LoveSussex
Seafaring Heritage
Sussex has a rich history of seafaring, from smugglers to coastal fortifications and an array of shipwrecks along the coast.
Sussex Smugglers
For smuggling history a visit to Smugglers Adventure in Hastings is a must. Explore the caverns set in West Hill to discover smuggling legends, and hear about the fascinating and bloody existence of these bootleggers and warring gangs.
Sussex Cinque Ports
The Confederation of Cinque Ports included several Sussex towns including Hastings, Rye and Winchelsea. Designated by Henry II these ports were granted rights in exchange for supplying ships and crews and are steeped in seafaring history with enchanting cobbled streets and medieval houses.
Coastal Fortresses
Many fortresses stand guard on the Sussex coast and some feature fascinating exhibitions and events including the Napoleonic Redoubt Fortress in Eastbourne and Newhaven Fort which acted as a vital defence during WWII.
Fishing Heritage
Discover more about seafaring history in Hastings at the Shipwreck Museum and the free Fishermans Museum, located by the aquarium in the bustling fishing quarter. Find fishing artefacts and explore the wreck of Warship Anne.
Smugglers Inns
Once a smugglers inn, The Tiger Inn in East Dean often runs smugglers walks and ghost tours to nearby Beachy Head.
