Best Destinations for Book Lovers in Worthing, West Sussex, United Kingdom
1. Worthing Library
A modern library with a vast collection of books and comfortable reading spaces.
- Rare Book Collection: Houses a selection of rare and out-of-print books.
- Reading Spaces: Offers quiet, comfortable areas for deep reading.
- Community Events: Hosts author talks, book clubs, and literary festivals.
2. Worthing Museum & Art Gallery
A museum with a collection focusing on Worthing's history and local artists, including a small section dedicated to notable writers who lived in the area.
- Local Literary Heroes: Showcases works by authors like Virginia Woolf and E.F. Benson.
- Historical Exhibits: Provides insight into Worthing's rich literary heritage.
- Art Gallery: Offers a changing program of contemporary and historic art exhibitions.
3. The Keep
A world-class archive housing manuscripts, rare books, maps, and other historical materials, including a significant collection related to literature.
- Research Facility: Provides access to research tools for scholars and enthusiasts alike.
- Special Collections: Offers a chance to view unique, often inaccessible books and documents.
- Exhibitions: Hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing highlights from the collection.
4. Worthing Pier
A historic pier with a café and bookshop selling local literature.
- Bookshop: Sells books by local authors, as well as classic novels set in the area.
- Historic Attraction: Provides a glimpse into Worthing's past through its architecture and exhibits.
- Relaxation Spot: Offers a peaceful setting for reading, with stunning sea views.
5. Steyne Public House
A traditional pub that once hosted Virginia Woolf and her Bloomsbury Group friends for literary discussions.
- Literary History: Preserves the legacy of Virginia Woolf's literary gatherings.
- Local Ales and Ciders: Serves a wide variety of locally brewed beverages.
- Comfortable Atmosphere: Provides a cozy, relaxed environment for conversation and reading.
6. Worthing Theatres
A collection of theaters hosting plays, musicals, and performances based on classic literature.
- Classic Literature Adaptations: Brings literary classics to life through engaging stage productions.
- Workshops and Masterclasses: Offers opportunities for actors, writers, and theater enthusiasts to learn from professionals.
- Variety of Performances: Provides a range of performances to suit all tastes.
7. Graffham Ponds
A beautiful countryside location with walking trails and picnic spots, known for inspiring local authors.
- Natural Inspiration: Offers a tranquil setting for finding literary inspiration.
- Walking Trails: Provides scenic routes for exploring the Sussex countryside.
- Picnic Spots: Allows visitors to enjoy a peaceful lunch while enjoying the scenery.
8. Highdown Gardens
A hilltop garden with stunning views and an on-site tea room, where E.F. Benson wrote parts of his Mapp & Lucia novels.
- Literary Landmark: Preserves the site where a prominent author worked.
- Beautiful Scenery: Offers picturesque views of Worthing and its surroundings.
- Tea Room: Provides a chance to relax and reflect on the inspiring surroundings.
9. Booth Museum of Natural History
A museum dedicated to natural history with links to Victorian authors like E.F. Benson.
- Victorian Literary Connections: Highlights the connection between nature and literature in the Victorian era.
- Permanent Exhibits: Showcases a diverse collection of taxidermy specimens and artifacts.
- Temporary Exhibitions: Offers opportunities to explore new themes and topics in natural history.
10. The Chatsworth Hotel
A hotel where Virginia Woolf stayed while working on her novel To the Lighthouse.
- Literary History: Preserves the legacy of Virginia Woolf's literary endeavors.
- Comfortable Accommodation: Offers modern, comfortable rooms for visitors.
- Sussex Coast Location: Provides easy access to Worthing's beautiful beaches and attractions.
11. South Downs National Park
A national park offering walking trails, picturesque villages, and inspiring landscapes that have been a source of literary inspiration.
- Natural Inspiration: Provides opportunities for finding literary inspiration in stunning natural settings.
- Walking Trails: Offers scenic routes through the beautiful Sussex countryside.
- Historic Villages: Allows visitors to explore charming villages steeped in history and tradition.
12. Graffham Common
A large common area with walking trails and scenic views, known for inspiring local authors.
- Natural Inspiration: Offers a tranquil setting for finding literary inspiration.
- Walking Trails: Provides scenic routes for exploring the Sussex countryside.
- Scenic Views: Allows visitors to enjoy breathtaking vistas of the surrounding area.
13. Wiston House and Garden
A historic house and garden that served as a setting for parts of E.F. Benson's Mapp & Lucia series.
- Literary Landmark: Preserves the site where a prominent author worked.
- Historic House Tour: Offers an insight into the history and architecture of the property.
- Beautiful Gardens: Provides a serene setting for enjoying the outdoors.
14. Worthing College Library
A college library with an extensive collection of books and resources on literature.
- Resource Center: Offers access to a wide range of books, journals, and databases for literary research.
- Study Spaces: Provides quiet areas for focused reading and study.
- Workshops and Seminars: Hosts events related to literary analysis, creative writing, and more.
15. Worthing Writers' Circle
A local group for writers and readers who meet regularly to share their work, discuss literature, and offer support.
- Creative Community: Provides a supportive environment for aspiring writers.
- Workshops and Critiques: Offers opportunities to receive feedback on writing projects.
- Guest Speakers: Brings in published authors, editors, and literary agents for talks and Q&A sessions.