Bognor Regis is one of the South Coast's most iconic seaside resorts, but there's much more here than a stretch of beach and a promenade. Whether you're planning a traditional day by the sea, looking for things to do in Bognor Regis for adults, organising a family day out, or searching for the best places to eat in Bognor Regis, you'll find plenty to keep you busy.
How to get to Bognor Regis by train
Located on the West Sussex coast, Bognor Regis combines classic seaside attractions with theatres, museums, parks, cafés, restaurants and family entertainment. Thanks to direct rail connections from London Victoria and Brighton, it's also one of the easiest coastal destinations to visit without a car.
Are there any things to do in Bognor Regis for adults?
While many people associate the town with family holidays, there are plenty of things to do in Bognor Regis for adults, from catching a film at a historic cinema to exploring local heritage and enjoying live entertainment by the sea.
Picturedrome Cinema
One of the town's most distinctive entertainment venues, Picturedrome Cinema is an independent cinema showing the latest blockbuster releases alongside family films and special screenings. The venue has been part of Bognor Regis life for decades and offers a more traditional cinema-going experience than many modern multiplexes. Its central location makes it an easy addition to any day out in the town.
Address: 51 Canada Grove, Bognor Regis, PO21 1DW
Phone: 01243 981212
Website: bognor-regis.picturedromecinemas.co.uk
Bognor Regis Museum
If you're interested in the town's history, Bognor Regis Museum offers an excellent introduction to the area's development from a small fishing settlement into a popular seaside resort. Exhibits cover local archaeology, social history, tourism and notable residents, including Sir Richard Hotham, whose investment helped establish the town as a fashionable destination in the late 18th century. Admission is free, making it one of the best-value Bognor Regis attractions.
Address: 69 High Street, Bognor Regis, PO21 1RY
Phone: 01243 865636
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm; closed Sunday and Monday.
Website: www.bognormuseum.org
The Regis Centre & Alexandra Theatre
The Regis Centre and Alexandra Theatre sit close to the seafront and host a varied programme of comedy, drama, live music, community events and touring productions throughout the year. The theatre has capacity for more than 350 people and remains one of the most important cultural venues in Bognor Regis. If you're visiting for a weekend break, checking what's on at the theatre can be an easy way to round off the day.
Address: Belmont Street, Bognor Regis, PO21 1BL
Box office: 01243 861010
Website: alexandratheatre.co.uk
What are some things to do in Bognor Regis for kids?
If you're visiting with children, you'll quickly discover that many of the best things to do in Bognor Regis for families are designed around active play, outdoor adventures and classic seaside fun. From splash-filled water parks to miniature railways and adventure golf, there are plenty of ways to keep younger visitors entertained throughout the day.
Butlin's Splash Waterworld
No trip to Bognor Regis is complete without a visit to Butlins. One of the most popular family attractions in town, Splash Waterworld is located within Butlin's Bognor Regis resort and features a variety of pools, flumes and interactive water play areas. Highlights include the Space Bowl flume, family-friendly slides, a wave pool and dedicated areas for younger children. Day visitor passes are available on selected dates, making it a popular option even if you're not staying at the resort.
Address: Upper Bognor Road, Bognor Regis, PO21 1JJ
Phone: 0330 100 6649
Website: www.butlins.com
Top tip: For families visiting during school holidays, this is often one of the most popular things to do in Bognor Regis for kids, particularly when the weather isn't ideal for a beach day.
Hotham Park Miniature Railway
Located within Hotham Park, this volunteer-run miniature railway has become a firm favourite with generations of local families. The railway operates on selected weekends and during school holidays, taking passengers on a short journey through part of the park. Children tend to love the experience, while parents appreciate the nostalgic charm and affordable ticket prices.
Address: Hotham Park, Upper Bognor Road, Bognor Regis, PO21 1HW
Phone: Information available through the railway's volunteer association.
Website: www.visitsoutheastengland.com/things-to-do/hotham-park-miniature-railway-p212571
Top tip: As well as the railway itself, Hotham Park offers extensive green space, a boating lake, playgrounds and cafés, making it one of the best family-friendly Bognor Regis attractions.
