Shoreham-by-Sea City Guide

About Shoreham-by-Sea – History and Culture

Shoreham-by-Sea, often simply called Shoreham, is a historic port town in West Sussex, South East England. Its origins date back to the Roman era when it served as a small settlement and port. The town grew significantly during the medieval period, granted a charter in 1250, and became a thriving centre for shipbuilding, trade, and later, smuggling. The River Adur provided a natural harbour, and the town’s maritime heritage is still visible today in the old town's winding streets and listed buildings.

The 18th and 19th centuries saw Shoreham become a major shipbuilder for the Royal Navy, with over 100 warships constructed locally. The arrival of the railway in 1845 boosted tourism and trade, transforming the town into a seaside resort for the nearby city of Brighton. Today, Shoreham balances its industrial past with a modern, creative community. The Ropetackle Arts Centre is a hub for theatre, music, and art, while the annual Shoreham WordFest celebrates literature and spoken word.

Shoreham’s culture is a blend of coastal relaxation and active heritage. The town is known for its independent shops, farmers’ markets, and a strong sense of community. Historic pubs like The Crown and The Red Lion offer traditional English hospitality. The juxtaposition of the ancient bridge, the modern airport, and the working port gives Shoreham a unique character that attracts artists, families, and professionals alike.

• Shoreham Fort, a Palmerston fort built in the 1850s to defend against French invasion.
• Maritime Museum on the Beach Green, featuring local shipbuilding and smuggling artefacts.
• St Mary de Haura Church, a Grade I listed medieval parish church.
• The Amsterdam Shipwreck: A 18th-century Dutch East Indiaman wrecked off Shoreham Beach.
• Old Shoreham Tollbridge, one of the few surviving wooden toll bridges in the UK.
• South Downs National Park extending into the northern part of the parish.
• Brighton City Airport (Shoreham Airport) with its iconic art deco terminal building.
• The Shoreham Adur Tidal Walls, a haven for walkers and cyclists.

Did You Know? – Facts about Shoreham-by-Sea

Shoreham-by-Sea is a town of fascinating records and quirky heritage. It holds an important place in aviation history as home to one of the world's first civilian airports. The local economy has always been tied to the sea, but the town also has a surprising musical legacy, having inspired bands like The Cure and Kate Nash, who lived nearby. Shoreham is also notable for its environmental efforts, with the Shoreham Beach Local Nature Reserve protecting rare shingle vegetation.

• Shoreham Airport was used as a filming location for the 1969 film 'Battle of Britain'.
• The town has a microclimate: often sunnier than inland areas due to its coastal position.
• Every year the town hosts the Shoreham Seafront Festival, a free family event with live music.
• Shoreham was once a major centre for smuggling gin, silk, and brandy.
• The Shoreham by Sea lifeboat station has been operating since 1867.
• The town’s Ouse Valley Viaduct (nearby) is a 37-arch brick viaduct of the London–Brighton railway.
• Shoreham is twinned with Saumur in France and Bad Homburg in Germany.
• Part of the 2015 Shoreham Airshow disaster led to major changes in UK air show regulations.
• The town's park, 'Buckingham Park', has a skate park and a listed bandstand.
• Shoreham’s weekly farmers' market is one of the largest in West Sussex.
• There is a 200-year-old mulberry tree at Buckingham Park, planted during Victorian times.
• Shoreham is the birthplace of England cricketer Ian Gould.
• The town lies on the Monarch's Way, a long-distance footpath from Worcester to Shoreham.
• Shoreham has a very low crime rate compared to the national average.
• Local legend says the ghost of a smuggler haunts the Old Tollbridge.

Geography and Climate of Shoreham-by-Sea

Shoreham-by-Sea is situated on the south coast of England, at the mouth of the River Adur, approximately 10 kilometres west of Brighton and 16 kilometres east of Worthing. The town sits within the coastal plain, backed by the South Downs National Park to the north. The Adur estuary divides the town into two main parts: Shoreham town centre on the east bank, and the historic hamlet of Old Shoreham on the west bank. The landscape includes shingle beaches, salt marshes, and chalk cliffs near the shore.

