Discover Rustington

Rustington combines local history with things to do and options for a range of interests. If you’re looking for a hotel for your stay, you can first consider whether you’d like to explore local history, spend time outdoors or plan a variety of activities. These three themes offer a practical starting point for getting to know Rustington as a destination.

Local History and Architecture

Rustington Convalescent Home was built in 1897 by F Wheeler in the neo-Caroline style. It features a central four-storey tower, topped by a clock stage and an open octagonal dome. The date and architectural features are distinct: 1897 indicates when it was built, while the tower, clock stage and dome describe its architectural characteristics. For anyone interested in architecture, this provides a precise point of reference for Rustington’s building history.

Rustington Museum is dedicated to the history of the town and invites visitors to explore it in greater depth. A separate, specific aspect of local history concerns the chapel at Rustington Parish Church: fragments of a medieval altar slab bearing five crosses are kept beneath its floor. The town’s history and a particular church find are therefore presented side by side. While the museum focuses on Rustington’s history, the find in the chapel is a clearly defined historical detail.

Outdoor and Active Things to Do

Woodlands Recreation Ground covers approximately five acres. The grounds include a children’s playground, outdoor fitness equipment, a multi-use games area and a wildlife area. The range of facilities is useful when planning: play, fitness, use of the games area and a connection with nature all come together in one place. The recreation ground is therefore characterised not by a single facility, but by several different ways to enjoy it. If you’re planning to spend time outdoors, this mix can help you decide whether the site suits your interests.

Out of Bounds in Rustington adds bowling, soft play, climbing and adventure golf to the range of leisure options. These four activities offer a different focus from the combination of playground, fitness equipment, games area and wildlife area at Woodlands Recreation Ground. When planning, you can therefore choose between a venue focused on specific activities and a site with several different facilities.

Events and Practical Information

The first Rustington Scarecrow Trail took place in 2023 as part of celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of the Rustington Heritage Association. The trail is organised jointly by the Association and the Parish Council. It is therefore clearly connected to the local community’s history and has specific organisers. If the trail is a highlight of your trip, check the event dates in advance so you can plan for it as a time-specific activity.

The Street Toilets have a Changing Places toilet facility and are accessible to wheelchair users. Opening information may change, so check it before your visit if you plan to use the facility.

Rustington Beach may also be of interest to travellers with dogs: a post by Experience Sussex dated 19 November 2024 says that visits with dogs are possible year-round. As local beach rules may change, please check the current requirements before visiting with a dog.

Discover more destinations: Findon, Hurstpierpoint, Barnham, Ardingly, Westbourne, Funtington, Burgess Hill, Rusper

For the main travel overview: West Sussex.