City · United Kingdom

Littlehampton

Littlehampton, West Sussex, United Kingdom

Littlehampton: Where Seaside Charm Meets Modern Delights Escape to Littlehampton, a vibrant seaside town nestled on the stunning West Sussex coast…

#coastal town#beach#marina#tourist destination#West Sussex
OverviewVideosPracticalGuide

Top Hotels in Littlehampton

Top Flights to Littlehampton

Flying from

Top Activities in Littlehampton

See it for yourself

Location videos

Reels and longer watches.

Watch & explore

Good to know

Practical info

Weather, costs and getting around.

Littlehampton, West Sussex, United Kingdom Open in Google Maps
When to go

Scored from each month’s typical high and its usual conditions.

GoodMixedAvoid
Best monthsApr – Sep
Worth avoidingOct – Feb
September · cloudHigh 19°C Low 12°C
Good

Littlehampton, located on the south coast of England, experiences a temperate maritime climate. Summers (June to August) are generally mild and pleasant, with average high temperatures around 20°C (68°F). Winters (December to February) are cool, with average lows around 2°C (36°F) and occasional frost. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, so it is advisable to pack waterproof clothing regardless of the season. The weather can be changeable, so layers are recommended for comfort. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and can be a lovely time to visit with fewer crowds.

All 12 monthshighs, lows and conditions
Jan
rain
8°3°
Feb
rain
8°3°
Mar
cloud
11°4°
Apr
cloud
13°6°
May
cloud
16°9°
Jun
sun
19°12°
Jul
sun
21°14°
Aug
sun
21°14°
Sep
cloud
19°12°
Oct
rain
15°9°
Nov
rain
11°5°
Dec
rain
9°4°
Currency
£ | GBP | Pound Sterling
Population
30,000
Density
5,801 / km²
Local time
Languages
English mainly · Polish, Portuguese
Budget / day
£150 - £350
Also known as
Hantone, Hantone Regis, Lyttelhampton

Know before you go

Local guide

A deeper read on Littlehampton.

What people love

Littlehampton, located in West Sussex, United Kingdom, offers several pros for travelers looking to visit the area. Here are some detailed reasons why traveling to Littlehampton can be a great experience:

  1. Beautiful Beaches: Littlehampton is famous for its stunning beaches, including the popular Littlehampton Beach and East Beach. Visitors can enjoy relaxing on the sandy shores, taking in the coastal scenery, and participating in water sports activities.

  2. Family-Friendly Attractions: Littlehampton is home to family-friendly attractions such as the Littlehampton Miniature Railway, Harbour Park, and the Longest Bench. These attractions are perfect for families with children looking for fun and entertainment.

  3. Littlehampton Harbour: The town's picturesque harbor is a great spot to explore, offering boat tours, fishing opportunities, and charming waterfront cafes and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the harbor, watch the boats come and go, and sample fresh seafood dishes.

  4. Nature Reserves: Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby nature reserves, such as the Arun and Rother Wildlife Trust Reserve and the Brookfield Park. These reserves provide opportunities for bird watching, walking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

  5. Historic Sites: Littlehampton has a rich history, and visitors can explore historic sites such as the Littlehampton Museum and the 18th-century Grade II listed buildings in the town center. History enthusiasts will enjoy learning about the town's past and heritage.

  6. Quaint Town Center: The town center of Littlehampton offers a charming mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can wander through the streets, browse local boutiques, and sample delicious cuisine in cozy eateries.

Overall, traveling to Littlehampton can be a delightful experience for those looking to enjoy the seaside, explore nature reserves, discover local history, and relax in a picturesque town setting.

What to know

Littlehampton, located in West Sussex, United Kingdom, is a charming coastal town with many attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. However, like any destination, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling to Littlehampton:

  1. Weather: As with many coastal towns in the UK, Littlehampton can experience unpredictable weather, including rain and wind. Visitors should be prepared for potential changes in weather conditions during their stay.

  2. Crowds: During peak tourist seasons, such as summer months and holidays, Littlehampton can become crowded with visitors. This may lead to longer wait times at attractions, restaurants, and accommodations.

  3. Limited public transportation: While Littlehampton does have some public transportation options, such as buses and trains, the services may be limited compared to larger cities. Visitors may find it challenging to get around without a car.

  4. Limited nightlife: Littlehampton is a smaller town and may not offer as many nightlife options as larger cities. Visitors looking for a vibrant nightlife scene may be disappointed by the limited choices available.

  5. Limited shopping and dining options: While Littlehampton does have a variety of shops and restaurants, the options may be more limited compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for extensive shopping and dining choices may find themselves wanting more variety.

Overall, while Littlehampton offers many attractions and a picturesque coastal setting, visitors should be aware of these potential cons when planning their trip to ensure a pleasant experience.

Littlehampton is a seaside town located on the south coast of England, in West Sussex. Its history is rich and varied, reflecting its development from a small fishing community to a popular seaside resort.

Early History

  • Roman Period: The area around Littlehampton was occupied during the Roman period, as evidenced by archaeological finds in the region. However, the settlement itself does not have any recorded Roman history.

  • Medieval Era: During the medieval period, Littlehampton was a small fishing village. It was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, where it was referred to as "Hantone."

Growth and Development

  • 16th to 18th Century: By the 16th century, Littlehampton evolved into a small port, trading in goods like timber and coal. The town's location at the mouth of the River Arun made it a strategic point for shipping activities.

  • 19th Century: The arrival of the railway in 1863 significantly boosted Littlehampton's growth, making it more accessible and contributing to its development as a seaside resort. During the Victorian era, Littlehampton became popular with tourists, leading to the construction of many of the town's buildings and infrastructure we see today.

Notable Events and Figures

  • World War II: During the Second World War, Littlehampton played a role as a location for military operations. The beaches were fortified, and the town was part of the defensive line against potential invasion.

  • George V Visit: King George V and Queen Mary visited the town in 1912, which marked a significant event in its history.

Landmarks and Attractions

  • Littlehampton Harbour: The harbour has been central to the town's maritime activities for centuries. Today, it serves both commercial and leisure purposes.

  • The Look and Sea Centre: This visitor center and viewing tower provide insights into the town's maritime heritage.

  • Littlehampton Museum: Located in the Manor House, it offers exhibits on the local history, archaeology, and geography of the area.

  • East Beach Café: Designed by the architect Thomas Heatherwick, this modern structure has become an iconic landmark on Littlehampton's seafront.

  • St Mary’s Church: Dating back to the 12th century, this church is one of the oldest buildings in Littlehampton, providing a glimpse into its medieval past.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Littlehampton has continued to thrive as a seaside destination, with ongoing developments aimed at improving its amenities and attracting more visitors. The town hosts various cultural and community events, maintaining its heritage while adapting to contemporary needs.

Littlehampton remains a picturesque town that balances its historical roots with modern-day attractions, making it a unique spot on the English coast.