Shoreham enjoys a temperate oceanic climate (Köppen: Cfb), with mild summers and cool winters. Being on the coast, it is slightly warmer in winter than inland areas and cooler in summer, with less temperature variation. Rainfall is moderate, averaging around 750 mm per year, with the wettest months being October to January. Sunshine hours are relatively high for the UK, partly due to the rain shadow of the South Downs. The prevailing winds are from the southwest, often bringing fresh sea breezes.

• Average summer high: 20°C (68°F); average winter low: 3°C (37°F).
• Snowfall is rare; less than 5 days per year on average.
• Sea temperature ranges from 8°C in February to 17°C in August.
• Thunderstorms occur mostly in late summer.
• Air quality is good due to coastal breezes and lack of heavy industry.
• The town is within the South Downs National Park boundary for parts of the parish.
• Shoreham Beach is a designated Site of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI).
• The tidal range in the estuary is about 5-6 metres during spring tides.

Things to Do in Shoreham-by-Sea

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Shoreham-by-Sea offers a wealth of activities. The town’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, and the blend of seaside and heritage creates a charming backdrop for a day out or longer stay. From the Art Deco airport to the historic shipwreck at low tide, there’s always something new to discover.

Food & Dining

Shoreham’s food scene is a hidden gem, with a focus on locally sourced seafood, artisan bakeries, and independent restaurants. The High Street and the riverfront are dotted with cosy cafés and gastropubs. Fresh fish from day boats is a highlight, often served in no-frills seafood shacks or upscale dining rooms. For a real taste of the region, try the famous Sussex Charmer cheese or the locally brewed Shoreham IPA.

The town also hosts a monthly farmers' market (first Saturday) where you can buy organic vegetables, free-range meats, and handmade cheeses. Many eateries have outdoor seating to enjoy the coastal ambiance. For casual bites, the beachfront kiosks serve classic seaside fish and chips, while the Middle Street area offers international cuisine from Thai to Italian.

• Fish and chips at 'Shoreham Fish Bar' – award-winning and locally loved.
• 'The L'Atelier' restaurant for fine French-British fusion cuisine.
• 'The Crown' pub (medieval, with a menu of seasonal British dishes).
• 'Café Rust' – speciality coffee and homemade cakes.
• 'Adur Tandoori' for Bangladeshi curries.
• 'Pizzaface' for wood-fired pizzas near the beach.
• 'The Bridge Inn' – riverside pub with great seafood platters.
• 'The Coffee Pot' – traditional tearoom with scones and clotted cream.
• 'The Beach Green' seafood shack (summer only).
• 'Sussex Produce' deli for picnic supplies.
• 'The Hop Yard' for real ale and Thai street food.

Festivals & Events

Shoreham’s calendar is packed with events that celebrate its heritage, arts, and community spirit. The biggest is the Shoreham Seafront Festival in August, featuring a fun fair, live music stages, a dog show, and a sailing dinghy regatta. Another highlight is the Shoreham WordFest, a literature and spoken word festival held in October, with local and national authors. The annual Christmas lights switch-on and late-night shopping event draws crowds to the Old Town.

The Ropetackle Arts Centre also runs year-round programming including theatre, film screenings, and comedy nights. For food lovers, the Shoreham Food and Drink Festival in June showcases the best of Sussex gastronomy with tasting sessions and workshops. The town also participates in the nation-wide Heritage Open Days, offering free entry to historic sites such as the Marlipins Museum and the Norfolk Bridge.

• Shoreham Seafront Festival (August) – three days of family fun and entertainment.
• Shoreham WordFest (October) – literary talks, poetry slams, and children’s events.
• Shoreham Farmers' Market (first Saturday monthly) – local produce and crafts.
• Christmas in Shoreham – late November to December: lights, carols, and Santa's grotto.
• Shoreham Food and Drink Festival (June) – pop-up restaurants and chef demos.
• Ropetackle Arts Centre programme – year-round events, from stand-up to jazz.
• Summer solstice celebrations on Shoreham Beach – drum circles and bonfires.
• Shoreham Classic Car Show (June) – vintage vehicles on display.
• The Great British Beach Clean (September) – volunteer cleanup event.
• Heritage Open Days (September) – free entry to historical landmarks.

