Bognor Regis is a seaside town located in West Sussex, England. It is a popular destination for tourists looking to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. Bognor Regis offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages, making it an ideal location for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.
This Bognor Regis Travelers Guide provides a comprehensive overview of the town and its surroundings, including the best places to eat, drink, and stay.
It also highlights the top tourist attractions and activities, such as the Museum of local history and the beautiful parks in the area. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or an action-packed adventure, this guide has everything you need to plan your perfect trip to Bognor Regis.
History of Bognor Regis
Bognor Regis, located in West Sussex, England, began as a Saxon village and remained just a hamlet for centuries. The inhabitants made a living from fishing and smuggling and also grew wheat and barley and raised cows, sheep, and pigs. In a document of 680 AD, it is referred to as Bucgan ora, meaning Bucge’s (a female Saxon name) shore or landing place.
In the 18th century, Sir Richard Hotham had a vision of turning the small fishing hamlet of Bognor into a seaside resort that would attract nobility away from the increasingly busy Brighton and Margate.
He bought land and started building, but it was not until the arrival of King George III in 1788 that the town began to gain popularity. The king’s physicians suggested that he bathe in the sea to help his health, and he stayed in Bognor for several summers.
The town continued to grow, and in 1929, King George V approved the suffix “Regis,” and as a result, Bognor became known as “Bognor Regis.” During World War II, the town was heavily bombed, and many buildings were destroyed. However, after the war, the town was rebuilt, and tourism continued to be a major industry.
Today, Bognor Regis is a popular seaside resort town that attracts visitors from all over the world. The town is proud of its heritage and royal designation and looks to the future with optimism. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches, amusement parks, and various events and festivals throughout the year.
Getting to Bognor Regis
Bognor Regis is a popular seaside resort town located in West Sussex, England. It is easily accessible by air, train, and road. In this section, we will explore the different ways to get to Bognor Regis.
By Air
The nearest airport to Bognor Regis is Gatwick Airport, which is approximately 45 miles away. From the airport, travelers can take a train or hire a car to get to Bognor Regis. Alternatively, Heathrow Airport is approximately 70 miles away, and travelers can take a train or hire a car to get to Bognor Regis from there.
By Train
Trains to Bognor Regis are run by Southern Rail, which operates between London and the South of England. Travelers can get to and from destinations all over Sussex and Hampshire with this handy network of railways, which are spread across the counties. When travelers arrive at Bognor Regis station, it is just a 10-minute walk to the hotels, restaurants, and attractions in the town centre.
By Road
Travelers can also get to Bognor Regis by road. The town is conveniently located just off the A27, which connects to the M27 and M23 motorways. From London, travelers can take the M25 and then the M23 towards Gatwick Airport, before joining the A27 towards Bognor Regis. There are also several bus services that operate to and from Bognor Regis, including National Express and Stagecoach.
In summary, Bognor Regis is easily accessible by air, train, and road. Travelers can choose the mode of transportation that best suits their needs and budget. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, getting to Bognor Regis is straightforward and hassle-free.
Accommodation in Bognor Regis
Travellers to Bognor Regis can find a range of accommodation options to suit their preferences and budget. From hotels to self-catering apartments, there is something for everyone. In this section, we’ll explore the different types of accommodation available in Bognor Regis.
Hotels
Bognor Regis has a selection of hotels to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options. The Royal Norfolk Hotel is a popular choice for its beachfront location and far-reaching views over the English Channel.
The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. Another option is the Premier Inn, which is located on the A29 and offers easy access to Bognor Regis town centre. The hotel features comfortable beds, free parking, and an onsite restaurant.
Bed and Breakfasts
Travellers looking for a more personal touch can opt for a bed and breakfast in Bognor Regis. There are several options to choose from, such as The Swan Guest House, which is located in a quiet residential area and offers comfortable rooms and a hearty breakfast. Another option is The Inglenook Hotel, which is a family-run bed and breakfast that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Self-Catering Apartments
For those who prefer more independence and privacy, self-catering apartments are a great option. Bognor Regis has several apartments available for rent, such as the Beachcroft Beach Hut Suites, which offer sea views and direct access to the beach. The apartments feature a kitchenette, a living area, and a private bathroom.
