Southwick, West Sussex
A historic coastal town with Roman origins, rich maritime heritage, and vibrant community life
Historical Overview
Roman Period
Archaeological evidence reveals a substantial Roman villa under Manor Hall Road – a 1st-century AD complex comparable to Fishbourne Roman Palace. This suggests Southwick was an important Roman site.
Medieval Period
By the Domesday Book (1086), recorded as "Esmerewick", it was a small hamlet with land for four ploughs. A parish church was established by the 11th–12th centuries, and the name "Southwick" first appeared in records by 1309.
16th-18th Century
The coastal area (Fishersgate) gained notoriety for maritime activity, including an inn and blockade station by 1753 to curb smuggling. Local lore suggests King Charles II stayed in a cottage by Southwick Green in 1651 while fleeing to France.
19th Century
The opening of Shoreham Harbour's east arm brought commerce to the coast. The railway arrived in 1840, and Southwick was designated an Urban District in 1899, with its own Town Hall built in 1906.
20th Century
New residential streets filled gaps between the old village core and coastal hamlets. After World War II, suburban housing estates were built northward onto the Downs. The commercial center shifted to Southwick Square shopping precinct.
Current Demographics
Population Overview
- Population (2021): ~9,463 (Southwick Green + Eastbrook wards)
- Population (2011): ~9,043 (approximate same area)
- Age Distribution: ~20% aged 0–17; ~56% aged 18–64; ~24% aged 65+
- Ethnicity: Predominantly White British; over 90% UK-born
The population age profile skews older than the national average, with about one in four residents aged 65 or above. This reflects Adur District's popularity among retirees. However, families remain a key part of the community, with roughly one-fifth of residents being children or teenagers.
Local Economy and Employment
Industrial Sector
Southwick's coastal frontage includes part of Shoreham Harbour, with wharves and engineering yards. The Shoreham Power Station (420 MW gas-fired) is a major employer and local source of electricity.
Retail & Services
Centered on Southwick Square, offering supermarkets, independent shops, cafés, pubs, and essential services. The weekly market and small traders contribute to a village-like economy.
Commuter Base
Many residents work in nearby Brighton & Hove (4-5 miles east) and Worthing (8 miles west), with good transport links supporting this commuter trend.
Amenities and Infrastructure
Education
- Glebe Primary School
- Eastbrook Primary Academy
- Herons Dale School (SEN)
- Shoreham Academy (secondary)
Healthcare
- Southwick Health Centre
- Village Surgery
- Southlands Hospital (2 miles)
- Local pharmacies and dental practices
Leisure & Recreation
- Southwick Community Centre
- Barn Theatre
- Southwick Green
- Southwick Leisure Centre
Transportation Links
Key Connections
- Road: A27 and A259 provide east-west connections
- Rail: Southwick station on West Coastway Line
- Bus: Coastliner 700 and local routes
- Cycling: Part of National Cycle Network Route 2
Road Access
Located just south of A27, with junctions at Southwick/Holmbush and Shoreham. A259 runs through town, connecting to Brighton and Worthing.
Rail Services
Regular services to Brighton (9 mins) and Worthing (15 mins). Connections to London via Brighton, with two trains per hour in each direction.
Bus Routes
Coastliner 700 provides frequent service along the coast. Additional routes connect to inland villages and Brighton's western suburbs.
Notable Buildings and Landmarks
St Michael and All Angels Church
Grade II listed medieval church with a distinctive three-stage tower and broach spire. Features flint and stone construction with a beautiful churchyard.
Barn Theatre
18th-century timber-framed barn converted into a community theatre in 1951. Home to the Southwick Players and various cultural events.
Southwick Green
Large public open space with war memorial, cricket ground, and playground. Hosts community events and seasonal fairs.
Shoreham Harbour
Industrial landmark with lock gates and quays. Features the Shoreham Power Station and Kingston Buci Lighthouse.
Recent and Ongoing Developments
Kinsted Housing Development
Transforming the former Eastbrook Primary School site into new residential areas, with archaeological preservation of Roman villa remains.
Southwick Reef Project
Environmental initiative to enhance marine biodiversity along Southwick's harbour wall, creating artificial rock pools and living seawall structures.
Community Enhancements
Recent improvements to Southwick Square, playground facilities, and the Recreation Ground pavilion. Ongoing cultural events and heritage celebrations.