Butlins Aerial Adventures
For children who enjoy a challenge, the aerial activities at Butlin's offer a chance to test balance, coordination and confidence in a supervised environment. Sessions are designed for a range of ages and abilities, with trained instructors on hand to provide guidance and safety equipment.
Address: Upper Bognor Road, Bognor Regis, PO21 1JJ
Phone: 0330 100 6649
Website: www.butlins.com
Top tip: While many visitors head straight for the beach, activities such as high ropes can provide a welcome change of pace, particularly during longer family stays.
What makes Hotham Park one of the best family attractions in Bognor Regis?
Few places combine as many family-friendly activities in one location as Hotham Park. Alongside the miniature railway, visitors will find a large adventure playground, open lawns for picnics, ornamental gardens, a boating lake and the popular adventure golf course. The park was originally created around Hotham House, built by Sir Richard Hotham in the late 18th century, and today remains one of the town's most visited green spaces.
Top tip: For families looking for things to do in Bognor Regis for kids without spending a fortune, it's often possible to fill an entire afternoon here.
What are the best places to eat and drink in Bognor Regis?
One of the pleasant surprises about visiting Bognor Regis is the variety of dining options available. Alongside traditional seaside cafés and fish and chip shops, you'll find family-friendly restaurants, independent eateries and waterfront dining spots serving everything from seafood to international cuisine. If you're searching for the best places to eat in Bognor Regis, these venues are among the most popular choices.
Bonito Lounge
Located in the heart of the town centre, Bonito Lounge is a relaxed all-day café bar serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and evening meals. The menu covers everything from burgers and tapas-style dishes to vegan and gluten-free options, making it a useful choice for mixed groups with different tastes. The colourful interiors and spacious seating also make it popular with families.
Address: 16-18 London Road, Bognor Regis, PO21 1PY
Phone: 01243 212411
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 9am-10pm; Friday & Saturday 9am-11pm
Website: www.thelounges.co.uk/bonito-lounge
Top tip: Whether you're looking for a quick coffee before exploring the seafront or a relaxed evening meal, Bonito Lounge is one of the most reliable Bognor Regis restaurants for all-day dining. Make sure you try the fresh squeezed orange juice.
Bangkok Lounge
For something a little different from traditional seaside food, Bangkok Lounge has built a strong reputation for authentic Thai cuisine. The restaurant serves a wide range of curries, stir-fries, noodle dishes and seafood specials, with many dishes prepared using traditional Thai ingredients and cooking techniques.
Address: 73 High St, Bognor Regis PO21 1RZ
Phone: 01243 860602
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, lunch and evening service; closed Mondays
Website: www.bangkokloungebognor.co.uk
Top tip: Bangkok Lounge has a welcoming atmosphere and extensive menu, making it one of the standout places to eat in Bognor Regis if you're craving something beyond the usual seaside classics.
The Lobster Pot
Few restaurants enjoy a location quite as enviable as The Lobster Pot, which overlooks the beach at nearby Felpham. A long-standing favourite with locals and visitors alike, the restaurant specialises in seafood, freshly cooked fish dishes and traditional British meals, all served with sea views.
Address: Canning Road, Bognor Regis PO22 7AF
Phone: 01243 862751
Hours: Daily, with breakfast, lunch and dinner service available
Website: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Lobster-Pot/100063597068849/#
Top tip: If you're spending the day on the coast, this is one of the best Bognor Regis restaurants for enjoying fresh seafood while watching the waves roll in.
London Road Coffee
A popular independent café-style spot, London Road Coffee offers specialty coffee, light bites and a relaxed daytime atmosphere. Locals often recommend it for relaxed daytime drinks and casual meet-ups.
Address: 6-8 London Rd, Bognor Regis PO21 1PY
Phone: 01243 820101
Hours:Open daily 8am-5pm; Sundays 8:30am-4:30pm
Website: www.bognorregisbeach.co.uk/food-and-drink/cafe/london-road-coffee-shop
Top tip: London Road Coffee is best suited for a quieter stop during a day exploring the town rather than evening drinks.
Why is Bognor Regis a good destination for food lovers?
