Why Bognor Regis Is a Great Place to Spend a Winter Weekend

Set perfectly between the sea and the rolling hills of the South Downs, Bognor Regis offers a relaxed coastal break with plenty to explore, even in the winter months. You can enjoy bracing seaside walks and fresh, salty air one moment, then head inland to countryside trails, historic towns and cosy cafés the next.

With a growing mix of independent eateries, local shops, cultural spaces and family friendly attractions, Bognor Regis makes an ideal base for a winter weekend staycation on the south coast, whether you prefer slow exploring or packing plenty into your days.

Here are some ideas on where to stay and how to enjoy Bognor Regis and the surrounding area. Think of it as a pick and mix, shaping your weekend around what suits you best.

Where to Stay

The Royal Norfolk Hotel

Located right in the heart of Bognor Regis and directly opposite the beach, the Royal Norfolk Hotel is hard to miss thanks to its grand frontage. Staying here puts you within walking distance of the seafront, town centre shops, cafés and restaurants, making it a great option if you want everything close by.

The Navigator Hotel

Set right on the beachfront in Aldwick, the Navigator Hotel offers a quieter coastal feel. It is ideal for winter promenade walks and watching the waves, while still being close enough to explore Bognor Regis itself.

The Beachcroft Hotel and Beach Hut Suites

Situated on Felpham Beach, around ten minutes from Bognor Regis, the Beachcroft Hotel offers a peaceful seaside escape with direct beach access. It is perfect for crisp morning walks and cosy evenings after a day out.

Butlin’s Bognor Regis Resort

A popular choice for families, Butlin’s offers accommodation, entertainment and dining all in one place. It also works well as a base for exploring the town, seafront and surrounding area.

The Inglenook Hotel

Located slightly further along the coast, the Inglenook Hotel sits close to quieter beaches and nature reserves. It is well placed for wildlife spotting and day trips to Chichester and the South Downs.

For the Outdoorsy Types

Halnaker Windmill Walk

A much loved South Downs walk leading to wide panoramic views across the countryside and coastline, especially beautiful on clear winter days.

Slindon Woods

A National Trust woodland offering peaceful walks along well marked paths. It is beautiful throughout the year and especially popular in spring when bluebells appear.

Pagham Harbour

A protected nature reserve just outside Bognor Regis, ideal for birdwatching and gentle, flat walks suitable for all ages.

Bognor Regis to Littlehampton Coastal Walk

A scenic coastal route that lets you experience several beaches in one go, with plenty of stops along the way for food, coffee and sea views.

Swanbourne Lake, Arundel

A calm circular walk around a picturesque lake beneath Arundel Castle, perfect for a slower outdoor moment.

Chichester City Walls

A historic route following the outline of the old Roman walls, combining fresh air with glimpses into the city’s past.

For History Lovers

Bognor Regis Museum

A compact and informative museum exploring the town’s seaside heritage and local stories. It is a great option for a rainy afternoon.

Chichester Cathedral
A striking cathedral dating back over 900 years, known for its architecture, artwork and peaceful atmosphere.

Weald and Downland Living Museum

An open air museum featuring historic buildings relocated from across the region, offering an immersive look at rural life through the centuries.

Littlehampton Museum

A friendly museum focusing on the coastal history of Littlehampton and the surrounding area, ideal for a relaxed visit.

Arundel

A historic town centred around its castle and cathedral, with charming streets, antique shops, cafés and riverside walks.

For Independent Shop Seekers

Polkadot Stripes, Bognor Regis

A colourful independent shop filled with gifts, homeware, cards and unique finds. It is the kind of place where browsing turns into discovery.

Déjà Vu, Felpham

A sustainable second hand clothing shop offering carefully curated pieces, perfect for fashion with a conscience.

Pier Road Coffee and Art, Littlehampton

A creative space combining good coffee with artwork from local artists, making it a relaxed stop with something a little different.

Winter’s Moon, Chichester

A beautifully curated shop supporting small makers and independent businesses, ideal for thoughtful gifts.

Isabella Josie Millinery, Arundel

A Bognor Regis based milliner with a stunning shop on Tarrant Street. Arundel itself is packed with independent shops worth exploring.

For Big and Little Kids

The Picturedrome

An all weather entertainment venue offering bowling, games and indoor activities that appeal to a wide range of ages.

Little Piggies

A cosy soft play café designed for younger children, giving parents a chance to relax while little ones play.

Hotham Park

A central green space with walking paths, a playground and café, ideal for fresh air close to the town centre.

The Seafront

The heart of Bognor Regis, offering classic seaside fun including the promenade train, arcades, crazy golf and beach access.

Shweet, Barnham

A family favourite combining gelato, sweet treats and soft play all in one place. It is a great stop for little ones to burn off energy while adults enjoy a coffee or something sweet.

Flying Fortress, Ford

A large indoor soft play centre designed for energetic play, making it a reliable option on rainy days.

Harbour Park, Littlehampton

A traditional seaside amusement park with rides, arcades and attractions that work well for a winter visit.

Priory Park, Chichester

A spacious park offering play areas, open lawns and café facilities, perfect for a slower paced outdoor break.

A winter weekend done your way

Whether you are planning a short stay, a spontaneous weekend away or a slower winter break, Bognor Regis and the surrounding area offer something for every kind of visitor. From coastal walks and countryside views to independent shops, family friendly attractions and rich local history, it is a place that invites you to explore at your own pace.

A winter weekend here does not need to be busy or expensive. Sometimes it is simply about good food, fresh air and discovering what is right on your doorstep.