Worthing City Guide

About Worthing – History and Culture

Worthing, located on the Sussex coast, began as a modest fishing hamlet. Its transformation started in the late 18th century when visiting royalty and wealthy families discovered its mild climate and sandy beaches. By the 19th century, Worthing had become a fashionable seaside resort, complete with elegant terraces, a pier, and a promenade. The arrival of the railway in 1845 accelerated growth, bringing day-trippers from London.

The 20th century saw Worthing evolve into a commercial and residential hub. Despite modernization, the town retains much of its Victorian architecture, especially along the seafront and in the central conservation area. Worthing also developed a reputation for market gardening, particularly for tomatoes grown in the region's glasshouses. Culturally, the town has a strong tradition of music and theatre, with venues like the Connaught Theatre and the Pavilion Theatre.

Today, Worthing is a vibrant community that balances heritage with contemporary living. Its cultural scene includes the annual Worthing Festival, independent galleries, and a growing food scene. The town's identity is shaped by its coastal location, its proximity to the South Downs, and a diverse population that includes families, retirees, and creative professionals.

• Worthing Pier – a classic Victorian pier with amusement arcades and cafes
• Worthing Museum & Art Gallery – local history and fine art collections
• Highdown Gardens – a beautiful chalk garden with rare plants
• Cissbury Ring – an Iron Age hillfort offering panoramic views
• The Dome Cinema – one of the oldest surviving cinemas in Britain
• St. Mary's Church – a medieval parish church with Norman origins
• Worthing's Victorian seafront architecture, including the Grand Victorian Hotel

Did You Know? – Facts about Worthing

Worthing is known for its unique character and many interesting facets. The town's climate is one of the sunniest in the UK, partly due to the shelter provided by the South Downs. This mild weather once supported a thriving tomato-growing industry, earning Worthing the nickname 'Tomato Town'. The town also has a strong sporting heritage, including the annual Worthing Birdman competition, where participants attempt to fly off the pier using homemade wings.

Beyond quirks, Worthing boasts notable cultural and historical facts. The town's museum houses a significant collection of archaeological finds from the local area, including Roman remains. Worthing was also the birthplace of several notable figures, such as the actress Dame Flora Robson and the artist John Bratby. Additionally, the town's seafront has been used as a filming location for various TV shows and movies due to its classic seaside appeal.

• Worthing receives more sunshine hours than most UK towns (over 1,750 hours per year)
• The first recorded market in Worthing was granted in 1803
• Worthing's beach has been awarded Blue Flag status multiple times
• The town has one of the highest concentrations of Grade II listed buildings in Sussex
• Worthing was a key location for the development of the early UK film industry
• The local football club, Worthing FC, was founded in 1886
• Worthing has a dedicated 'Worthing Pride' event celebrating LGBTQ+ culture
• The town is home to the Castle Goring, a historic country house
• Worthing's population density is lower than nearby Brighton, offering more space
• Every year, the Worthing International Birdman competition attracts thousands of spectators

Geography and Climate of Worthing

Worthing is situated on the southern coast of England in West Sussex, bounded by the English Channel to the south and the South Downs National Park to the north. The town extends along the coast from the Adur River in the east to Goring-by-Sea in the west. The urban area is relatively low-lying, but the northern suburbs rise towards the chalk escarpment of the Downs.

The climate is classified as temperate oceanic with warm summers and cool winters. Due to its south-facing position and the shelter of the Downs, Worthing is one of the sunniest places in the UK. Rainfall is moderate, and snowfall is rare. The town has several distinct neighborhoods, including the central town area, the beachfront, and residential suburbs like Broadwater, Tarring, and Durrington.

• Average summer temperatures: 20-22°C, occasionally reaching 28°C
• Average winter temperatures: 2-8°C, frost is infrequent
• Annual rainfall: around 750mm, lower than the UK average
• Beach is mainly shingle but with sandy patches at low tide
• South Downs provide scenic hiking trails and views
• Boroughs include Worthing, Broadwater, Goring, and West Worthing
• Natural features: the Adur Estuary, Highdown Hill, and the Goring Gap

Things to Do in Worthing

Worthing offers a wide range of activities for visitors and residents alike. From its historic pier and beach to cultural venues and green spaces, there is something for everyone. The town is also a gateway to the South Downs, offering outdoor adventures.

