West Sussex

West Sussex on the south coast of England, is easily accessible from London by road and rail and offers a mixture of Wealden forest, chalk grassland, crystal clear river valleys, and coastline. The South Downs National Park covers a significant part of the county, with over half the county formed of protected countryside offering a multitude of activities including walking and biking.

West Sussex is bordered by Surrey, Hampshire, East Sussex with views out to the English Channel.

Find out more

West Sussex Overview

Welcome to West Sussex

The cathedral city of Chichester, West Sussex’s only city, sits on the banks of the River Lavant and dates from Roman times. Today Chichester has several harbours and a cosmopolitan atmosphere with museums, galleries and a range of shops and restaurants.

The county lays claim to “the sunniest county” in the United Kingdom and hosts a number of seaside resorts with the likes of Worthing and Bognor Regis being particularly popular.

West Sussex is home to an impressive collection of stately homes including Goodwood House, Uppark and Petworth House. West Sussex’s coastal position means it has seen its fair share of invasions and raids; Bramber Castle ruins overlook the River Adur, whilst the spectacular Arundel Castle is well worth a visit. The restored castle has featured in many TV productions including Dr Who and The Young Victoria.

West Sussex’s local food specialities reflect its geographical position and include Chichester Lobster, Pulborough Eels and Arundel Mullet, whilst the county shares many vineyards with its East Sussex neighbour.

The county of West Sussex nestles on the south coast bordering East Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire and overlooking the English Channel.

West Sussex has a population of around 900,000 people, the county town being Chichester, with significant other towns at Horsham, Crawley, Worthing and Bognor Regis.

The county benefits from the Channel coast line, with the Weald sandwiched between the North and South Downs meaning over half of the county is formed by protected countryside.

History

Occupation of Sussex can be traced back to the Old Stone Age or Paleolithic period when nomadic hunters from Europe arrived. Although the formation of The Kingdom of Sussex in AD 477 is sometimes referred to as a myth, archaeologists at least agree Saxons were settled in the area during the 5th century. Occupation continued through the Bronze and Iron Ages with ruins such as Cissbury Ring in evidence today.

West Sussex was formed by the split of Sussex into east and west divisions under the Reformation Act in 1832. In 1889 the two divisions became two administrative counties.

Getting There

Despite being on the coast, West Sussex is reasonably accessible. The mainline railway from London runs through to the county, whilst road access is mainly via the A23, M23 from the M25, whilst the A27 and A272 run across the county. West Sussex can also be accessed via Gatwick Airport.