Cooden Beach Sports & Social Club

The stretch of shingle at Cooden Beach near Pevensey has a proper sports club behind it - the kind of place where locals gather for tennis, bowls, and a decent cup of tea rather than somewhere tourists typically venture. It's a functioning members' club with courts and greens overlooking the coast, which means access depends on whether you're affiliated or just passing through. Worth ringing ahead on 01323 763313 to check if they allow visitors for a session or just to use the bar.

This works best if you're into racket sports or bowls yourself - otherwise you're looking at a cafe visit and a walk along the beach. The shingle here is genuine Sussex coast, not the manicured stuff further east. Families might find an hour here adequate unless someone's keen on a game, in which case book a court.

Stay at Normans Bay Camping and Caravanning Club Site just 2.5 miles away and you've got easy access to both the club and a proper stretch of coastline. It's a solid base for exploring this quieter part of the Sussex coast without the carnival atmosphere of Brighton or Hastings. Pevensey Bay Holiday Park is another option, though a bit further at 4.5 miles. The medieval castle at Pevensey itself is the real draw for the area - the club is really just a bonus if you're already staying nearby and fancy a game.