Food & Dining

Worthing's dining scene has evolved significantly, with a mix of traditional pubs, seafood restaurants, and international cuisine. The seafront area has many cafes and fish and chip shops, while the town centre boasts bistros and fine dining. Local specialities include fresh Sussex produce, particularly lamb and seafood.

Notable dining districts include Chapel Road and the seafront promenade. There is also a growing number of independent coffee shops and bakeries. For those seeking a memorable meal, restaurants like 'Tides' and 'The Terrace' offer modern British cuisine with views.

• Fresh seafood at 'The Fish Factory'
• Traditional fish and chips on the pier
• Sunday roasts at historic pubs like 'The Salisbury'
• Italian cuisine at 'Da Vinci's'
• Indian curry at 'The Rajdoot'
• Fine dining at 'The Manor House'
• Vegan options at 'Roots' and 'Wild Café'
• Farmers' market produce every month

Festivals & Events

Worthing hosts a calendar of events throughout the year, celebrating arts, culture, and community spirit. The summer months are particularly lively with outdoor concerts and fairs. The Worthing Festival is the highlight, spanning several weeks with performances, workshops, and parades.

Other events include the Worthing Birdman competition, a quirky spectacle on the pier, and the Worthing Food and Drink Festival. The town also marks traditional holidays with fireworks, Christmas markets, and the Worthing Half Marathon.

• Worthing Festival (July-August)
• Worthing Birdman (August)
• Worthing Food and Drink Festival (September)
• Worthing Pride (July)
• Worthing Arts Trail (June)
• Christmas Light Switch and Market (November-December)
• Worthing Half Marathon (April)
• Heritage Open Days (September)

Cultural Attractions

Worthing has a vibrant cultural scene with museums, galleries, and theatres. The Worthing Museum & Art Gallery houses extensive collections of costume, archaeology, and fine art. The Dome Cinema dates back to 1911 and still shows films, while the Connaught Theatre hosts plays and musicals.

Additionally, the town has several independent art galleries, such as the Colonnade House, and the Worthing Theatres combine classic and contemporary performances. The annual Worthing Festival includes many cultural events.

• Worthing Museum & Art Gallery – free entry, local history
• The Connaught Theatre – West End shows and pantos
• The Dome Cinema – silent films, blockbusters
• Pavilion Theatre – concerts by the sea
• Colonnade House – contemporary art exhibitions
• Highdown Gardens – historic garden with visitor centre
• Worthing Library – events and exhibitions
• St. Paul's Church – cultural venue for concerts

Outdoor Activities

The natural surroundings of Worthing provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The seafront is ideal for walking, cycling, and water sports. The South Downs National Park offers hiking and mountain biking trails, while the Adur Estuary is popular for birdwatching.

Worthing has many parks and green spaces, including Beach House Park, Homefield Park, and the Brooklands Park. The town also has a golf course and a boating lake. For families, the beach and the nearby English Heritage site of Cissbury Ring are great day trips.

• Walking along the promenade from Worthing to Goring
• Cycling routes along the coast and into the Downs
• Swimming at the Worthing Leisure Centre or the sea
• Kitesurfing and windsurfing at Goring Gap
• Birdwatching at the Adur Estuary nature reserve
• Golf at Worthing Golf Club
• Tennis at courts in Beach House Park
• Fishing from the pier or boat trips
• Jogging on the green paths of Homefield Park
• Picnicking at Highdown Gardens
• Horse riding on South Downs bridleways

Economy and Key Industries

Worthing's economy is diverse, with strengths in services, retail, tourism, and healthcare. The town has a historic connection to market gardening, but modern industries include financial services, digital media, and creative arts. Worthing is also a commuter base for Brighton and London, with many residents working in those cities.

The local economy benefits from a growing tech sector, particularly in the creative and digital industries. Worthing has several business parks and incubators. Tourism remains important, with visitors attracted by the beach and cultural events. In addition, the town's hospital and medical centres are major employers.

Major employers include Worthing Hospital (part of Western Sussex Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust), the local council, and various retail chains. The town also has a strong independent sector, from shops to restaurants. Recent developments include the regeneration of the town centre and the creation of more office spaces.

