Family time is always precious. Travelling with kids can sometimes be hard work but luckily that perfect holiday spot might be closer than you think… Worthing makes the ideal weekend break destination – packed full of activities but with space – the sea and South Downs National Park to ensure everyone feels the benefits.
Just 80 mins direct by train from London Victoria, Worthing is easy to get to and easy to get around – perfect for a mini staycation.
Voted the Times newspaper number one seaside destination that ‘everyone’s going to be talking about in Summer 2022’, here’s our suggestions to make the most of your family weekend in Worthing:
Accommodation: Alongside three independent hotels – The Burlington, The Ardington and The Chatsworth, a number of chains Travelodge and Premier Inn, Worthing also has a whole host of self catering options to suit all group sizes.
Day 1
Breakfast – Worthing is packed with young families, so you’ll be hard pushed to find somewhere to eat which isn’t family friendly. If you’re looking for a good breakfast spot try The Orchard Cafe, Coast Cafe or Palm Court Pavilion in Beach House Park.
Morning Kick off the weekend with a creative kids workshop at Worthing Museum and Gallery – you’ll also be able to see the costume, toy and local history exhibitions or enjoy making and painting at Art-ful Pottery Cafe.
Lunch Head up to the Highdown Hotel or the Highdown Cafe for lunch
Afternoon Kids will love exploring Highdown Gardens (entry free) – pick up a copy of the Junior Tree trail to uncover fascinating facts about the rare plants and trees at Highdown. You could also next door explore Highdown Hill which forms part of the South Downs National Park.
Late afternoon Book in for a show ! Worthing Theatres has a rolling programme of top class performances and shows for all ages at both the Connaught and Pavilion Theatres – check out our Whats On section for the latest shows. Or catch a blockbuster at the Vintage Worthing Dome or Connaught Cinemas.
Dinner Head back into town to one of our family friendly restaurants – Fiordilatte Pizza on Warwick Street, the Perch on the Pier or the Beach House all have dedicated kids menus – as do many other venues
Photo by Liz Finlayson/Vervate
Day 2
Start the day by exploring the natural beach environment – Worthing Coastal Office has fantastic new Marine Warrior backpacks for kids which are made from recycled materials and can be hired for free. The packs include a compass, magnifying glass, net and a bucket and spade plus a rocky shore guide for parents and carers to help identify beach finds.
If the weather is fine – kids will love to cool off in the Splash Pad – water jets and Splash Point water mist (opposite Crabshack).
Lunch A trip to the seaside wouldn’t be complete without fish and chips – Chipwick is a local favourite and ice cream – try family run Giuseppe’s Lite or Boho Gelato.
Afternoon Smaller kids will be happy to keep it simple and enjoy one of Worthing’s seafront playgrounds – Gull Island or Waterwise. For older kids head out onto the water for a SUP or Kayak with the K66 Board riders crew – lessons bookable in advance, try your hand at Mini Golf or hire a bike through our Donkey Bike scheme and pedal along the prom.
Dinner Everyone will be hungry after such a busy day – so just time for some dinner before you head for home. Check out our food and drink section for loads of inspiration.
