Frequently Asked Questions about Littlehampton

Common questions answered

Answers to the most common questions about Littlehampton, West Sussex.

What council area is Littlehampton in?

Littlehampton is in the Arun district of West Sussex. Arun District Council provides local services including planning, waste collection, housing and environmental health. West Sussex County Council provides county-level services including education, social care, highways and libraries. Littlehampton also has its own Town Council, which manages parks, allotments, community buildings and local events.

How do I get to Littlehampton by train?

Littlehampton has its own railway station on a branch line from the West Coastway route. Trains run to Ford, where they connect with services to Brighton (approx. 1 hour), Worthing (approx. 25 minutes), Bognor Regis (approx. 15 minutes), Chichester (approx. 30 minutes) and Portsmouth (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes). Services run roughly every 30 minutes during the day. The station is on Terminus Road in the town centre, a short walk from the high street and the seafront.

Is Littlehampton beach sandy?

Yes, East Beach is a sandy beach that stretches from the harbour mouth towards Rustington. It is gently shelving and popular with families. East Beach has been awarded a Blue Flag on multiple occasions. West Beach, on the other side of the River Arun, is a mix of shingle and sand with a wilder character. Climping Beach to the west is also shingle and sand, managed by the National Trust.

Are there lifeguards on the beach?

RNLI lifeguards patrol East Beach during the summer season, typically from late May to early September. The patrolled area is marked by red and yellow flags, and swimmers are advised to stay within the flagged zone. West Beach and Climping Beach do not have lifeguard patrols. Outside the lifeguard season, swimmers are responsible for their own safety.

What is the East Beach Cafe?

The East Beach Cafe is an award-winning seafront restaurant designed by Thomas Heatherwick, who later designed the Olympic Cauldron for the 2012 London Games. The building opened in 2007 and its flowing, sculptural form in rusted steel has become one of Littlehampton's most recognisable landmarks. The cafe serves breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Booking is advisable, particularly at weekends and during school holidays.

Where can I park in Littlehampton?

Arun District Council operates several car parks in the town centre and along the seafront. The East Beach car park is closest to the main beach but fills quickly on sunny summer days. Town centre car parks are less expensive and within a ten-minute walk of the seafront. On-street parking is available in some areas with restrictions. Charges typically apply during the daytime. Check the Arun District Council website for current rates and locations.

What is the Longest Bench?

The Longest Bench is a 324-metre public bench along the seafront promenade, installed in 2010 and claimed as the longest bench in Britain. Designed by Studio Weave, it provides continuous seating with views of the sea and the beach. The bench was part of the public realm improvement programme that also includes the East Beach Cafe, contributing to Littlehampton's reputation for creative public design.

Is there a hospital in Littlehampton?

No, Littlehampton does not have its own hospital. The nearest hospitals with A&E departments are Worthing Hospital (approx. 7 miles east, 20 minutes by car) and St Richard's Hospital in Chichester (approx. 12 miles west, 25-30 minutes by car). For non-emergency health concerns, GP surgeries and pharmacies in the town provide primary care. For urgent medical advice, call NHS 111.

What schools are in Littlehampton?

The Littlehampton Academy is the main secondary school, serving students aged 11-18. Primary schools include St Catherine's Catholic Primary School and White Meadows Primary Academy. Rustington Church of England Primary School also serves some Littlehampton families. Nurseries and pre-school provision are available throughout the town. For school admissions, contact West Sussex County Council.

Can I walk from Littlehampton to Arundel?

Yes, a riverside path follows the River Arun from Littlehampton to Arundel, a distance of approximately four miles each way. The walk passes through water meadows and farmland with views of Arundel Castle, and is mostly flat and accessible. Some sections can be muddy after rain. The walk is one of the finest in the area and can be combined with a visit to Arundel's castle, cathedral, shops and restaurants.

What is Harbour Park?

Harbour Park is a traditional seaside amusement park on the riverfront near the harbour mouth. It offers rides for children and families, arcades, mini-golf and food stalls. Admission to the park is free, with charges for individual rides and attractions. The park operates seasonally, with full opening during school holidays and weekends from Easter to October.

Are dogs allowed on the beach?

Dogs are excluded from the main section of East Beach during the summer months, typically from May to September. Outside these dates, dogs are welcome on all parts of East Beach. West Beach and Climping Beach have no dog restrictions and are popular with dog walkers year-round. Dog owners should clean up after their pets and keep dogs under control near wildlife and other beach users.

What connection does The Body Shop have to Littlehampton?

Anita Roddick, founder of The Body Shop, was born in Littlehampton in 1942. Although the first Body Shop store opened in Brighton in 1976, the company's headquarters and manufacturing operations were based in Littlehampton for many years. The brand's global success brought employment and recognition to the town. Dame Anita Roddick died in 2007, and her legacy as an ethical business pioneer remains part of Littlehampton's story.

What events happen in Littlehampton?

Annual events include the Bonfire Night procession and fireworks (November), the Carnival (summer), Lifeboat Week (supporting the RNLI), the Christmas market and lights switch-on, food festivals, and various community events in the parks and on the harbour. The events calendar is published by Littlehampton Town Council. Events are subject to change, so check locally for current dates and details.

How far is Littlehampton from Brighton?

Littlehampton is approximately 18 miles west of Brighton by road along the A259 and A27. The drive takes around 40 minutes in normal traffic, though this can increase during summer and at peak times. By train, the journey via Ford takes approximately one hour, with services running every 30 minutes. Littlehampton offers a quieter, more traditional seaside experience compared to Brighton's urban energy.