Cultural Attractions

Culture in Shoreham is both traditional and contemporary. The Marlipins Museum, one of the oldest buildings in the town, tells the story of Shoreham’s maritime and smuggling history through interactive exhibits. For arts and performance, the Ropetackle Arts Centre is a modern venue built into a converted school, hosting gallery exhibitions, theatre, concerts, and workshops. Street art can be spotted along the Adur waterfront, with murals celebrating the town’s industrial past.

Another unique attraction is the South Downs National Park authority’s visitor centre at the Old Town Hall, where you can learn about the local ecology and geology. The town also has a strong literary tradition: the poet John Masefield once lived nearby, and the childhood home of novelist Evelyn Waugh is a short drive away. For a dose of history, take a guided walk along the Heritage Trail with volunteer guides.

• Marlipins Museum – medieval building with ship models, smuggler contraband, and Roman artefacts.
• Ropetackle Arts Centre – multi-arts venue with a lively cafe bar.
• Shoreham Airport’s Art Deco terminal – often open for events and café visits.
• St. Mary de Haura Church – Norman and Gothic architecture with stunning stained glass.
• Shoreham Fort – restored Palmerston fort with exhibitions.
• Adur Estuary Trail – public art installations along the river path.
• Old Shoreham Railway Viaduct – impressive brick structure, part of the London to Brighton line.
• Norfolk Bridge – Grade II listed, built in 1830.

Outdoor Activities

With the South Downs, the river, and the sea all within reach, Shoreham is an outdoor lover’s paradise. The coastal South Downs Way footpath passes through the northern edge of the parish, offering spectacular views from the chalk cliffs to the Isle of Wight. The River Adur is perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and sailing, with rental equipment available at the Shoreham Sailing Club. Cyclists can use the National Cycle Network Route 2, which runs along the coast from Brighton to Hastings.

For birdwatchers, Shoreham Beach Local Nature Reserve and Widewater Lagoon are excellent spots for migratory birds. The town has several green spaces including Buckingham Park with its skate park, tennis courts, and open fields for sports. Fishing is popular from the beach or the pier (which was destroyed by storms but rebuilt). In summer, the beach is great for swimming, though lifeguards are only present in certain zones. The annual 'Shoreham to Newhaven' swim is a challenge for experienced open-water swimmers.

• Kayaking and paddleboarding on the River Adur (hire from 'Tidal Trails').
• Walking the South Downs Way (section from Shoreham to Devil’s Dyke).
• Cycling along the National Cycle Network Route 2.
• Sailing at Shoreham Sailing Club – dinghy and keelboat classes.
• Birdwatching at Widewater Lagoon – home to curlews, oystercatchers, and terns.
• Beach walks – the shingle beach stretches for miles west towards Worthing.
• Fishing (permit required from West Sussex Council).
• Running and jogging on the Adur Tidal Walls (4km round trip).
• Golf at the 18-hole Dyke Golf Club (on the South Downs nearby).
• Rock pooling at the harbour entrance at low tide.
• Picnicking at Buckingham Park or the Beach Green.
• Orienteering and geocaching in the South Downs.

Economy and Key Industries

Shoreham-by-Sea has a diversified local economy that blends traditional maritime activities with modern service industries. Historically, shipbuilding and port operations were the mainstay. Today, the Port of Shoreham remains a significant commercial harbour, handling cargo such as timber, aggregates, and grain. The airport also contributes, with business aviation, flight training, and an expanding aerospace cluster. However, the service sector now dominates, including retail, hospitality, and healthcare – offsetting the decline in manufacturing.

Tourism and the creative industries are growing, leveraging Shoreham's cultural assets and proximity to Brighton. The town is also popular with commuters; many residents work in Brighton, Gatwick, or London (via direct trains). The local economy benefits from the South Downs National Park, which attracts visitors for walking and cycling. Small businesses and freelancers thrive in the independent shops and co-working spaces. The town has a lower unemployment rate than the national average, and average wages are slightly above the West Sussex median.

Key growth sectors include renewable energy (onshore and offshore wind, solar) with proposals for a green hydrogen hub at the port. The University of Sussex and Brighton's tech start-up scene also have a knock-on effect, as some graduates choose Shoreham for its lower cost of living. The town has a balanced economy with resilience thanks to its port, tourism, and commuter base.