Another option is the Ocean View Apartment, which is located in a quiet residential area and features a fully equipped kitchen, a living area, and a balcony with sea views.
Overall, Bognor Regis offers a range of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets. Travellers can choose from hotels, bed and breakfasts, and self-catering apartments, depending on their needs.
Attractions in Bognor Regis
Bognor Regis is a popular seaside resort town in West Sussex, England. It is located on the south coast of England and is known for its beautiful beaches, parks, and gardens. There are many attractions in Bognor Regis that visitors can enjoy during their stay. In this section, we will explore some of the top attractions in Bognor Regis.
Museums
Bognor Regis is home to several museums that showcase the town’s rich history and culture. The Bognor Regis Museum is a great place to start your exploration of the town. It covers notable characters in the town’s history and helps visitors learn about Bognor’s origins. The museum has a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Bognor Regis.
Another museum worth visiting is the Tangmere Military Aviation Museum, which is located just a short drive from Bognor Regis. The museum has a collection of aircraft, vehicles, and other artifacts that tell the story of military aviation from World War I to the present day.
Parks and Gardens
Bognor Regis has several parks and gardens that are perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic. Hotham Park is one of the most popular parks in Bognor Regis.
It has a boating lake, miniature railway, and a cafe. The park is also home to several events throughout the year, including music festivals and outdoor theatre performances. Another park worth visiting is Marine Park Gardens, which is located near the seafront. It has a children’s play area, a bandstand, and a cafe.
Beaches
Bognor Regis is known for its beautiful beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The most popular beach in Bognor Regis is East Beach, which is located near the town centre. It has a promenade, cafes, and a children’s play area.
Another popular beach is Felpham Beach, which is located just to the east of Bognor Regis. It has a long stretch of sand and is perfect for a relaxing day at the beach.
In summary, Bognor Regis has many attractions that visitors can enjoy during their stay. From museums and parks to beaches, there is something for everyone in this seaside resort town.
Dining in Bognor Regis
Bognor Regis offers a variety of dining options for travelers, from restaurants serving authentic Indian cuisine to cozy cafes offering fresh pastries and coffee. Visitors can also find traditional British pubs serving classic pub fare and local beers.
Restaurants
There are several highly-rated restaurants in Bognor Regis, including Papa John’s Butlins and Cafe Punjab. Papa John’s Butlins offers a menu of Italian and pizza dishes, while Cafe Punjab serves authentic Indian cuisine. Chez Moi is another popular restaurant in the area, serving French cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Cafes
Travelers looking for a quick bite or a place to relax can find several cafes in Bognor Regis. The Beachcomber Cafe is a popular spot for breakfast, offering a variety of pastries and coffee. The Boulevard Cafe is another cozy option, offering a selection of light bites and sandwiches.
Pubs
For those looking for a traditional British pub experience, Bognor Regis has several options to choose from. The Waverley is a popular spot for classic pub fare, including fish and chips and burgers. The Lamb Inn is another cozy option, offering a selection of local beers and ales.
Overall, Bognor Regis has a variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Travelers can enjoy authentic Indian cuisine, cozy cafes, and traditional British pubs during their stay in the area.
Shopping in Bognor Regis
Bognor Regis offers a variety of shopping experiences, from popular chain stores to independent shops. The town centre has a pedestrian-only precinct in London Road and the High Street, where visitors can find many shops. The Edwardian Shopping Arcade also takes visitors through to the seafront and the beach.
Specialty markets are held in the town centre during the year on Tuesdays and Saturdays, subject to weather and other conditions. Visitors can find antique stores, factory outlets, gift and specialty shops, and more.
