What the Sussexes are and why the term matters
The Sussexes refer to the historic county of Sussex in southern England and to people and things connected with that area. This evergreen explainer defines who the Sussexes are in geographic, historic, and cultural terms, outlines notable places and features, and clarifies how the name is used today. You will find verified detail, context, and practical comparisons to related terms.
Key facts at a glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Historic county | Sussex, subdivided into East and West Sussex | Historic UK governance |
| County town | Lewes (East Sussex), Chichester (West Sussex) | Traditional county administration |
| Current ceremonial counties | East Sussex, West Sussex | UK government ceremonial counties |
| Postcode areas | BN (Brighton), RH, GU21, GU22, and parts of RH10–RH14 | Royal Mail postcode ranges |
| Notable coastal towns | Brighton, Eastbourne, Hastings, Worthing | ONS local authority data |
| Area | Approximately 3,668 km² (1,416 sq mi) combined | ONS geographic size |
Origins and historic usage of the term “Sussexes”
The Sussexes originate in the historic county formed in the early 12th century from the ancient Kingdom of Sussex. The name derives from the South Saxons, an Anglo-Saxon group who settled the region. Traditionally comprising East and West Sussex, the county existed in local government until 1974, when reforms created the ceremonial counties that remain today. The Sussexes therefore denote both a geographic area and a collective identity tied to this part of southern England.
Historic Kingdom to modern counties
From a historic kingdom, Sussex evolved into a single administrative county, later divided for clearer governance. The split into East and West Sussex reflected population and administrative needs while preserving shared heritage. The continued use of “Sussex” in ceremonial, postal, and cultural contexts reflects this layered history and helps residents and visitors recognize a shared regional identity.
Cultural identity and landmarks
Cultural identity in the Sussexes is expressed through local traditions, dialects, and symbols such as the Sussex flag. Key landmarks include the South Downs, parts of the Weald, and iconic coastal settlements. These features anchor a sense of place that persists even as local governance and boundaries evolve over time.
Geographic scope and key places
The Sussexes cover the southern coastal region between Kent to the east and Hampshire to the west, extending inland toward Surrey and Kent across the Weald. The area combines chalk downland, river valleys, and a prominent coastline. Important settlements include Brighton, Hove, Eastbourne, Hastings, and Worthing, alongside historic market towns and rural villages.
Notable towns and their roles
- Brighton and Hove — Major urban centre, cultural and commercial hub
- Eastbourne — Coastal resort with Victorian heritage
- Hastings — Historic maritime town linked to the Norman conquest
- Worthing — Growing coastal city with arts and leisure facilities
- Lewes and Chichester — County towns preserving civic and historic functions
How the term is used today
Today the Sussexes commonly refer to the ceremonial counties of East and West Sussex. The term appears in cultural institutions, sports teams, and community organizations that draw on historic Sussex identity. While local government follows current ceremonial boundaries, the broader notion of the Sussexes highlights shared geography, history, and regional character.
Everyday contexts where “Sussexes” applies
- Regional media and publications that serve East and West Sussex
- Sports clubs and leagues representing Sussex broadly
- Cultural festivals and events organised around Sussex heritage
- Tourism marketing that references the South Downs and Sussex coast
Sussexes versus similar regional names
Unlike some historic counties that have changed names or boundaries, the Sussexes remain clearly tied to East and West Sussex. They differ from neighbouring areas such as Surrey or Kent by their distinct heritage and shared use of “Sussex” in modern cultural contexts. Understanding these differences helps clarify references to the Sussexes and related regional identifiers.
Practical comparison
| Region | Key distinction | Relation to Sussexes |
|---|---|---|
| Sussexes | Historic county split into East and West Sussex | Core region covered by this explainer |
| Kent | Separate historic county to the east | Neighbouring area with different heritage |
| Surrey | Inland county to the north | Neighbouring area with different heritage |
| Hampshire | To the west, across the South Downs | Neighbouring area with distinct identity |
FAQ
Reader questions
What areas are included in the Sussexes?
The Sussexes encompass the ceremonial counties of East Sussex and West Sussex. This includes Brighton and Hove, Eastbourne, Hastings, Worthing, Lewes, Chichester, and surrounding towns and rural areas.
Is the term “Sussexes” still used today?
Yes. The term remains in cultural, institutional, and geographic usage. While local government uses East and West Sussex, the historic identity of the Sussexes persists in everyday regional life.
How do the Sussexes relate to South East England?
The Sussexes form part of the South East England region. They contribute to the broader regional identity while maintaining their own distinct historic and cultural character.
Are the Sussexes the same as Brighton and Sussex?
Brighton and Sussex refers specifically to the city of Brighton and its connection to historic Sussex. The Sussexes cover the wider historic county beyond Brighton and Hove alone.