• Port of Shoreham – handles over 1 million tonnes of cargo annually.
• Brighton City Airport – general aviation, scheduled flights (limited), and maintenance.
• Ship repair and small boat building at the harbour.
• Retail sector: independent shops, local food producers, and a farmers' market.
• Hospitality and leisure – hotels, pubs, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
• Construction and property development – new housing and commercial projects.
• Creative industries – graphic design, film production, and arts.
• Healthcare – GP surgeries, dental clinics, and care homes.
• Renewable energy – wind turbine maintenance, solar installations.
• Education – schools, early years, and adult learning centres.
• Business services – accountancy, law, and estate agents.
• Aerospace – light aircraft manufacturing and training at Shoreham Airport.

Where to Live in Shoreham-by-Sea

Shoreham offers a variety of residential neighbourhoods, each with its own character. The 'Old Town' (east of the river) is the historic heart, with narrow streets, period cottages, and a village-like atmosphere. It’s popular with families and professionals who appreciate the proximity to amenities and schools. The 'Beach Green' area is closer to the sea, with modern apartments and terraced houses; many are holiday lets but permanent residents enjoy the sea views and promenade.

On the west bank of the Adur, 'Old Shoreham' (or Kingston Buci) has a more suburban feel with larger detached houses, good schools, and easy access to the South Downs. 'Upper Shoreham' lies north of the A27 and offers newer housing estates such as 'Gensing' and 'Churchill Park', popular with families because of green spaces and convenient transport links. The harbour area has a mix of converted warehouses and new-build apartments, attractive to young professionals and downsizers.

The housing market in Shoreham is competitive, with demand outstripping supply. Property prices are above the West Sussex average but lower than Brighton, making it a popular alternative. Rental yields are solid, especially for two-bedroom flats near the station. Areas like 'St. Nicolas Lane' and 'Middle Street' are known for their charm, while 'Lower Shoreham' offers more affordable options close to the port. Overall, Shoreham is a safe, clean town with a strong sense of community.

• Old Town (historic, characterful, village vibe) – high demand, higher prices.
• Beach Green (seafront, modern apartments) – good for sea lovers and investors.
• Old Shoreham / Kingston Buci (suburban, family-friendly) – large homes and gardens.
• Upper Shoreham (new developments) – affordable modern housing.
• Harbour area (converted industrial, waterside) – trendy lofts and flats.
• St. Nicolas Lane area (Victorian terraces) – popular with young families.
• Middle Street (historic cottages) – charming but often steep stairs.
• Lower Shoreham (near the port, cheaper) – closer to industrial zones.
• St. Lawrence Avenue (quiet residential) – mature trees and links to Downs.
• Surrey Street (central, near station) – convenient for commuters.

Formalities and Visas in Shoreham-by-Sea

As part of the United Kingdom, Shoreham-by-Sea follows UK immigration laws. Visitors from many countries (including the EU, US, Canada, Australia, etc.) can stay for up to 6 months without a visa for tourism, family visits, or short business trips. However, since Brexit, EU citizens require a visa or settled status for long stays. All non-UK residents need a passport and may require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for short visits when the system rolls out fully. For longer stays (work, study, family), a visa application to the UK Home Office is necessary.

The main visa categories include the Skilled Worker visa for those with a job offer from a licensed sponsor, the Student visa for courses at registered institutions, and the Family visa for joining a UK relative. Health and care workers have a dedicated visa route. Applicants must typically provide biometrics, English language proof (if required), and evidence of funds. The local council (Adur District Council) does not handle visas but can advise on local services. Immigration checks are carried out at border control; after arrival, migrants must register with a GP and open a bank account.

For those moving permanently, the Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) can be applied after 5 years of residence. Citizenship is possible after 6 years (including 12 months with ILR). The process is managed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), with appointments available at Croydon or via the premium service. It is advisable to consult an immigration solicitor for complex cases. Shoreham has no specific immigration office, but the nearest large settlement with a Home Office office is Brighton or Crawley.

