Sussex: historic county in South East England

Administration and settlements

For modern local government the traditional county is divided into two administrative counties, West Sussex and East Sussex, together with the unitary authority of the City of Brighton and Hove. Brighton and Hove became a unitary authority in 1997 and was granted city status in 2000. Before these changes the cathedral city of Chichester was long regarded as the county’s principal city. Other notable towns include Hastings, Eastbourne, Worthing, Lewes and Arundel.

Geography and environment

Sussex includes the South Downs, a chalk ridge running close to the coast, and the low-lying coastal plain. Inland the Weald is a mosaic of woods, heath and clay vales. The coastline presents chalk cliffs, pebble beaches and estuaries; rivers such as the Arun, Adur, Ouse and Rother flow southwards to the English Channel. Large areas are protected as national parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and nature reserves, supporting diverse wildlife and important habitats.

History and culture

The county’s name derives from the early Anglo-Saxon polity established in the area. Sussex has a layered history from prehistoric earthworks and Roman influence to medieval ports and agricultural estates. The events of 1066, fought near the county’s eastern edge, connected Sussex to national transformation in the Middle Ages. Over centuries local dialects, traditions and industries—fishing, agriculture and coastal trade—helped form a distinct regional identity. The unofficial anthem is "Sussex by the Sea" and the county motto has been rendered in local dialect as "We wun't be druv."

Economy, transport and institutions

Today Sussex combines agriculture, tourism, creative industries and a growing digital and service sector, with Brighton prominent as a cultural and tech hub. The county attracts visitors to seaside resorts, heritage houses and music and arts festivals. Transport links include rail lines to London, coastal roads and regional connections; ferry services and ports serve cross-Channel links. Higher education institutions, museums and research centres contribute to the local economy and civic life.

Places of interest and identity

• Landscape highlights: the South Downs, the Weald, chalk cliffs and varied coastline.
• Cultural highlights: theatres, festivals, historic houses, and maritime heritage.
• Historical associations: ties to the early Kingdom of Sussex and the events of 1066.
• Modern life: a mix of seaside towns, rural communities and urban cultural centres.