Sussex’s countryside is rich with heritage and cultural landmarks – and nowhere more so than in some of its historic villages. Across the county and into the South Downs, it’s possible to find the remains of historic settlements dating back as far as the medieval period. While many of these villages have now been largely forgotten and lost, if you delve into their history, you will find a treasure trove of Sussex heritage.
Balsdean Many of these lost villages, like Balsdean, date back as far as the Roman era – but many have a wealth of history far more recent than that. The settlement, sitting just east of Ovingdean, is thought to have previously consisted of two farms – one of which may have been used as a lunatic asylum in the 19th century. Most recently, Balsdean was taken over for military use in the Second World War and many of the buildings were destroyed when they were used for target practice.
Now, the hamlet is deserted, save from a few partially destroyed barns. Fishbourne Set just off the A27 near Chichester, Fishbourne is most famous as the largest roman home in the UK. The surrounding village also has a storied history and was mentioned in the Doomsday Book in the 11th century.
Fishbourne used to be a port for Chichester, but now the village sits at one of the main junctions on the A27. Perching Another village nestled in the South Downs, the site where Perching once stood can be seen near Fulking and Devil’s Dyke. The village only ever held a handful.
