Hotspots for book lovers this World Book Day

This World Book Day is the perfect opportunity to explore the rich literary history of Sussex, visit the places that inspired the stories, or find your new favourite reading spot – and you can do it all by bus! Whether you prefer modern fiction or you’re a fan of the classics, there’s something for every bibliophile on our network. Read on for our pick of the best... 

Pooh Corner - Route 291

With its open heathland, ancient woodland, and quiet streams, Ashdown Forest was where A. A. Milne found the inspiration for the Hundred Acre Wood, home of Winnie the Pooh and friends. Fans of the classic children’s stories will love the heritage centre at Pooh Corner, with its tearoom, ‘Pooh-seum’ and gift shop. In the forest itself you can enjoy a game of Poohsticks on the famous Poohsticks Bridge, and explore some iconic locations from the stories, including Pooh’s House and Eeyore’s ‘Sad and Gloomy Place’. Plus, pick up a free visitor guide and exclusive postcard when you travel to Pooh Corner by bus! Get there on the 291 and alight at Hartfield High Street. 

Worthing - Route 23, 23X

In the early 19th century Worthing was transitioning from a modest fishing village to a fashionable resort when Jane Austen came to visit on a long vacation following the death of her father. It was here that Austen was inspired to write Sanditon, her last ever novel, which was left unfinished by the time of her death in 1817.  It is thought that the character of Mr Thomas Parker was based on Edward Ogle, a real entrepreneur and key figure in the development of the town. Worthing also has literary significance as the place where Oscar Wilde wrote his most famous play ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’. A visit to Worthing nowadays isn’t complete without sampling its historic pier, bustling art scene, and thriving, diverse food and drink culture. Get there on route 23. 

Crawley Library – Multiple Routes 

Crawley Library is the only library in West Sussex built over three floors and has a stunning light-filled atrium. It's the perfect place to discover your next page turner or settle in for some quiet reading time. It even has a cafe and regular events, including a creative writing group. Multiple routes serve the area around the Library. Get off at Town Centre stops, served by Routes 1, 2 and Fastway 10, 20.

West Sussex Literary Trail (Begins in Horsham) - Multiple Routes

This 87km long-distance walking trail runs all the way from Horsham to Chichester and is rich in literary associations. The trail is well signed along the route and appears marked on Ordnance Survey maps and apps. The route used to begin at the Percy Bysshe Shelley or ‘Rising Universe’ fountain in Horsham town centre, however the fountain was decommissioned and removed in 2016. The official start of the route is still in the same place, very close to Horsham Bus Station.

Keep an eye out for our drivers today, some of whom might be in disguise as their favourite book characters!