• Standard Visitor visa (up to 6 months) – no visa needed for many nationalities.
• Skilled Worker visa – employer sponsorship required; minimum salary threshold.
• Student visa – for courses at universities/colleges (e.g., University of Brighton).
• Family visa – for partners, children, or dependent relatives of UK residents.
• Health and Care Worker visa – fast track for medical professionals.
• Youth Mobility Scheme (for eligible countries aged 18-30).
• Global Talent visa – for leaders in arts, science, and technology.
• Innovator Founder visa – for new business ventures.
• No visa required for short-term business meetings (non-paid).
• EU Settlement Scheme – for EU, EEA, Swiss citizens already resident by 31 Dec 2020.
• Biometric appointments needed at UKVCAS centre (Brighton or Gatwick).
• English language requirement for most work/study visas (CEFR B1).
• Immigration Health Surcharge payable (currently £624 per year).
• Visa processing times: 3-8 weeks for standard, 5 days for priority (extra fee).

Working in Shoreham-by-Sea

The job market in Shoreham-by-Sea is varied but modest compared to nearby Brighton. Major local employers include the port authority, the airport, Adur District Council, and several logistics companies. The health sector also offers opportunities at GP surgeries, care homes, and the local community hospital. Retail and hospitality provide many jobs, especially during the summer tourist season. Commuting to Brighton (20 minutes by train) or London (1 hour 15 minutes) opens up many more opportunities; a large proportion of residents work outside the town.

The town has a growing small business scene, including tech startups, creative agencies, and freelance professionals. Co-working spaces like 'The Dock' and 'The Old School House' provide base for independent workers. Average salaries in Shoreham are consistent with the South East: around £30,000-£35,000 for professional roles, though lower in hospitality. The minimum wage (as of 2025) is £11.44 per hour for over-21s. Working culture is typical British: polite, with a good work-life balance encouraged. Dress tends to be smart casual in most offices.

Job seekers can use local resources such as the Jobcentre Plus in Worthing, online portals like Indeed, and networking events at the Ropetackle. There is also a weekly recruitment drive at the Shoreham Centre. Self-employment is common, especially among tradespeople and creative professionals. For those in the marine sector, the port occasionally lists vacancies for crane operators, ship pilots, and engineers. Labour mobility is good due to excellent transport links.

• Key sectors: port & logistics, aviation, retail, hospitality, healthcare, creative industries.
• Major employers: Brighton City Airport, Shoreham Port, Adur District Council, Mercedes-Benz (Hove), local schools.
• Average salary range: £25k–£45k; median ~£32k.
• National minimum wage (2025) £11.44/hour (21+) , £10.18 (18-20) , £7.55 (under 18) .
• Pension auto-enrolment for employees earning over £10,000/year.
• Holiday entitlement: 28 days (including bank holidays) for full-time workers.
• Maternity leave: up to 52 weeks (39 paid), paternity: 2 weeks paid.
• Flexible working requests legally allowed after 26 weeks.
• Self-employed register with HMRC for National Insurance (Class 2 and 4).
• Trade unions active: Unite, GMB (in port and council).
• Weekend working common in retail and hospitality.
• Zero-hour contracts exist but considered insecure by some.

Studying in Shoreham-by-Sea

While Shoreham itself does not have a university, it lies within commuting distance of several higher education institutions. The University of Brighton’s Falmer campus is about 15 minutes by train or bus. The University of Sussex is also in Falmer, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Both universities have excellent reputations, particularly for arts, engineering, and science. For those seeking vocational training, Northbrook College in Worthing (now part of the Chichester College Group) offers further education courses, apprenticeships, and professional qualifications.

Shoreham has a number of well-regarded primary and secondary schools. The main secondary school is Shoreham Academy (formerly Shoreham College), rated 'Good' by Ofsted. The Sir Robert Woodard Academy in nearby Lancing also serves the area. For primary education, Swiss Gardens Primary School, St. Nicolas C of E Primary School, and Heron Way Primary School are popular choices. Private school options include Brighton College and Roedean (both in Brighton).

Student life for those studying in Falmer or Brighton often includes living in Shoreham due to lower rents. The town offers a quieter, cheaper alternative to bustling Brighton while still being close to the city’s nightlife. There are also adult education classes at the Shoreham Centre, and the local library hosts language groups and study spaces. International students must have a Student visa and demonstrate sufficient funds. The universities provide support services including accommodation, careers advice, and immigration guidance.