Some of the popular shops in Bognor Regis include:
- Boutique Roma: A trendy boutique that sells women’s clothing, accessories, and shoes.
- Bognor Bike Hub: A bike shop that offers bike rentals, repairs, and sales.
- Unique Knit & Sew: A haberdashery shop that sells fabrics, yarns, and sewing accessories.
- Snooks Gift Boutique: A gift shop that offers unique and handmade gifts.
- Sajaroo Gifts: A gift shop that sells home decor, stationery, and accessories.
- Reeves & Sons Jewellery: A jewellery shop that sells a wide range of jewellery, including engagement rings, wedding bands, and watches.
- Little Piggies Soft Play Café: A café that offers soft play for children and serves hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals.
Visitors can also find supermarkets, pharmacies, and other essential stores in Bognor Regis. The town has several car parks, including pay-and-display and free parking areas, making it easy for visitors to park their vehicles and explore the town.
Outdoor Activities in Bognor Regis
Bognor Regis is the perfect destination for those who love outdoor activities. With its stunning coastline, rolling hills, and beautiful countryside, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water sports. Here are some of the best outdoor activities in Bognor Regis.
Hiking
Bognor Regis is a great place for hiking enthusiasts. The South Downs National Park, which is located just a short drive from Bognor Regis, offers some of the best hiking trails in the country. The park covers an area of 1,600 square kilometers and includes rolling hills, stunning cliffs, and beautiful countryside.
The park has a network of well-marked trails that cater to all levels of hikers. Some of the most popular trails include the South Downs Way, the Monarch’s Way, and the Serpent Trail.
Cycling
Cycling is another popular outdoor activity in Bognor Regis. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, which makes it a great place for cycling enthusiasts. There are many cycling routes in the area, including the South Downs Way, which is a 160-kilometer trail that runs from Winchester to Eastbourne.
The trail offers stunning views of the countryside and is suitable for all levels of cyclists. There are also many other cycling routes in the area, including the Chichester Harbour Trail and the Centurion Way.
Water Sports
Bognor Regis is also a great place for water sports enthusiasts. The town has a long coastline and is home to many water sports centers. Some of the most popular water sports in the area include surfing, windsurfing, kite surfing, and paddleboarding. The town also has a number of beaches that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Some of the most popular beaches in the area include West Wittering Beach, Littlehampton Beach, and Bognor Regis Beach.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely hike, an exhilarating cycle ride, or an adrenaline-fueled water sport, Bognor Regis has something for everyone. With its stunning scenery and wide range of outdoor activities, it’s no wonder that Bognor Regis is such a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nightlife in Bognor Regis
Bognor Regis has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of options for visitors to enjoy. From traditional pubs to trendy bars and nightclubs, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to experience the nightlife in Bognor Regis:
Pubs
For those who enjoy a good pint, Bognor Regis has a number of traditional pubs to choose from. The Waverley, located near the seafront, is a popular choice for its cosy atmosphere and selection of real ales. The Hatters Inn, part of the Wetherspoons chain, is another great option for affordable drinks and pub grub.
Bars
If you’re looking for a more modern vibe, Bognor Regis has a few trendy bars to choose from. Bonito Lounge, located in the town centre, is a stylish bar with a relaxed atmosphere and a great selection of cocktails. Mustards Bar & Restaurant is another popular choice for its contemporary decor and live music events.
Nightclubs
For those who want to dance the night away, Bognor Regis has a few nightclubs to choose from. Sheiks Nightclub, located in the town centre, is a popular choice for its lively atmosphere and great music. The Waterloo Inn is another popular nightclub, known for its themed events and friendly staff.
Other options
In addition to pubs, bars, and nightclubs, Bognor Regis also has a few other options for nightlife. The Alexandra Theatre is a great choice for those who enjoy live performances, while the Ritz Cinema is a popular spot for movie lovers. The town also has a few casinos for those who want to try their luck at the tables.
Overall, Bognor Regis has a great nightlife scene with plenty of options for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a quiet pint or a night of dancing, there is something for everyone in this seaside town.
