Welcome to the Kingdom of Sussex

“By sun and sea, we rise”

Far to the south, where chalk cliffs guard the edge of the world and the sun dances over restless waves, lies the ancient Kingdom of Sussex. A land of the South Saxons, sea-hearted folk with salt in their veins and sunlight in their souls.

Founded by the daring warrior twins Aelle and Cymen, the House of Sussex was born from a great voyage. Guided by stars and the call of the gulls, the brothers landed on the shores with golden shields and blazing banners. It is said that as their boots touched the sand, the sun broke through storm clouds, a sign that the gods of sky and sea had blessed their claim.

Sussex was a kingdom of coastal strength and quiet cunning. While other lands built mighty walls, the South Saxons trusted in the tides and their deep knowledge of land and sea. They were shipbuilders, explorers, and stargazers. Their long halls filled with tales of sea dragons, hidden islands, and the whispering spirits of the Downs (the local hills).

The flag of Sussex bears six golden martlets. Tiny birds with no feet, said to always be in flight. Some say they represent the kingdom’s energy, always seeking, always soaring. Others believe the martlets are enchanted messengers, flying between this world and the world of myths.

Though Sussex was one of the smallest kingdoms, its spirit was mighty. Its people believed in honour, loyalty, and the power of quiet courage. They defended their lands from invaders and made peace with wild places. In every forest clearing and coastal breeze, the legacy of Sussex lives on.

Those who think with clarity, act with quiet strength, and always look for the light – they carry the spark of Sussex in their hearts.

10 fun facts about Sussex

Covers: Brighton, Chichester, Worthing, Hastings, and the South Downs

1. The name Sussex still exists today – it’s split into East and West Sussex.
2. You can still see six golden martlets (the birds on the Sussex flag) on official county symbols.
3. The South Downs National Park was once the hunting ground of Saxon nobles.
4. Hastings is where the Battle of 1066 happened, which marked the end of Saxon rule!
5. Brighton, a cool seaside city today, started as a small fishing village during Saxon times.
6. Sussex’s coastline is still dotted with ancient churches built by the South Saxons.
7. Lots of Sussex towns have names ending in “-ham” and “-hurst”, which are all carried over from Saxon times!
8. The Long Man of Wilmington, a giant figure carved into a hillside, is a mystery. Though some think it’s Saxon!
9. You can visit the Weald and Downland Living Museum to see real Saxon-style houses.
10. Chichester was a Roman city that Saxons turned into a thriving centre of trade. Now it has one of the oldest cathedrals in England.