• Healthcare – Worthing Hospital and clinics
• Retail – main shopping streets and the Montague Centre
• Tourism – hospitality, attractions, events
• Digital and creative – agencies, studios, freelancers
• Finance – banking, insurance firms
• Construction – housebuilding and infrastructure
• Education – schools and colleges
• Manufacturing – light industry in industrial estates

Where to Live in Worthing

Worthing offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit different lifestyles. The town centre is lively and convenient, with a mix of apartments and period flats. Families often prefer the suburbs of Broadwater, West Worthing, and Goring, which have good schools and parks. Salvington and Findon Valley are popular for those seeking a semi-rural feel on the slopes of the Downs.

The seafront area features Victorian terraces and many converted properties, ideal for those who love coastal living. Tarring is a historic village within Worthing, known for its medieval church and cottages. Durrington is a newer area with modern housing estates and good transport links.

House prices vary significantly: central areas are more affordable than the prime seafront or Downs-view locations. Rental demand is high, particularly for one-bedroom flats and family houses. Overall, Worthing is considered a relatively affordable alternative to Brighton while still offering seaside charm.

• Worthing Central – urban, close to shops and transport
• Broadwater – family-friendly, park, schools
• West Worthing – residential, near beach and station
• Goring-by-Sea – quiet suburb with sea views
• Tarring – historic village, narrow streets
• Salvington – leafy, on the hill, good schools
• Durrington – modern homes, good for commuters
• Findon Valley – semi-rural, larger properties
• East Worthing – regeneration area, affordable housing

Formalities and Visas in Worthing

As part of the United Kingdom, Worthing follows UK immigration laws. Visitors from most countries need a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter. Tourists from the EU, US, Canada, Australia, and many others can visit for up to 6 months without a visa (subject to change). For longer stays, work or study visas are required.

The UK has a points-based immigration system. Common visa routes include the Skilled Worker visa, Student visa, and Family visa. Applications are made online through the Home Office. Worthing itself does not have a visa office; applications are processed in London or via visa application centres abroad.

New residents must register with the local council for council tax, open a bank account, and obtain a National Insurance number for work. The town has a population registration office for new arrivals. It is advisable to check the latest UK immigration rules before moving.

• Tourist visa waiver for many nationalities (up to 6 months)
• Standard Visitor visa for non-visa waiver countries
• Skilled Worker visa – points-based, requires employer sponsorship
• Student visa – for full-time courses at recognised institutions
• Health and Care Worker visa – for medical professionals
• Family visa – for spouses, partners, dependents
• Global Talent visa – for leaders in arts, science, tech
• Ancestry visa – for Commonwealth citizens with UK grandparents
• Youth Mobility Scheme – for young people from certain countries
• Indefinite Leave to Remain – after 5 years of residence
• British citizenship – possible after meeting residency requirements

Working in Worthing

The job market in Worthing is competitive but offers opportunities in several sectors. Healthcare is a major employer, with Worthing Hospital and community clinics providing roles for doctors, nurses, and support staff. Retail and hospitality also offer many positions, especially in the town centre and along the seafront.

Professional services such as finance, law, and IT are present, with many firms serving the local area. Self-employment and freelancing are common, particularly in creative fields like design, photography, and writing. Commuting to Brighton (20 minutes by train) or London (1 hour 20 minutes) opens additional job options.

Work culture in Worthing is relaxed but professional. The normal working week is Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, with some service sector jobs on weekends. Networking events and business groups are active. The town has a growing start-up scene, supported by co-working spaces like 'The Platform' and 'Worthing Works'.

• Healthcare – doctors, nurses, therapists, admin
• Retail – sales, management, merchandising
• Hospitality – restaurants, hotels, catering
• Education – teaching and support staff
• Digital – web development, marketing, content
• Construction – trades, project management
• Financial services – banking, insurance, accounting
• Public sector – council, civil service
• Creative arts – design, performing, music
• Freelance opportunities – writing, consulting, photography

Studying in Worthing

Worthing offers a range of educational institutions from primary schools to further education colleges. The town has several state primary and secondary schools, many rated 'Good' or 'Outstanding' by Ofsted. There are also private schools, including Lancer International School and Our Lady of Sion School.

For higher education, Northbrook College is part of the Chichester College Group, offering vocational courses, A-levels, and apprenticeships. Worthing is within commuting distance of universities in Brighton (University of Sussex, University of Brighton) and Chichester (University of Chichester). These provide undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

Student life in Worthing is quieter than in larger cities but still offers social activities, with a number of student-friendly cafes and pubs. Accommodation options include private rentals and homestays. The town's library and study spaces are available for students.

