Lake is a great spot where children can enjoy feeding ducks and swans, and you can hire rowing boats between March and October. East Preston Beach is also suitable for families, known for its gentle tides and opportunities for collecting seashells. The village's proximity to the South Downs National Park provides ample space for family walks and outdoor exploration.
Yes, East Preston Beach is known for being dog-friendly year-round, making it a great spot to enjoy with your canine companion. It's a quiet, pebbled beach perfect for long walks.
East Preston is enjoyable throughout the year, but for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. During spring, you might observe migratory birds at Cissbury Ring. Summer is ideal for beach activities and enjoying the village's community events, while winter offers crisp walks and tranquil landscapes.
East Preston's village centre features quaint cafΓ©s and traditional pubs, offering an authentic taste of Sussex life. For example, Swanbourne Lodge Tearooms, opposite the boathouse at Swanbourne Lake, offers food and drink. Many walking and cycling routes also pass by or near establishments where you can refuel.
Cissbury Ring is a significant Iron Age hill fort, one of Europe's largest, covering about 60 acres. It boasts a history of over 5,000 years and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, the English Channel, and even the Isle of Wight on a clear day. It's also a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), known for its diverse flora and fauna, including rare orchids and butterflies, and is a key spot for observing migratory birds.
The village centre of East Preston offers a charming and authentic taste of Sussex life. You'll find quaint cafΓ©s, traditional pubs, and boutique shops. It's a great place to experience the local atmosphere and serves as a hub for community amenities, including the East Preston Village Hall, which was converted from old barns.


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