Why You Should Visit Worthing

Nestled between the rolling South Downs and the sparkling waters of the Channel, Worthing blends rich history, elegant architecture, and modern-day attractions with effortless charm 

Often overshadowed by its livelier neighbour Brighton, Worthing offers a more relaxed but equally engaging alternative for visitors. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply in search of a classic seaside experience, Worthing has something to offer. 

A Town Steeped in History 

Worthing’s roots stretch back to the Stone Age, with evidence of ancient settlements on the South Downs which nestle around this coastal town. The Cissbury Ring is one of the largest Iron Age hill forts in England dating back over 5,000 years, it’s also known for its Neolithic flint mines and a collection of excavated axe heads and other items can be found in Worthing Museum. 

The name ‘Worthing’ derives from the Anglo-Saxon ‘Weorðingas,’ meaning ‘people of Weorð’. The name evolved over time and has appeared in various historical documents as ‘Wyrtingas’, ‘Wordinges’ and ‘Wurthing’, finally settling in the current form of Worthing. 

In Roman times, Worthing was a quiet fishing settlement, and the town remained relatively small and unremarkable until the Georgian era. Then, during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Worthing began to develop into a fashionable seaside resort, popular with the well-heeled London set, seeking the health benefits of sea air and saltwater bathing. Princess Amelia, daughter of King George III, visited Worthing in 1798 to convalesce, helping to spark its popularity among the aristocracy. 

Architectural Highlights 

Worthing’s growth as a resort town during the Georgian and Victorian times has left an impressive architectural legacy. Many of its elegant seafront terraces, crescents, and villas date from this period, including the early 19th century Liverpool Terrace, which was built in Regency style, with imposing facade and wrought iron balconies. 

The Dome Cinema, which opened in 1911, is one of the oldest working cinemas in the UK. This beautiful Edwardian building, topped with a green copper dome, is a fine example of early 20th-century leisure architecture and continues to serve as a working cinema and cultural venue today. 

Another architectural gem is Beach House, built in 1820, it’s one of the oldest surviving examples of a Regency seaside villa in the UK and while it is not always open to the public, the house sits in a pleasant park setting making it ideal for a leisurely walk or picnic. 

Attractions and Places to Visit 

Worthing’s long pebble beach and traditional pier make it a quintessential British seaside destination. The Worthing Pier, which dates to 1862 (although it has been rebuilt several times due to storm damage and fire), was the proud recipient of the ‘Pier of the Year’ award in 2019. Today, it features amusements, the Pavilion Atrium, and charming views over the Channel. 

Just a short walk from the pier lies Worthing Museum and Art Gallery, which is temporarily closed currently, to facilitate a sustainable energy project to reduce carbon emissions and support Worthing’s Climate Neutral Strategy. The museum, which houses costume and textile collections and galleries that explore the town’s history, will re-open in the winter 2025. 

The South Downs National Park and Cissbury Ring sit just north of Worthing offering walkers, nature-lovers and history enthusiasts alike, a more rural landscape. Nearby, Highdown Gardens is home to a collection of rare plants and trees, the gardens are free to enter and provide a peaceful retreat with fantastic sea views. 

Families can also enjoy Brooklands Park, which offers a boating lake, playgrounds, and a miniature railway. 

Cultural Life and Events 

Worthing has a thriving cultural scene with the Connaught Theatre and Pavilion Theatre offering a varied programme of plays, concerts, films, and live events throughout the year. 

The town also hosts several summer festival events, including More Radio Live and Sussex Living Garden Party in Steyne Gardens and the popular Worthing Festival. 

Worthing’s growing café culture and restaurant scene add to its appeal. Independent coffee shops, traditional fish and chip outlets, and restaurants offering global cuisine make it an excellent destination for food lovers. For local produce and unique finds, the Worthing Artisan Market and Steyne Gardens Markets are held regularly. 

A Coastal Town with Character 

Perhaps what makes Worthing so compelling is its blend of old and new. The town retains the genteel elegance of its Georgian past, visible in its architecture and wide promenade, yet it embraces a creative, youthful energy with its galleries, events, and independent businesses. It’s a town where you can walk through history, relax by the sea, and enjoy a cultural evening. Take a visit and discover its appeal for yourself.