• Primary schools: many with good Ofsted ratings
• Secondary schools: Davison High School, Worthing High School
• Private schools: Our Lady of Sion, Lancer International
• Further education: Northbrook College, Chichester College extensions
• University options: Commuter to University of Sussex (Brighton) or University of Chichester
• Apprenticeships in local businesses
• English language schools for international students
• Adult education courses at local community centres
• Student discount cards available for transport and shopping
• Library with study spaces and free Wi-Fi
• Part-time work opportunities in retail/hospitality

Finance and Banks in Worthing

Worthing has a full range of banking services. Major high street banks including Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC, and NatWest have branches in the town centre. There are also building societies like Nationwide and Yorkshire Building Society. For everyday banking, many people use online-only banks (Monzo, Revolut) as well.

Opening a bank account generally requires proof of identity and address. Non-residents may need additional documentation. Digital payments are widely accepted, including contactless cards and mobile wallets. Cash is less commonly used but still accepted. Currency exchange services are available at banks and post offices.

Taxes include income tax (Pay As You Earn) and National Insurance for employees. Self-employed individuals must file annual tax returns. The local council collects council tax (monthly or annually). For business, VAT is applicable at the standard rate. Financial advisors are available for investment and pension planning.

• Major banks: Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC, NatWest
• Building societies: Nationwide, Yorkshire, Skipton
• Online banking widely used; many branches also offer online services
• Opening a basic bank account requires proof of address (utility bill, tenancy agreement)
• Contactless payments accepted almost everywhere
• Post office offers basic banking services (deposits, withdrawals, bill payments)
• Income tax: deducted automatically from salary via PAYE
• National Insurance contributions for government benefits
• Council tax: varies by property band, typically £1,500-£2,000 per year

Health Care in Worthing

The National Health Service (NHS) provides most healthcare in Worthing. Worthing Hospital is the main acute hospital, offering emergency and specialist services. General practice is provided by several GP surgeries across the town, which residents must register with for non-emergency care. There are also dental practices, but many require private payment or NHS registration.

Urgent care is available at the hospital's A&E department or at the Urgent Treatment Centre. For mental health, the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust offers support. Pharmacies are spread throughout Worthing for minor ailments and prescriptions. Private healthcare is also available, with clinics offering faster access to specialists.

New residents should register with a GP as soon as possible. For EU citizens, a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) may cover some care. Private health insurance can be purchased for faster access. The town also has several care homes and community health services.

• Worthing Hospital – full A&E, maternity, surgical wards
• Urgent Treatment Centre – for non-life-threatening injuries
• GP surgeries: many accept new patients, list on NHS website
• Dentists: NHS and private options available
• Pharmacies: Boots, Lloyds, independent chemists
• Mental health support: IAPT services, counselling
• Community health clinics – vaccinations, physiotherapy
• Care homes for elderly and disabled
• Private hospitals: Nuffield Health in nearby Brighton
• Health insurance: BUPA, AXA, etc.

Accommodation in Worthing

Housing in Worthing ranges from Victorian terraces and seaside apartments to modern estates and period homes. The most sought-after areas are near the seafront, such as the Grand Avenue and Marine Parade, which have stunning views. Central areas offer more affordable flats, while suburbs like Broadwater and Goring have family houses with gardens.

Renting is common, with average rents for a one-bedroom flat around £750-£900 per month, and three-bedroom houses around £1,200-£1,600. Buying a property typically costs £300,000-£500,000 for a semi-detached house, with flats from £200,000. The market can be competitive, so early viewing and mortgage pre-approval are advised.

• Rental: average 1-bed flat £800 pcm; 3-bed house £1,400 pcm
• Buying: average house price £350,000; stamp duty and legal fees extra
• Popular neighbourhoods: Marine Parade for views, Broadwater for families
• New developments: Durrington and East Worthing have new build homes

Planning Your Move to Worthing

Relocating to Worthing requires careful planning. First, secure accommodation either by renting temporarily or buying. Arrange for utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet) to be connected. Notify your bank, employer, and relevant authorities of your change of address. If moving from abroad, ensure you have the correct visa and have made arrangements for health insurance and banking.

Check if you need to register with the local council for council tax. You will need to register with a GP and dentist. Arrange schooling for children by contacting the local education authority. For transport, register for a local bus pass or railcard. Also, consider getting a UK driving licence if you plan to drive.

