Local information and events

Newhaven is Sussex’s gateway to the continent, and the shortest route between London and Paris. It might not be the fastest but it is definitely most enjoyable. The town and port back onto the breathtaking South Downs National Park, offering visitors stunning coastal walks, chalky cliffs, and panoramic views. Just minutes from the town centre, you can connect with the South Downs Way, ideal for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers. The rolling hills, abundant wildlife, and ancient woodlands make for an unforgettable outdoor experience.

However, take some time to explore Newhaven before you dash through.

Historical sites & family attractions

Newhaven Fort

One of the town’s crown jewels, Newhaven Fort is a Victorian-era fortress with engaging exhibits about WWII, tunnels to explore, and panoramic views over the English Channel. It’s a perfect family day out.

Paradise Park

Paradise Park is an unusual mix of heritage gardens, model railways, and a fossil museum, this attraction is ideal for younger visitors and garden lovers.

Newhaven Museum

Newhaven Museum is tucked away near the harbour, this local gem charts the town’s maritime, railway, and military past. It’s run by passionate volunteers and holds fascinating artifacts including ship models and local curiosities.

Tidemills

Walk east toward the haunting and beautiful Tidemills, the ruins of an abandoned village now reclaimed by nature. Once home to a tide-powered flour mill and later a seaplane base, it’s a site rich in stories and ideal for history buffs and photographers. It also has a great beach, natural fauna and floral and home and great for wild swimming.

Cycling trails & coastal adventures

Whether you’re a casual cyclist or a seasoned rider, Newhaven has you covered. Key cycling routes include:

The National Cycle Network Route 2, connecting Seaford, Newhaven, and Brighton
The Ouse Valley Trail – perfect for scenic countryside rides alongside the river
Access to off-road routes leading into the South Downs

Cycling to France via the ferries

Newhaven Port marks a key point on the iconic Avenue Verte, the celebrated cycle route linking London to Paris. Embark on this beautifully signposted journey and uncover the hidden gems of both France and Great Britain. As you travel between two vibrant cities, you’ll be immersed in picturesque countryside—from the gentle banks of the Oise River to the lush landscapes of the Epte Valley, nestled deep within the French Vexin.

Whether you’re pedalling with family, venturing out with friends, or sharing the ride as a couple, Avenue Verte London–Paris offers a rewarding challenge and unforgettable sights along the way. Let the adventure begin! For more information go to the Avenue Verte website.

Sussex Bay

Newhaven Port and Seaford Bay are within Sussex Bay’s 100 miles of coastline which is part of a regional vision for a healthy blue ecosystem in which nature, people, and the economy flourish. We also champion the vision of cleaner waters, coastal protection and more biodiversity leading to enhanced health & wellbeing and new commercial opportunities for leisure and ecotourism.

Newhaven Gig Rowing Club

A fantastic way to engage with the water, Newhaven Gig Rowing Club brings traditional Cornish gig rowing to the River Ouse. Whether you’re watching their regular practices from the riverside, joining as a member, or cheering them on at local regattas, the club offers a unique and energetic window into Newhaven’s strong maritime traditions. Their events and open days are a highlight for visitors and locals alike.

Newhaven Yacht Club

Newhaven Yacht Club is a small friendly club founded in the 1960s and caters mainly for yachts moored in the towns two marinas and crew members located around the south-east.

It’s members have a wealth of experience, local knowledge and friendly advice. For anyone looking at fun, adventurous and competitive sailing, or even to gain confidence, why not discover more on the yacht club website.

Newhaven & Seaford Sailing Club

Newhaven and Seaford Sailing club provides organised racing series on Sundays and Wednesday evenings throughout the summer. Their clubhouse is on the beach at Seaford and they have facilities at an inland lake at Piddinghoe, with sailing all year round.

Piddinghoe is a RYA Training Centre offering sailing & windsurfing training and RYA powerboat training on the sea and on the lake. Working with Brighton Watersports they off SUP (stand-up paddle-boarding), kayak and other water sports experiences at Piddinghoe and also at Brighton.

Find out more on their website.

Scuba Diving Centre

Whether you prefer on the water, or under the water, there is something for everyone and Newhaven has its own Scuba Diving Centre in Fort Road, at the Marina. Check out the dives information online, and their courses for beginners.

Creative Arts and local culture

Highlights include:

Artwave Festival (7-22 September, 2025): A showcase of local talent with open studios and exhibitions across Newhaven and beyond
Sussex Contemporary exhibitions. Supporting a rich heritage of Sussex artists.
Look Again Newhaven: for the latest exhibitions and art events.
Newhaven Art Projects: A space nurturing visual arts and collaborations
Studios at Meeching Hall and local pop-ups that reflect the town’s vibrant artistic evolution

Festivals, drama & community events

Newhaven thrives on community spirit, expressed through its lively calendar of events:

Newhaven Lifeboat Fête (summer): Celebrating maritime history with stalls, music, and fun for all ages
Raft Race on the River Ouse: A quirky and much-loved tradition each summer featuring imaginative homemade rafts and plenty of laughter
Newhaven & South Heighton Bonfire Societies: Keep the Sussex Bonfire Night legacy alive each November with processions, fireworks, and blazing effigies
Seasonal Fayres and Fetes at Denton Island and Valley Ponds: Look out for Christmas, Spring and Summer community markets

Rail and bus links

Newhaven boasts two railway stations—Newhaven Town and Newhaven Harbour—offering frequent services to:

Brighton (20–25 mins): For vibrant nightlife and iconic seaside attractions
Lewes (10 mins): A charming historic town with its own castle and cultural events
Seaford (10 mins): A quiet beach town with walks to Seaford Head and the Seven Sisters
London Victoria (approx. 1hr 30 mins): Via Lewes and Gatwick Airport
Dieppe (4 hours): onboard facilities with DFDS Ferries include a restaurant, shop and play area, and a bar boasting stunning sea views.

This makes Newhaven not only a destination but a convenient base for exploring some amazing countryside, art and culture.

Food and Drink

There is a wide choice of eateries in Newhaven from tasty food at the local pubs, to a great Indian restaurant, and a popular middle-eastern cafe serving fantastic food and coffee just on the harbour next to the Tourist Office.

Where to Stay

The Premier Inn is situated close to the Port, with its own car park, restaurant etc. There are AirBNB hideaways, rooms, cabins and houseboats around Newhaven, Denton and South Heighton plus Brighton is just 25 minutes away but is a totally different vibe to the lovely scenic countryside of Newhaven and the Ouse Valley.

Newhaven may be known as a port with an industrial heritage, but it’s much more than just a town to pass through. With its blend of history, art, nature, and quirky traditions, this town on the Sussex coast has some hidden gems just waiting to be explored.

Check out Experience Sussex for more things to do locally from wine tasting to medieval jousting.

Local Information