Here at Mountside, we feel privileged to be located in such a beautiful part of the UK. 

Sussex is a popular seaside destination, thriving with tourists, fishing communities, events and attractions. Perhaps the biggest pull of all though, is its extensive and interesting history.

Read on to find out more about the history of Sussex:

 

The History of Sussex: The First Settlement 

Sussex has been an integral part of UK history for many years. There is evidence to suggest that it has been inhabited for at least 500,000 years, thanks to the discovery of the oldest human fossil ever to be found in Britain. 

Tools have also been found around Sussex, dating back 35,000 years, suggesting that the county was once populated by Neanderthals. 

The South Downs are home to Neolithic flint mines that date to 4000 BC, whilst other parts of Sussex have links to the Iron and Bronze ages. 

The Romans conquered Sussex in AD 43, and remained there until the 5th century, when migrants from (what is now known as) Germany moved in, and created the kingdom of the South Saxons. 

They expanded to include Hæstingas (now known as Hastings) which is, of course, our Mountside hometown.

 

The History of Sussex: 1066

Perhaps the most well-known aspect of Hastings’ history is the Battle of Hastings in 1066. It was during this battle that French-Norman William the Conqueror defeated King Harold Godwinson, as they fought over the land.

The first Norman King of England, William the Conqueror, ruled until his death in 1087. His legacy lived on through his changes to the church, aristocracy, culture and language of the country. 

 

The Recent History of Sussex

In more recent history, Sussex was a pivotal location in the movement of ‘sea bathing”, which became fashionable among the wealthy (for health purposes) in the late 18th century. Dr Richard Russell of Lewes is said to have started popularising the act of ‘going to the beach’, and before long, they built resorts in Hastings, Brighton, Bognor and Worthing. 

Soon after, in the 19th century, agricultural conditions worsened, and Sussex experienced high levels of unemployment. This became the trigger for riots in Kent and Sussex, lasting for several weeks.

To learn more about the history of Sussex, why not visit the Hastings Museum and Art Gallery?

 

Frontline for the World Wars

With its ideal positioning by the sea, Sussex was integral in the World Wars, but became one of the most frequently bombed sites. 

There are many areas you can visit today that signify the war, such as the memorial at RAF Friston, a bunker in Cuckmere Valley and the Seaford trenches. 

 

Exploring Hastings With Your Loved One

If your loved one is living here at Mountside, why not make the most of the location and take them on a day out, exploring all that Hastings has to offer? It’ll provide the perfect opportunity to spend quality time together, whilst discovering the rich history of Sussex. 

If you’d like to know more about our care services, please contact a member of our team.

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