• Research the cost of living and set a budget
• Sort out visa and legal documentation
• Book a temporary stay (hotel, AirBnB) while looking for permanent housing
• Set up bank account and transfer funds
• Arrange health insurance if not covered by NHS
• Register with a GP surgery immediately after arriving
• Enroll children in school – contact West Sussex County Council
• Apply for a National Insurance number for work
• Notify utilities and internet providers; many require contracts
• Sign up for local services: waste collection, council tax
• Explore transport options: purchase a railcard if commuting
• Join local community groups to get advice and support

Leisure in Worthing

Evenings and weekends in Worthing offer diverse leisure options. The town has a reasonable nightlife with pubs, bars, and clubs scattered mainly in the town centre. Pubs range from traditional locals to gastropubs. Montague Street and Liverpool Gardens are lively spots. For shopping, the Montague Centre and Chapel Road have high-street brands, while independent shops are found on Rowlands Road and in the city centre.

Entertainment includes the Connaught Theatre for plays, the Dome Cinema for films, and live music at The Factory and The William IV. There are also escape rooms, bowling alleys, and a cinema chain. For relaxation, the beach provides a perfect setting for sunsets.

• Nightlife: pubs like The Brooksteed Ale House, clubs like Factory
• Shopping: Montague Centre (major chains), independent shops on Rowlands Road
• Entertainment: Connaught Theatre (plays), Dome Cinema (films), Splashpoint Leisure Centre (swimming/gym)
• Bowling and arcades: on the pier
• Escape rooms: Escape Worthing

Transportation Options in Worthing

Worthing is well-connected by road and rail. The main railway station is Worthing, which is on the London to Brighton line with direct services to London Victoria (about 1 hour 20 minutes), Brighton (20 minutes), and Chichester (30 minutes). There are also stations at West Worthing, Durrington-on-Sea, and Goring-by-Sea. The A27 runs north of the town, connecting east-west traffic, while the A24 goes north to London.

Local buses, operated by Compass Travel and Stagecoach, cover the town and surrounding villages. For international travel, Gatwick Airport is about 40 minutes by train, and Heathrow is about 1.5 hours via road or train. Southampton Airport is also accessible. Within the town, cycling is popular, with cycle lanes along the seafront and quiet suburban roads.

• Rail: Worthing station (frequent trains to London Victoria, Brighton, Chichester)
• Bus: extensive network; day and week passes available
• Road: A27 (east-west), A24 (north to London), M23/A23 for Gatwick
• Cycling: dedicated coastal path; bike rental available
• Airports: Gatwick (40 min by train), Heathrow (1.5 hr)
• Ferries: Newhaven to Dieppe (about 1 hour drive)
• Taxis: Uber available, local firms

Everyday Life in Worthing

Daily life in Worthing is generally relaxed. The community is friendly and diverse. The seafront offers a beautiful setting for walks or lunch breaks. The town centre is bustling with shops and cafes. Safety is adequate; like any town, there are some areas to avoid at night, but overall it is a safe place to live.

Public services such as waste collection, libraries, and parks are well-maintained. The town has a farmers' market on the first Saturday of each month. There are many community groups and clubs, from sports to hobbies. For families, there are numerous playgrounds and family-friendly events.

• Community events: regular markets, fairs, and seasonal celebrations
• Safety: relatively low crime, but standard precautions apply
• Public services: efficient council, good street cleaning
• Local amenities: parks, libraries, leisure centres all within reach

Cost of Living in Worthing

Living in Worthing is slightly above the UK average but cheaper than Brighton or London. Housing is the largest expense, with rents and purchase prices having risen in recent years. Groceries and dining out are typical for the region. Transport costs can be controlled by using public transport or cycling.

Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) average around £150-200 per month. Council tax bands range from A to H; a typical Band D property pays about £1,800 per year. Overall, a single person might need £1,500-£2,000 per month to live comfortably, while a family of four might require £3,000-£4,000.

• Rent: 1-bed flat £800 pcm; 3-bed house £1,400 pcm
• Utilities: £150-200 per month
• Council tax: approx. £1,800 for Band D
• Groceries: £200-300 per month for a single person
• Dining out: £15-25 per person for a meal
• Public transport: bus pass £60 per month; rail season to Brighton £1,500/year

Places to Visit in Worthing

There are many attractions in and around Worthing. The seafront and pier are must-sees, with amusements, cafes, and stunning sea views. Highdown Gardens is a beautiful chalk garden with a variety of rare plants. Cissbury Ring, an Iron Age hillfort, offers panoramic views of the coast and countryside.

