Living in Littlehampton

Littlehampton is known for its welcoming and neighbourly spirit, with a community-led feel that extends from the town centre to residential suburbs. Local life is enriched by regular markets, charity fairs, and high-participation annual events like the Littlehampton Carnival and Bonfire Night. Weekly markets in the high street offer fresh produce and local crafts, providing social hubs for residents.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, there are extensive riverside walks, peaceful parks such as Mewsbrook Park, and access to the beach and promenade. The town supports an active sports scene with local clubs for cricket, football, and sailing, and there are leisure centres providing swimming and fitness facilities. Community centres around town host activities for all ages, from youth groups to senior socials.

With its blend of seaside calm and social engagement, Littlehampton maintains a lively yet relaxed local lifestyle, anchored by a proud maritime heritage and strong community networks.

Safety and crime rates in Littlehampton are typical for a mixed coastal town, with some areas more sought-after for their reputation and community feel. Crime in Littlehampton is comparable to other towns of its size, with the majority being low-level incidents such as anti-social behaviour and minor theft.

Central parts of Littlehampton and the seafront are generally safe and benefit from a visible police presence, especially during busy tourist seasons. Regeneration in the town and community safety initiatives, such as Neighbourhood Watch and increased CCTV in certain areas, have contributed to an improved sense of security. Families and retirees often cite the area’s safety and welcoming atmosphere, while new residential developments continue to benefit from modern safety standards and lighting.

Although, like many towns, some neighbourhoods record higher crime rates, residents typically describe the overall feeling in Littlehampton as secure and community-focused.

Parking in Littlehampton is generally straightforward, especially in residential areas and along the seafront, where a mix of free and pay-and-display spots are available. The town operates a residents' permit scheme in certain zones close to the centre, ensuring locals have priority access. On-street and public car parks serve the town centre, the harbour, and beach areas, though seafront spaces can fill up on sunny summer days.

Littlehampton has convenient road access via the A259 for east-west travel and is a short drive from the A27, which connects to major regional destinations and networks. Traffic is moderate compared to nearby cities, but peak-season congestion can occur, particularly on sunny weekends or during events. The roads are well-maintained and suitable for both local and commuter travel.

• Worthing – approx. 25 minutes via A259 (10 miles)
• Bognor Regis – 20 minutes via A259 (8 miles)
• Chichester – 30 minutes via A27 (14 miles)
• Arundel – 15 minutes via A284 (5 miles)

The proximity of trunk roads makes Littlehampton a practical base for journeys along the south coast and towards inland Sussex and Surrey.

Littlehampton’s food and drink scene has a strong coastal influence, with a mix of traditional pubs, family-owned restaurants, and café terraces along the seafront and harbour. Popular spots include the architecturally striking East Beach Café, known for its modern British menu and sea views, and The Arun View Inn, offering waterfront dining.

Several cosy pubs, such as The Steam Packet and The Crown, give a nod to the town’s maritime past, while modern bars and coffee shops add a contemporary touch. The area around the town centre and river hosts several takeaways, fish and chip shops, and bakeries, catering to visitors and locals alike.

Nightlife in Littlehampton is relaxed, with a handful of bars and seasonal events rather than late-night clubs. Occasional live music, quiz nights, and community gatherings contribute to a sociable atmosphere, while neighbouring Worthing or Brighton offer livelier night scenes for those looking for more options.

School quality: Littlehampton is well-served by good primary and secondary schools, with specialised support available and further education close by. Parents often praise the town’s supportive teaching staff and community-driven ethos.

Parks and green space: A range of parks, playgrounds, and open green areas provide plenty of space for children to play. The seafront and Mewsbrook Park are especially popular for family days out.

Childcare: Nurseries, playgroups, and after-school clubs can be found within the town, with options catering for both younger children and infants. Childcare availability is generally good, supporting working families.

Safety: The town’s welcoming atmosphere and community engagement contribute to a positive perception of safety. External patrols and local initiatives help provide reassurance to families.

Family activities: From the miniature railway to beach outings, watersports, and community festivals, Littlehampton offers year-round activities for all ages, fostering a family-oriented lifestyle.

Pet-friendly living in Littlehampton is supported by a wealth of outdoor spaces, including the town’s long sandy beaches, riverside walks, and proximity to the South Downs National Park. Popular with dog walkers, the promenade and surrounding countryside paths allow easy exploration with four-legged family members.

Local amenities include several veterinary clinics, grooming salons, and pet supply stores. Many cafés and even some pubs in the area welcome pets, particularly on outdoor terraces. Rental and housing options often cater to pet owners, reflecting the area’s accommodating attitude towards animals.

Whether living near the seafront or further inland, Littlehampton’s accessible green spaces and strong community sense make it a convenient location for those with pets.

Littlehampton benefits from a range of transport links that make both local journeys and longer commutes straightforward. The town’s railway station is centrally located, providing regular services to coastal and inland destinations. Trains from Littlehampton connect directly to London Victoria (just under 1 hour 50 minutes), Bognor Regis, Chichester, and Brighton via the West Coastway and Arun Valley lines.

Local bus services offer frequent connections to nearby towns, including Arundel, Worthing, and Bognor Regis. The A259 trunk road runs east-west through Littlehampton, giving road access to larger towns along the Sussex coast. The A27, nearby, provides faster links to the South Downs and Portsmouth.

• Brighton – about 50 minutes by train (or 21 miles by road via A259/A27)
• Chichester – approx. 25 minutes by train (or 14 miles by road via A27)
• London Victoria – direct trains take around 1 hour 45 minutes at peak times
• Gatwick Airport – 1 hour 10 minutes by train (via Three Bridges), or around 40 miles via A24/A264
• Portsmouth – 45 minutes by car (28 miles via A27)

For those commuting longer distances, rail links are reliable and suitable for daily journeys to larger cities. The area is well-connected, balancing coastal tranquillity with access to urban centres.

Education in Littlehampton is well supported by a range of schools and further education providers. The town offers good options for families with young children, and a selection of schools for older students within easy reach.

- River Beach Primary School: A popular primary with a strong reputation in the area; Ofsted rated 'Good' (2022)
- Lyminster Primary School: Known for its supportive community ethos and focus on pupil wellbeing; Ofsted rated 'Good' (2019)
- Georgian Gardens Primary School: A well-regarded option for families, with emphasis on inclusiveness; Ofsted rated 'Good' (2018)
- Littlehampton Primary School: Centrally located with a history of good educational outcomes; Ofsted rated 'Good' (2023)

- The Littlehampton Academy: The main secondary school in the area, with a large student body and strong facilities; Ofsted rated 'Requires Improvement' (2022), but ongoing improvement plans in place
- The Angmering School: Located just outside Littlehampton, popular among local families; Ofsted rated 'Good' (2018)
- St Philip Howard Catholic School (Barnham): Though in a nearby village, often attended by Littlehampton pupils; Ofsted 'Outstanding' (2022)
- Durrington High School (Worthing): Also accessible for some Littlehampton residents; Ofsted 'Good' (2019)

Littlehampton is not nationally known for its independent schools, but nearby options include Westbourne House School (Chichester) and Lancing College (Lancing). The Littlehampton Academy has its own sixth form, offering a broad post-16 curriculum.

For further education, Northbrook College (Worthing) and Chichester College are within easy reach, providing vocational and academic courses. The nearest universities are the University of Chichester and the University of Sussex in Brighton, accessible by direct train.