What to do in Ovingdean

Activities, attractions and tours

Division of Ovingdean and Rottingdean
Division of Ovingdean and Rottingdean
Ovingdean. View south from the bridleway that takes Ovingdean's 11th century church and accompanying flint built buildings. Much of the old village uses the same material for house building a legacy of the 18th century when old wooden structures were replaced with stone buildings sourced from whatever could be found locally and in great quantities.
Photo by Simon Carey (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
Court Ord Road, Rottingdean. Looking east towards its junction with Falmer Road (B2133). The square ends just beyond the ridge of the downs beyond.
Photo by Simon Carey (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
Farmland NW of Ovingdean
Photo by Paul Gillett (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
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Top places to visit

1. Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is a popular seaside escape that buzzes with activity during the summer. Go for a stroll along the promenade, ride fairground attractions on a Victorian pier and revel in the lively atmosphere of the beach’s busy cafés, restaurants and clubs.
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Brighton Beach which includes general coastal views

2. Brighton Centre

The Brighton Centre is a multipurpose arena that hosts a variety of events such as conferences, music and sports. It has an audience capacity of 4,500 and an exhibition space of 53,820 square feet (5,000 square meters). Set on the seafront, Brighton Centre has been an integral part of the city’s cultural scene since opening in 1977. It has a Brutalist architectural design that was unique in England at the time of its inauguration.
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AY7KWM Brighton seafront - the view of the Brighton Centre and the Grand Hotel, East Sussex, England. Image shot 2008. Exact date unknown.

3. Brighton Pier

Brighton Pier is the heart of the town’s seaside entertainment scene. Spend an afternoon eating cotton candy and riding thrilling roller coasters and come back in the evening for a stroll.
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Brighton Pier showing signage

4. Brighton Marina

Brighton Marina consists of a harbor full of boats and a maze of houses overlooking the English Channel. The 127-acre (51-hectare) labyrinth is charming in its simplicity and is home to gated communities with townhouses and apartments. Spend the afternoon browsing its various leisure centers, shops and restaurants with waterfront views.
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Brighton Marina showing a house, boating and a marina

5. Preston Park

The city’s largest green area, Preston Park, has a lake, children’s playground and vast forest. The site consists of 63 acres (26 hectares) of pleasant parkland. Visit for its regular outdoor events, such as music performances, circuses and family activities. Enjoy a picnic on a lovely green patch in the shade of a tree while you watch the kids at play.
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Preston Park which includes a park and heritage elements

6. University of Sussex

The University of Sussex is an educational institute nestled in the shadow of the beautiful South Downs National Park. Walk alongside students and between an interesting collection of architectural landmarks. Be part of student-organized events and follow a trail around the campus’ surrounding countryside. Established in 1961, the University of Sussex counts Nobel Prize laureates among its staff and notable politicians among its alumni.
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East Sussex

What to do in Ovingdean

Popular places to visit

Brighton Beach showing a city and general coastal views

Brighton Beach

Visit this famous spot on the Sussex coast, where you can enjoy waterside activities during the day and an energetic nightlife after dark.

Brighton Beach
Brighton_BrightonCentre_6081141_003

Brighton Centre

From rock and pop concerts to children’s entertainment and sports tournaments, this is one of the most popular live event venues in Brighton.

Brighton Centre
Brighton Pier

Brighton Pier

Enjoy fun-filled hours at this Brighton attraction, home to fairground rides, amusement arcades and classic seaside snacks.

Brighton Pier
Reading FC take on BHAFC in the FACup

American Express Stadium

Catch an event at American Express Stadium during your trip to Brighton. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.

American Express Stadium
Brighton Marina which includes a marina and a house

Brighton Marina

Take a leisurely stroll around this remarkable port, where houses and apartments stand alongside moorings for impressive ships and yachts.

Brighton Marina
Preston Park which includes a garden

Preston Park

Get a closer look at some of the world’s oldest elm trees at this spacious park where concerts and fairs take place.

Preston Park
East Sussex

University of Sussex

From a library stacked with original editions by famous authors to a performing arts venue and nature walks, there’s always something to see and do at this public research uni near Brighton.

University of Sussex
Brighton Dome featuring a garden

Brighton Dome

Watch a dramatic performance, a classical music display or a modern dance show in these historic buildings that once housed the royal family’s horses.

Brighton Dome
Brighton Royal Pavilion showing a mosque, heritage elements and heritage architecture

Brighton Royal Pavilion

An eye-catching mix of Asian motifs and royal grandeur, this palace is one of the most magnificent buildings in the United Kingdom.

Brighton Royal Pavilion

Day trip destinations from Ovingdean

Brighton Beach which includes a pebble beach

Brighton

Frequently asked questions

Is Ovingdean worth visiting?
Ovingdean offers a unique blend of culture, local charm and attractions. Whether you're into history, outdoor activities or regional cuisine, there's plenty you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Ovingdean?
Once you've checked off top attractions like Brighton i360 and Brighton's Naturist Beach, spend some time exploring Ovingdean's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ovingdean?
You can't go home without exploring Brighton i360, rated the top tourist attraction in Ovingdean.
Is three days enough to stay in Ovingdean?
You can easily visit top sights like Brighton i360, Brighton's Naturist Beach and Brighton Museum and Art Gallery with a three-day break in Ovingdean. On average, many travellers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stick around longer and head to Gatwick.
Is Ovingdean a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Ovingdean, including Brighton's Naturist Beach and Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 5 kilometers from the city centre of Ovingdean is Brighton City Centre and Seafront is 5 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Ovingdean with kids?
Whether you're travelling with young explorers or playful teenagers, a fun-filled itinerary takes your trip to the next level. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Ovingdean with kids.

What to do in Ovingdean for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Ovingdean, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to North Laine or West Street.
Are there free things to do in Ovingdean?
In Ovingdean, Brighton's Naturist Beach is a must-see spot for anyone planning to tour the city without taking their wallet out. Also, stroll around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a top way to learn about the best free things to do in Ovingdean.