The Worthing Museum & Art Gallery showcases local history and art. The Dome Cinema is a historic gem showing classic and new films. For nature lovers, the Adur Estuary provides birdwatching and peaceful walks. The town also has several parks: Beach House Park, Homefield Park, and Brooklands Park.

Further afield, the South Downs National Park offers endless walking and cycling routes. Nearby towns like Arundel (with its castle) and Brighton (with the Royal Pavilion and vibrant nightlife) are easily accessible. The historic village of Steyning and the Cuckoo Trail are popular day trips.

• Worthing Pier – iconic Victorian pier, amusements, cafes
• Highdown Gardens – award-winning gardens on a hill
• Cissbury Ring – prehistoric hillfort, free entry
• Worthing Museum & Art Gallery – local history collections
• The Dome Cinema – oldest working cinema in Britain
• Beach House Park – formal gardens, tennis courts
• Adur Estuary – nature reserve, bird hides
• Brooklands Park – large park with lake and trails
• Worthing Leisure Centre – swimming, gym, sports
• Goring Gap – scenic coastal walk and nature area
• St. Mary's Church – historic church with stained glass
• House of the Bishops of Argyll – medieval building

News & Testimonies

Worthing has seen positive developments recently, including regeneration of the town centre with new shops, restaurants, and public spaces. The seafront has benefited from improvements, and new housing developments are in progress. The town continues to attract new residents relocating from London and other cities.

Residents often praise Worthing for its friendly community, beautiful coastal setting, and good transport links. Testimonies highlight the abundance of independent businesses and cultural events. Some concerns include the need for more affordable housing and better nightlife options, but overall satisfaction is high.

• "Worthing has a wonderful sense of community, and the beach is amazing." – Sarah, local business owner
• "I moved from London for a better quality of life. Worthing is perfect for families." – Mark, software developer
• "The cultural scene is surprisingly vibrant for a town this size." – Emily, artist
• "I love the independent shops and cafes; it's a very walkable town." – Tom, retired teacher
• "The transport links to Brighton and London are excellent." – James, commuter

Forum Topics on Living in Worthing

Online forums for Worthing residents cover a variety of topics. Common discussions include the best areas to live, schools, and commuting tips. Many threads focus on property prices and rental availability. There are also debates about local developments, such as new housing estates and road changes.

Other popular topics include recommendations for doctors, dentists, and tradespeople. Newcomers often ask about social groups and activities for adults and children. The general consensus is that Worthing is a great place to live, though parking can be a challenge in central areas.

• "What are the best schools in Worthing?"
• "Commuting to London – is it worth it?"
• "Where to live in Worthing with a budget of £300,000?"
• "Dog-friendly beaches and parks?"
• "Best restaurants for a special occasion"
• "Parking tips for town centre residents"
• "Internet and broadband providers"
• "Local gyms and fitness classes"
• "Volunteering opportunities in the area"
• "Safety concerns – areas to avoid?"

Life in Worthing Summary

Worthing offers a high quality of life, with a stunning coastal location, a mild climate, and a thriving community. The town combines small-town charm with city convenience: excellent transport links, diverse dining, and ample leisure activities. It is particularly appealing to families, professionals, and retirees seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Challenges include higher housing costs than some inland areas, and the town can be busy during summer months. However, the benefits of living by the sea, with the South Downs on the doorstep, far outweigh the drawbacks. For many, Worthing is an ideal place to call home.

• Pros: beautiful beach, strong community, good schools, transport
• Cons: housing can be pricey, parking issues, seasonal crowds
• Best for: families, commuters, outdoor enthusiasts
• Overall: a vibrant seaside town with a bright future

Important Places and Distances from Worthing

Worthing town centre has several key landmarks. The main shopping area is around Montague Street and the Montague Centre. The beach and pier are a short walk away. The railway station is on the eastern side of the centre. Major distances from town centre: Worthing Hospital is about 1 mile west; West Worthing station is 1.5 miles; Highdown Gardens is 2 miles north; Cissbury Ring is 3 miles north-east.

• Worthing Hospital – 1.5 km (1 mile) west
• West Worthing railway station – 2 km (1.2 miles) west
• Highdown Gardens – 3.2 km (2 miles) north
• Cissbury Ring – 5 km (3 miles) north-east
• Goring-by-Sea station – 4 km (2