Liz Rowlinson

A house hunter’s guide to Sussex

  • From Spectator Life
Image: Rowland Gorringe

Bracing sea air, walks along windswept dunes and early-morning dips in the surf …living by the seaside can be just the tonic for mind, body and soul. What’s more, with greater opportunities for remote working, it’s in vogue.

According to the agent Knight Frank, the sale of coastal homes increased 19 per cent over the five-year average, in 2021 with the biggest increase in south-east England: 217 per cent. With Sussex spanning the lion’s share of the south coast, it’s often the go-to spot for movers and second-home owners from London, with train journeys between 60 and 90 minutes.

But whether you seek sailing, peaceful beaches or the buzz of a bucket-and-spade resort, where to choose? According to the property portal Rightmove, the highest number of buyer enquiries for coastal locations in Sussex during 2021 were for Brighton, Eastbourne, Worthing and Hastings, showing the enduring appeal of the classic seaside town.

Comments

Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months

Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.

Already a subscriber? Log in