Newhaven is an industrious port town set at the mouth of the River Ouse. Hunt for fossils on the shingle beach, explore a 19th-century coastal fort and visit a family-friendly theme park. Ferries make Newhaven a popular launchpad for travellers heading to France.
Things to do in Newhaven
Even on the hottest days, it’s easy to find your own patch of sand on West Beach. It’s set at the river mouth and framed by soaring sea cliffs. Swim, sunbathe and hunt for fossils in the shingle sand. From the beach, you can enjoy fantastic views of ferries sailing out of Newhaven Harbour towards France.
Newhaven Fort towers over the coast and is reimagined as an award-winning historic attraction. It was completed in 1871 and played a critical role in World War I and World War II. Engaging exhibits chart the legacy of the coastal stronghold. Explore a maze of underground tunnels and climb up to the ramparts for breathtaking views across the English Channel.
Learn about dinosaurs, fossils, minerals and rare plants at Paradise Park. The family-friendly theme park is set in a lush tropical garden and features themed zones spotlighting natural history, conservation and more. Get up close with life-size dinosaurs, explore flower-strewn garden trails and climb aboard the miniature train.
Stroll around Newhaven’s picturesque marinas and get a feel for life in the bustling seaport. The first is set on the Ouse River and filled with colourful houseboats and charming paddle steamers. Upmarket West Quay is a hub for sleek yachts and pleasure boats.
Excellent cafes, pubs and restaurants give Newhaven a lively feel. You’ll find everything from cosy tearooms and Italian-style delis to family-owned fishmongers selling oysters, scallops and sea bass unpacked straight off the boat.
Getting around Newhaven
Newhaven is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The town is in East Sussex, a 25-minute drive from Brighton and two hours from London. Trains run between London and Newhaven in under two hours, while daily ferries connect Newhaven with Dieppe on the Normandy coast. Heathrow Airport is a two-hour drive away.