A buyer’s guide to private estates in Sussex
If you are considering buying a house in Sussex that provides exclusivity and privacy, the private estates in Sussex offer charm, prestige, seclusion, and a lifestyle that many find deeply rewarding.
If you’re after coastal living, this brief guide will introduce you to some of the county’s most sought-after private communities.
Many of the private estates in Sussex that we mention were established from the early 1900s to provide high-end living for the well-heeled.
Willowhayne Estate, East Preston
An established and prestigious private marine estate with gated access, peaceful roads, and proximity to East Preston Beach.
All the properties on the Willowhayne Estate embody luxury and space, ranging from 1930s builds to modern homes.
The most coveted are those backing directly on the sea, with jaw-dropping views across the English Channel.
East Preston village has all the shops and amenities you need for day-to-day living, and you can make the most of the outdoors with plenty of parks, nature walks, glorious beaches, and unlimited water sports.
Summerley Private Estate, Felpham
Home to around 350 families, the Summerley Private Estate is known for its exclusivity and privacy.
Characterful, individually designed homes on expansive plots typically date back to the 1920s and 1930s and are set within peaceful, tree-lined avenues.
Properties include large, detached family houses, apartments, and some smaller homes.
There are beautifully maintained green spaces to enjoy on Summerley Private Estate.
Additionally, King George V playing fields back onto the estate for sports and dog walks.
Security is carefully managed with a single entry point and seasonal gate staff, while a packed social calendar and friendly neighbours make Summerley feel like home.
Just a short walk away, you’ll find a variety of local shops, cosy cafés, and traditional pubs in Felpham village, perfect for picking up daily essentials or enjoying a relaxed lunch.
The estate itself is known for its sunny climate, and with direct beach access, it’s ideal for anyone who loves the sea.
Kingston Gorse, Goring by Sea
This exclusive private estate has direct access to an unspoilt stretch of beach and a peaceful, gated environment where privacy is key, so it’s easy to see why Kingston Gorse is such a coveted address.
The estate is home to a mix of elegant, often architect-designed three, four, and five-bedroom properties, many of which enjoy sea views or generous gardens.
Kingston Gorse is a true coastal retreat, offering residents privacy, security, and a strong sense of community.
Despite its secluded feel, Kingston Gorse is just a short drive from the amenities of East Preston and Rustington, including local shops, cafés, and restaurants.
Kingston Gorse offers the rare chance to enjoy relaxed seaside living in a unique and prestigious setting.
The Sea Estate, Rustington
With tree-lined avenues and the stunning beach on your doorstep, this is one of Rustington’s most sought-after locations.
The Sea Estate feels like a secret, and its private roads and well-kept surroundings make this a popular choice for those seeking quiet, stylish living.
With property types ranging from modern luxury apartments and three-bed chalet-style bungalows to sprawling, detached residences, generally with very substantial plots, there is something for every buyer.
Perfectly located just a short stroll from Rustington’s lively high street, residents have easy access to a mix of independent shops, cosy cafés, welcoming pubs, and stylish bars.
Aldwick Bay Estate, Aldwick
If you’re after grandeur, privacy, and refined living by the coast, the Aldwick Bay Estate near Bognor Regis offers a combination of privacy, grandeur, and coastal living. Gated, peaceful, and with its own private beachfront, it’s a gem for those seeking space and seclusion.
As you enter the Aldwick Bay Estate, two things instantly stand out: the quiet, empty roads, shingle footpaths, and the beautifully green, leafy surroundings.
The Estate, established in 1929, features a diverse mix of property types, ranging from flats to mansions, including those with Georgian, Tudor, Dutch, Spanish, and French-influenced designs.
Most properties on the Aldwick Bay Estate have generously sized plots.
Nearby, Bognor Regis offers a diverse array of shopping and entertainment options.
Angmering on Sea Estate, East Preston
The Angmering on Sea Estate is a well-established private coastal community made up of 335 homes, developed gradually since the early 1900s.
The variety of property types on the Estate caters to a wide range of preferences, from those seeking traditional homes with historical character to modern residences with coastal views.
The diversity of the Angmering on Sea Estate contributes to its enduring appeal among homebuyers.
This idyllic location offers direct access to the beach and is within easy reach of local shops, cosy pubs, and cafés. It’s also home to the Angmering on Sea Lawn Tennis Club, a long-standing feature of the estate since the 1960s.
The combination of character, privacy, and nearby amenities attracts people looking for a unique, refined coastal lifestyle.
Easy access: Why Sussex is great for commuting and travel
Living on a private estate in Sussex means enjoying privacy and peaceful surroundings, without sacrificing connectivity.
The county offers excellent transport links for commuters and travellers alike. Fast Southern and Thameslink trains run to London, with approximate journey times such as:
- Chichester – under 2 hours;
- Hassocks – 1 hour; and
- Eastbourne – around 1.5 hours.
By car, the A27, A23, and M23 connect you to Brighton, London, Gatwick, and Portsmouth.
Gatwick Airport is just 30–50 minutes away by road, with Heathrow reachable in under two hours – ideal for commuters and international travellers alike.
Top schools in Sussex
Private estates in Sussex give families access to top schools alongside a balanced lifestyle.
Leading establishments include Brighton College, Lancing College, and Roedean, which are known for their academic excellence, rich heritage, and exceptional facilities.
Hurstpierpoint College and Bedales School provide a strong, all-round education, while Great Ballard School, near Chichester, is ideal for younger pupils.
Private estates in Sussex
With so many different private estates in Sussex to choose from, and with still more to explore, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s where we come in.
At Garrington Property Finders, we have extensive knowledge of the Sussex market. Whether you’re seeking coastal calm or country grandeur, our team will help you find a home that suits your lifestyle, preferences, and budget.
Through our broad network of trusted contacts, Garrington has access to many properties that are not publicly advertised, including discreet, off-market opportunities across Sussex’s most desirable addresses.
For help in finding your perfect home on one of the private estates in Sussex or elsewhere in the region, please get in touch to discuss how we can help.
