Welcome to Southwick

About Southwick

Southwick Green - the heart of the community

Nestled between Brighton & Hove and Shoreham-by-Sea on England's picturesque south coast, Southwick is a town with a distinctive character and close-knit community. With approximately 9,500 residents, it balances small-town charm with convenient access to larger urban centers.

Southwick retains its village atmosphere centered around the historic Southwick Green, while the busy Shoreham Harbour forms its southern boundary. The town offers a blend of residential areas, local shops, historic buildings, and recreation spaces that contribute to its appeal as a place to live, work, and visit.

Rich Historical Heritage

Southwick's history stretches back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence revealing a substantial Roman presence. The town has evolved from a small Saxon hamlet to the vibrant community it is today, with each era leaving its mark on the landscape.

Local Attractions & Landmarks

St Michael and All Angels Church

A medieval Grade II listed church featuring elements from different eras, including Saxon-Norman foundations, a distinctive tower with broach spire, and Victorian renovations.

Southwick Barn Theatre

An 18th-century flint barn converted into a community theatre in 1951. Home to the award-winning Southwick Players and various cultural events.

Southwick Green

The heart of the community, featuring historic cottages, the war memorial, cricket grounds, and a children's playground. Host to seasonal fairs and community events.

Shoreham Harbour & Kingston Beach

The historic harbour with lock gates, Kingston Buci Lighthouse, and shingle beach offers industrial heritage, fishing spots, and marine activities.

Manor Cottage Heritage Centre

A 16th-century Grade II listed flint cottage housing the Southwick & Shoreham District Heritage Trust's museum with exhibitions on local history.

Southwick Recreation Ground

Sports facilities including playing pitches, Southwick Leisure Centre, and the home ground of Southwick F.C. (founded 1882).

Community & Amenities

Southwick offers a range of amenities and facilities that support its thriving community life. From education and healthcare to leisure and recreation, residents enjoy convenient access to services while maintaining a small-town atmosphere.

Education

Southwick is served by several educational institutions:

• Glebe Primary School - Located near the Green
• Eastbrook Primary Academy - On Manor Hall Road
• Herons Dale School - Special educational needs school
• Secondary education available at nearby Shoreham Academy and schools in Brighton & Hove

Healthcare

Basic healthcare facilities include:

• Southwick Health Centre - GP services near Southwick Square
• The Village Surgery - Local GP clinic
• Nearest hospitals are Southlands Hospital (2 miles), Worthing Hospital (10 miles), and Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton (5 miles)
• Several pharmacies, dental practices, and care homes within the town

Shopping & Dining

Southwick Square forms the commercial heart of the town, with:

• Supermarkets and convenience stores
• Independent shops and services
• Cafés, restaurants, and takeaways offering diverse cuisine
• Historic pubs including The Cricketers, The Romans, and The Ship
• Weekly market with local traders

Leisure & Recreation

The town offers various recreational opportunities:

• Southwick Community Centre - Hub for clubs, classes, and events
• Barn Theatre - Home to the Southwick Players and cultural performances
• Southwick Green - Open space, cricket matches, and children's playground
• Southwick Recreation Ground - Sports facilities and leisure centre
• Southwick Beach - Harbor front with angling opportunities
• Active community clubs for sports, arts, and special interests

Transportation Links

Southwick enjoys excellent transport connections that make it easy to reach nearby towns and cities while maintaining its quiet residential character.

Rail Services

Southwick railway station, located on the West Coastway Line, offers:

• Regular services operated by Southern
• Eastbound trains to Brighton (9 minutes) with connections to London
• Westbound trains to Worthing, Chichester, Southampton, and Portsmouth
• Typically two trains per hour in each direction (more at peak times)

Bus Routes

Comprehensive bus services connect Southwick with surrounding areas:

• Coastliner 700 - Frequent service along the A259 through Southwick, connecting Brighton to Worthing and beyond
• Route 46 - Connects Southwick to Brighton & Hove's northern suburbs
• Additional local routes to inland villages and nearby towns

Road Access

Southwick has excellent road connections:

• Located just south of the A27, the primary east-west route along the South Coast
• The A259 (Brighton Road) runs directly through the town
• Well-maintained local road network with ample parking
• Easy access to the A23/M23 corridor to London

Cycling & Walking

Southwick is integrated into regional active transport networks:

• Part of the National Cycle Network Route 2 along the south coast
• Dedicated cycle path along the seafront/harbour
• Pedestrian-friendly town with footpaths and quiet residential streets
• Historic route across the harbour locks connecting to Shoreham Beach

Recent & Ongoing Developments

While Southwick is a well-established community, it continues to evolve with new developments that enhance its appeal and preserve its heritage.

Artist's impression of the Kinsted housing development on the former Eastbrook Primary School site

Kinsted Housing Development

Construction began in 2024 on this residential project transforming the former Eastbrook Primary School site on Manor Hall Road. The development features:

• Multiple phases of housing development with the initial 22 homes under construction
• Preservation of archaeological significance - the site sits atop part of an extensive Roman villa complex
• Community engagement through displays about the Roman history discovered during excavations
• Addition of much-needed housing, including affordable units

Southwick Reef Project

An innovative environmental initiative announced in 2024 and scheduled to launch in summer 2025:

• Enhancement of marine biodiversity along Southwick's harbour wall
• Installation of artificial rock pools and "living seawall" structures
• Creation of intertidal habitats for seaweed, invertebrates, and fish
• Educational component with public access at low tide and information boards
• Partnership between Shoreham Port Authority, local councils, and conservation groups

Community Enhancements

Recent years have seen various improvements to community facilities:

• Refurbishment of Southwick Square shopping area
• Upgraded children's play area at the recreation ground
• Outdoor gym equipment installed on Southwick Green
• Renovation of the Southwick Recreation Ground pavilion
• Return of the Southwick Beer & Cider Festival in 2025

Heritage and Cultural Events

2025 marks the 90th anniversary of the Southwick Society, with special exhibitions about the town's history planned. The Southwick Players continue to win regional awards in amateur theatre, highlighting the cultural vibrancy of this small town.