East Beach Studios

The working studios at East Beach near Lancing give you a proper look at what local artists are actually making, rather than just staring at finished pieces behind glass. You'll find painters, sculptors, and makers with their doors open to the public - the kind of setup where you can watch someone at their bench and ask proper questions about their work. It's informal, unpolished, and all the better for it.

The space works best if you're genuinely curious about the creative process. If you're after a quick cultural fix, you might find yourself restless after half an hour. But spend time chatting with the artists, and you could easily lose two hours. Many studios are run on a drop-in basis, though it's worth checking ahead for opening times before you make the trip from Lancing.

For a caravan holiday in the area - Beach Park and Eastern Sands are both within easy reach - this fits nicely into a coastal break. Pair it with a walk along the beach itself, which stretches for miles in both directions. The studios feel less touristy than seaside attractions further east, which means you're seeing genuine creative work rather than something designed to shift postcards.

Admission tends to be free, though many artists appreciate a donation if you're keen on their work. Bring cash just in case.