Cultural Breaks in South East England

Budding arts enthusiasts are sure to be inspired by the many cultural gems that the South East region is proud to call its own.

With an impressive background of literary, theatrical, musical and artistic connections, from famous luminaries such as novelist Jane Austen, actor Laurence Olivier, musical maestro Sir Malcolm Sargent and artist Stanley Spencer, the South East abounds in cultural venues to suit all tastes. Be it browsing a sculpture gallery, indulging in Old Master art, listening to opera out of doors or taking in a new play, the choice is yours.

South East England is also home to some of the best-established theatres outside London, as well as new venues hosting the latest cultural experiences. Catch the latest pre-West End production without paying top London prices and take time to look at the architecture of some of these buildings, from beautiful Georgian elegance to cutting edge modern design. Why not time your trip to coincide with one of the many arts festivals held every year featuring music, dance, theatre and art. And it’s not all serious and highbrow – there are comedy festivals and cabarets, too.

Here is a selection of ideas for cultural breaks in South East England.

Brighton Museum & Gallery

A short walk from the Royal Pavilion in Brighton, this dynamic gallery has recently undergone a major refurbishment and houses a number of nationally and locally important collections.

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Pallant House Gallery

Housed in a Queen Anne era townhouse in Chichester, Pallant House Gallery is home to one of the world’s best collections of 20th century British art - guided tours are available as well as talks and workshops for adults.

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Marle Place Gardens

A short drive from Royal Tunbridge Wells - an enchanted ten acre garden filled with scented and unusual plants blended together with woodland walks, a Victorian orchid house, an Edwardian rockery and an art gallery.

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Theatre Royal Windsor

This lovely theatre is nestled in the shadow of Windsor Castle in Windsor and has over the years treated audiences to a variety of top productions, before being shown internationally or in London's West End.

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Glyndebourne

Set in the heart of the East Sussex countryside, Glyndebourne is one of the world’s leading opera houses and has a long tradition of nurturing artists as well as attracting world class singers, directors and conductors.

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