The cliff faces between Brighton and Newhaven are a Site of Special Scientific Interest

Women and children first

In the 19th century, Newhaven was pioneering in matters of safety at sea, funding the building of one of the first lifeboats in Britain. In January 1800 the HMS Brazen was wrecked just off the coast of Newhaven – only one man out of around 105 crew survived. In response to this, the town rallied together to raise funds to purchase a lifeboat.

On the face of it

The cliff faces between Brighton and Newhaven are a Site of Special Scientific Interest. These cliffs provide the best and most extensive exposure of an important chronological fossil site in England. The mammal remains, landforms and stratigraphy found at Black Rock tell of environmental conditions and sea levels during the last few glaciations.

Best foot forward

The end of the Vanguard Way is just outside Newhaven. This is a 66 mile-long footpath that starts in East Croydon, winding southwards all the way down to the coast. On its way from the London suburbs, it passes over the North Downs, through the Ashdown Forest, and then through the South Downs National Park and the Cuckmere Valley.

Testing…testing…

The Newhaven Marconi Radio Station was established in 1904, and started running in 1905. The station was owned and operated by the Marconi Radio Company and achieved some of the first regular ship to shore radio communications, in around 1912.

Go

Newhaven Fort

A Victorian coastal fortress, with exhibitions, displays and an air-raid simulation

01273 517622; www.newhavenfort.org.uk)

Eat

Moonrakers

Seasonal ingredients cooked fantastically well to produce simple, delicious dishes

01323 871199; www.moonrakersrestaurant.co.uk)

Drink

The George Inn, Alfriston

Real ales served under original oak beams and beside roaring log fires

01323 870319; www.thegeorge-alfriston.com)

Sleep

Newhaven Lodge Guest House

Crisp, white linen in spotless rooms that overlook the downs or the sea

01273 513736; www.newhavenlodge.co.uk)

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Notable neighbours: Charles Webb, author of The Graduate, lived in the town, as did “Wreckless Eric”, the 1970s rock and roll singer / songwriter

Getting there: Newhaven has its own train station, and is on the A26 and A259