While Bognor Regis is often associated with traditional seaside holidays, the dining scene has become increasingly diverse in recent years.
Visitors can choose between independent cafés, waterfront restaurants, international cuisine and classic British pubs. The town's coastal location also means seafood remains a popular feature on many menus, particularly around Felpham and the seafront.
What are the best pubs and bars in Bognor Regis?
Bognor Regis has a lively pub and bar scene, with everything from historic high street pubs to modern micropubs and late-night venues. If you're looking for the best pubs in Bognor Regis or places to drink in Bognor Regis, these are some of the most popular spots for both locals and visitors.
The Dog and Duck
A well-known micropub located near the seafront, The Dog and Duck is a compact, characterful venue focused on cask ales, craft beers and a rotating selection of independent brews. It has a relaxed, social atmosphere with no fruit machines or loud distractions, making it popular with those looking for a more traditional pub experience.
Address: 3 The Steyne, Bognor Regis, PO21 1TX
Phone: 01243 865751
Website: www.facebook.com/dogduckbognor
Top tip: The Dog and Duck is widely regarded as one of the standout Bognor Regis bars for craft beer lovers, with frequent tap takeovers and community events adding to its appeal.
The William Hardwicke
One of the busiest nightlife venues in the town centre, The William Hardwicke is a large high street pub known for its late-night Hours, DJ sets and weekend entertainment. It offers a mix of casual dining, drinks and live events, making it a central part of Bognor Regis nightlife.
Address: 12 High Street, Bognor Regis, PO21 1SR
Phone: 01243 931324
Website: www.thewilliamhardwicke.co.uk
Top tip: For visitors looking for lively places to drink in Bognor Regis, this is one of the most active late-opening venues in the town.
What are must-see Bognor Regis attractions?
Beyond the restaurants, pubs and family activities, Bognor Regis has a handful of classic seaside attractions that define a day by the coast. These are the spots that tend to anchor any visit, whether you're here for a few hours or a full weekend exploring West Sussex.
Bognor Regis Pier
Bognor Regis Pier is one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks. It’s Grade II listed, and originally opened in 1865 and was rebuilt after storm damage in the 20th century. While shorter than many traditional British piers, it remains a key focal point along the seafront, offering open views across the English Channel and a classic seaside promenade experience.
Address: The Esplanade, Bognor Regis, PO21 1SY
Hours: Open 24 hours
Website: www.arun.gov.uk/bognor-regis-pier
Top tip: The pier is a simple but essential stop, especially if you're planning things to do in Bognor Regis for adults that involve coastal walks, photography or sunset views.
Marine Park Gardens
Marine Park Gardens is a restored public garden space close to the seafront, offering landscaped lawns, floral displays and a peaceful walking route away from the main promenade. It’s a good contrast to the busier parts of town and works well as a short stop between attractions.
Address: 4 King's Parade, Bognor Regis PO21 2QA
Hours: Open 24 hours
Website: www.bognorregisbeach.co.uk/what-to-see-and-do/parks-gardens/marine-park-gardens
Top tip: For visitors looking for quieter things to do in Bognor Regis for families, this is a simple, free option that works well alongside the beach.
Wild Forest Falls Adventure Golf
Located within Hotham Park, this 18-hole adventure golf course is designed with families in mind and features themed obstacles, landscaped greens and a relaxed pace of play. It’s particularly popular during school holidays and summer weekends.
Address: Hotham Park, Upper Bognor Road, Bognor Regis, PO21 1HW
Phone: 07704 209080
Hours: Open daily 10am-6pm
Website: isslifestyle.co.uk/sites/hotham-park-bognor-regis/#facility-crazy-adventure-golf
Top tip: This pairs well with the miniature railway and playgrounds, making Hotham Park one of the strongest Bognor Regis attractions for families.
Is Bognor Regis worth visiting?
Whether you're planning a relaxed coastal escape, a family day out or a getaway from London, Bognor Regis delivers a mix of classic seaside charm and modern convenience. From beaches and parks to theatres, restaurants and pubs, the town offers a compact but varied selection of things to do in Bognor Regis for adults, things to do in Bognor Regis for kids and everything in between.
