Shoreham-by-Sea: Sussex towns and villages

Shoreham-by-Sea

Archant

Aged well

The St Mary de Haura Church was built in 1103, less than twenty years after the Domesday Book was compiled. It is now only half the size that it was originally, as it suffered at the hands of the civil war. In the churchyard, you can still see remnants of what used to be the west façade.

Cleared out

During World War II, a great swathe of Shoreham’s housing was demolished for defence reasons, but the Church of The Good Shepherd, built in 1913, survived. As well as the modern houses that were built in place of the pre-war streets, Shoreham also boasts a large collection of houseboats, many of which are made from converted mine sweepers, tugs and barges.

Creatures great and small

The mudflats just outside the town are home to a fantastic array of flora and fauna. The south and west-facing downs downs that surround them are also home to at least 33 species of butterfly, including a nationally important population of the Chalkhill Blue Butterfly.

Off to market

Shoreham has the largest farmers’ market in Sussex, held in East Street on the second Saturday of each month. It is one of the largest in the south of England, and usually has in excess of 60 stall holders supplying local vegetables, meat, cakes and preserves.

Go

The Marlipins Museum

The oldest non-religious building in Sussex, and probably Britain. A museum was established here in 1928

(01273 462994; marlipins.adur.org.uk)

Eat

Into the Blue

Fantastic fresh fish served by extremely friendly staff

(01273 464768; www.intothebluerestaurant.co.uk)

Drink

The Bridge Inn

Sit outside and watch the river go by, whilst sipping on local ale

(01273 452477; www.thebridgeinnshoreham.co.uk)

Sleep

The Crabtree Inn and Guesthouse

Spacious rooms and faultless service, a short walk from the water’s edge

01273 463508; www.thecrabtreeinn.co.uk

***

Notable neighbours: Broadcaster Chris Evans lives near Shoreham beach, and singer Leo Sayer was born here

Getting there: Shoreham has its own railway station and airport, and is just off the A27