Events and Festivals in Bognor Regis
Bognor Regis is a vibrant seaside town that offers a variety of events and festivals throughout the year. From music festivals to food fairs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular events and festivals in Bognor Regis.
Bognor Regis Kite Festival
The Bognor Regis Kite Festival is a popular event that takes place every year in August. Visitors can enjoy a spectacular display of kites of all shapes and sizes, including stunt kites, power kites, and single-line kites. The festival also features live music, food stalls, and a variety of other activities for all ages.
Bognor Rox Music and Arts Festival
The Bognor Rox Music and Arts Festival is a free event that takes place every year in August. The festival features a variety of live music performances, art exhibitions, and workshops. Visitors can enjoy a range of musical genres, including rock, pop, jazz, and blues. The festival also features a variety of food and drink stalls, as well as children’s activities.
Bognor Regis Illuminations
The Bognor Regis Illuminations is a popular event that takes place every year in September. Visitors can enjoy a spectacular display of lights, including illuminated floats, cars, and bicycles. The event also features live music, food stalls, and a variety of other activities for all ages.
Other Events and Festivals
In addition to these major events, Bognor Regis also offers a variety of other events and festivals throughout the year. These include the Summer Fair on the Green, the Funshine Days in Hotham Park, and the Magic and Musicals Drama Workshop. Visitors can check the Bognor Regis Visitor Information Guide for the latest information on upcoming events and festivals.
Overall, Bognor Regis is a great destination for those looking to enjoy a variety of events and festivals throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in music, food, or culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant seaside town.
Safety Tips for Travelers
Bognor Regis is a relatively safe destination for travelers. However, like any other place, visitors should take some precautions to ensure their safety during their stay. Here are some safety tips for travelers:
General Safety Tips
- Always be aware of your surroundings and stay alert, especially in crowded areas.
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in dimly lit areas.
- Keep your valuables, such as passports, money, and credit cards, in a safe place, preferably in a hotel safe.
- Do not leave your belongings unattended in public areas, such as beaches or parks.
- Be cautious of pickpockets and keep your bags and pockets closed and secure.
- Do not accept drinks or food from strangers, and be cautious of scams or fraudulent activities.
Beach Safety Tips
Bognor Regis is known for its beautiful beaches, but visitors should take some precautions to ensure their safety while enjoying the sun and sea. Here are some beach safety tips:
- Always swim in designated areas and follow the instructions of lifeguards.
- Check the tide times before going into the water, and be aware of rip currents.
- Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially during hot weather.
- Do not leave your belongings unattended on the beach, and keep an eye on your children at all times.
- Do not swim alone, and avoid swimming after consuming alcohol.
Transportation Safety Tips
- Use licensed taxis or public transportation, and avoid unlicensed taxis or hitchhiking.
- Wear seat belts and follow traffic rules when driving or riding a bicycle or motorcycle.
- Be cautious of pickpockets and keep your bags and pockets closed and secure while using public transportation.
- Do not leave your belongings unattended in a car or on public transportation.
By following these safety tips, travelers can enjoy their visit to Bognor Regis with peace of mind.
Conclusion
Travelling to Bognor Regis can be a delightful experience for tourists of all ages. With its beautiful coastline, seaside attractions, and a range of activities to suit all interests, it is a destination that has something for everyone.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The town’s pier and promenade provide excellent opportunities for a leisurely stroll, while the nearby South Downs National Park offers scenic walks and hikes.
Bognor Regis is also home to a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes, providing visitors with ample opportunity to indulge in some retail therapy or sample some of the local cuisine. The town’s Butlin’s Holiday Resort is a popular attraction, offering a range of activities and entertainment for families.
When it comes to accommodation, visitors have a range of options to choose from, including hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering apartments. The town’s train station provides easy access to London and other nearby destinations, making it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area.
Overall, Bognor Regis is a charming seaside town that offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, Bognor Regis is a destination that is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.