Sussex

Sussex is a historic county in South East England, traditionally comprising East Sussex and West Sussex. It is bordered by Kent to the east, Surrey to the north, Hampshire to the west, and the English Channel to the south. The name derives from the South Saxons, a Saxon people who settled the area in the early medieval period.

Geographically, Sussex combines a long coastline along the English Channel with the inland chalk ridge known as the South Downs. The Downs run across the eastern and western parts of the county, while the interior includes the Weald, a wooded area between the downs and the coast. Seaside towns such as Brighton, Hove, Eastbourne, and Hastings anchor the coast, while towns like Lewes and Chichester reflect the inland landscape.

Historically, Sussex existed as a kingdom of the South Saxons in the early medieval period. In administrative terms, East Sussex and West Sussex were established as separate counties in the late 19th century, and the region underwent further reorganization in 1974 under the Local Government Act. Today, East Sussex and West Sussex are separate non-metropolitan counties within South East England, while the historic county remains a geographic and cultural reference.

Economy and culture in Sussex are driven by tourism, agriculture, and higher education. The coastline and countryside attract visitors to coastal towns, the South Downs National Park, and historic sites. The region is home to universities such as the University of Sussex in Falmer and the University of Brighton, contributing to research and regional culture. Notable sites include Battle Abbey, Arundel Castle, Lewes Castle, Chichester Cathedral, and the distinctive Seven Sisters cliffs along the coast.