Sussex is a county brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. As we approach Sussex Day on June 16th, we wanted to explore some of the fascinating facts and stories that make this region so special.
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The name "Sussex" originates from the Old English term "Sud Seaxe," which translates to "South Saxons." This name dates back to around the year 722 and refers to the Saxon people who settled in the southern part of England.
- The radical nature of the county is nothing new. The famous Battle of Hastings in 1066, which changed the course of English history, took place near the town of Battle in East Sussex. Then there was the Battle of Lewes in 1264 – which made the 6th Earl of Leicester the ‘uncrowned King of England’.
- There’s a strong link to American history. Thomas Paine lived at Bull House on Lewes High Street and later travelled to Philadelphia to drum up support for the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
- Boxgrove, near Chichester, reveals that Sussex was home to some of our earliest human ancestors. Fossil remains of Homo heidelbergensis, along with lions, bears, rhinos and more, date back around 500,000 years. You can also see the remains of a Roman bath house and artefacts in the Novium Museum in Chichester, for free!
- Alfriston Clergy House in East Sussex was the first building saved forever for the nation by the National Trust. This early 15th-century Wealden hall-house was bought as a restoration project in 1896 by the newly formed National Trust for Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty. Sussex is home to many National Trust houses, parks and areas.
- Close to Alfriston you can find The Long Man of Wilmington: This mysterious hill figure, carved into the chalk of the South Downs, is one of the largest representations of a human figure in Europe. Its origins and purpose remain a mystery - but you'll spot wild ponies grazing in the area.
- Sussex boasts rich remains from the Bronze and Iron Ages. Notable sites include the Devil’s Jumps near Treyford (Bronze Age barrows) and Cissbury Ring just north of Worthing, one of Britain’s largest hillforts - which has well earned views , both out to sea and over to near by Chanctonbury ring once you've walked to the top - look out for the wild ponies here too!
- Sussex has one of the oldest cricket clubs in the form of the Sussex County Cricket Club, established in 1893. It is the oldest of eighteen first-class county clubs within the domestic cricket structure of England and Wales.
- Sussex has a sparkling wine industry that surprises many people, boasting 888 hectares of vineyards, which is over 25% of the UK total. In fact, Sussex wine has been granted Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, joining other regions like Champagne and Prosecco in legal protection. This recognition ensures that Sussex wine is made under specific rules, guaranteeing quality and authenticity. The PDO designation applies to both still and sparkling wines from Sussex. Why not spend a day at a Sussex vineyard and try some for yourself?
- Sussex has a proud cultural heritage. In the first half of the 20th century, it was a major centre for modernism, attracting radical artists and writers to its seaside towns and countryside. Find out more about the literary connections in Sussex.
- The Mermaid of Rye: Rye is said to be haunted by a mermaid who appears in the town's Mermaid Inn. The inn itself dates back to the 12th century and is full of history (Shakespeare himself performed here in 1597) and ghost stories - why not book a stay and see if anything spooky occurs? You'll find the inn on Mermaid Street (pictured below) which played a central role in smuggling activities in Rye, including the Hawkhurst Gang in the 1700s.
- The magnificent Roman Palace at Fishbourne was the largest Roman residence north of the Alps. It's renowned for its stunning mosaics, which offer a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of its ancient inhabitants.
- St. Dunstan and the Devil: Legend has it that St. Dunstan, who lived in Mayfield, Sussex, once grabbed the devil by the nose with a pair of red-hot tongs. The devil fled, leaving behind a hoof print that can still be seen in the church.
- Glyndebourne is one of the most famous opera houses in the world, welcoming over 150,000 guests in the summer and autumn months. It is famous for hosting the annual Glyndebourne Festival, which has been a highlight of the opera calendar since 1934. The festival features world-class performances and offers a unique experience with its beautiful gardens to explore and excitement dining options.
- The patron saint of Sussex is St. Richard of Chichester. He was the Bishop of Chichester from 1244 to 1253 and was canonized in 1262. Sussex Day, celebrated on June 16th, marks his feast day and is a time to celebrate the county's heritage.
- Sussex boasts a stunning coastline that stretches for approximately 140 miles (225 kilometres), from Camber in the east to Chichester Harbour and West Wittering in the west. This beautiful stretch of shoreline includes a variety of landscapes, from sandy beaches to dramatic cliffs, making it a perfect destination for seaside adventures.
- The Devil's Dyke: According to legend, this deep valley was created by the devil himself in an attempt to flood the surrounding churches. You'll find this iconic area, with panoramic views just north of Brighton. It's now a popular spot for paragliding and hiking plus has a great pub for relaxing in! Devil's Dyke is the longest, deepest, and widest dry valley in the UK, offering spectacular views of the Sussex Downs.
- Sussex is known for its strong tradition of bonfire celebrations, involving parades, activities, fireworks, and effigies, celebrating historical and cultural themes, celebrating from September to November in towns and villages around the county.
- Ashdown Forest: The inspiration for A.A. Milne's "Winnie-the-Pooh" stories, this ancient forest offers enchanting walks and picturesque scenery. After playing pooh-sticks enjoy a cuppa and a slice of cake at the Pooh Corner Cafe
- Sussex has been home to many notable figures, including stars of screen and stage: Dame Vera Lynn, Sir Paul McCartney, and Tom Baker, Kate Winslet and Dame Julie Walters. Sussex has also been home to many famous artists and writers including Raymond Briggs, Lee Miller, A.A Milne and Kate Mosse. Sussex also boast two Astronauts, Time Peake and Piers Sellers are both Sussex-born.
Sussex Day is celebrated annually on June 16th to honour the rich heritage and culture of the historic county of Sussex. This day coincides with St Richard's Day. The celebrations include various events showcasing local traditions, food, and music - including lighting the beacons at various points in the county. For more information about Sussex and the festivities, you can visit the West Sussex County Council website and the East Sussex County Council website.