• University of Brighton (Falmer campus) – 15 mins by train; courses in media, health, business, etc.
• University of Sussex – research-intensive; top for development studies, psychology, sciences.
• Northbrook College (Worthing) – vocational, apprenticeships, and T-levels.
• Shoreham Academy – secondary school and sixth form (state-funded).
• Swiss Gardens Primary – outstanding Ofsted rating.
• St. Nicolas C of E Primary – good with strong community links.
• Local library – free Wi-Fi, study areas, events.
• Student accommodation in Shoreham: shared houses (£450–£600 pcm) , studio flats (£600–£800 pcm).
• Transport: frequent trains and buses from Shoreham to Brighton universities.
• Part-time work for students: cafes, shops, and hotel jobs available.
• English language schools in Brighton (e.g., British Study Centres) accessible.
• Scholarships available from universities for international students.
• Student support services include mental health counselling, writing workshops.
• Local sports clubs: Shoreham FC (football), Shoreham Hockey Club, etc.

Finance and Banks in Shoreham-by-Sea

Shoreham-by-Sea has all the standard UK banking facilities. The main high street banks have branches: Barclays, Lloyds, NatWest, and Santander. However, like many towns, some branches have reduced opening hours or offer only digital services. Post offices (in the town centre and Upper Shoreham) provide basic banking services such as withdrawals, deposits, and bill payments. Building societies like Nationwide and Skipton also have offices for mortgages and savings.

The UK banking system is highly digital: most people use mobile apps, contactless cards, and online transfers. For expats or newcomers, it is essential to have a UK bank account for salary payments and bill payments. Requirements include proof of identity (passport) and proof of address (utility bill or tenancy agreement). Some digital-only banks like Monzo, Starling, and Revolut are popular for their ease of use and no fees abroad. The local credit union, 'South East Credit Union', offers ethical savings and loans.

Taxes are managed by HMRC. Income tax is deducted from salaries via PAYE. National Insurance contributions fund state benefits and the NHS. VAT is 20% on most goods and services. For homeowners, council tax is payable to Adur District Council (bands A-H). Sole traders and limited companies must file annual self-assessment tax returns. Financial advisors are available in town; the local Citizens Advice Bureau offers free money advice.

• Branches of Barclays, Lloyds, NatWest, Santander in Shoreham High Street.
• Post Office (Barclays and NatWest services) at 33 High Street.
• Nationwide Building Society (savings and mortgages) on Middle Street.
• Digital banks: Monzo, Starling, Revolut – easy app setup from abroad.
• Opening account: need passport, visa (if applicable), proof of UK address.
• Current account – no monthly fee for standard accounts; overdrafts available.
• Contactless payments widely accepted (limit £100 for single payment).
• ATMs free to use in town; some charge fees for private ones.
• Tax code: automatically assigned when starting employment.
• Self-assessment deadline January 31 for online returns.
• Council tax bands: A (£1,200/yr) to H (£2,500/yr) approximate 2025 rates.
• Pension contribution auto-enrolment – 5% employee, 3% employer (minimum).

Health Care in Shoreham-by-Sea

The National Health Service (NHS) provides universal health care in the UK, free at the point of use for residents. In Shoreham, the main GP practices are the 'Shoreham Health Centre' (on Pond Road) and 'St. Catherine’s Surgery' (on Glenville Road). Both offer appointments, prescriptions, and minor surgery. There is also a dental surgery at 'Shoreham Dental Practice' (private and NHS). For emergencies, the nearest hospital is the 'Royal Sussex County Hospital' in Brighton (20 minutes by road) or the 'Worthing Hospital' (12 minutes). Both have A&E departments.

Primary care is also accessible through community pharmacies, opticians (specsavers in town), and a local community mental health team. The 'South East Coast Ambulance Service' covers the area. For non-urgent medical advice, NHS 111 is available by phone or online. The town also has a small community hospital: 'Shoreham Hospital', now mainly used for outpatient services, X-rays, and physiotherapy. Private healthcare options include 'The Montefiore Hospital' in Hove and 'Nuffield Health Brighton' for those with insurance or self-pay.

International visitors should have travel insurance covering health costs as NHS treatment is not free for non-residents except in emergencies. New migrants must register with a local GP upon arrival. Routine vaccinations (including COVID-19 and flu) are provided at GP practices. The town has a well-equipped leisure centre with a gym and swimming pool that promotes public health.

• Shoreham Health Centre (Pond Road) – GP, nurses, chronic disease clinics.
• St. Catherine’s Surgery – another GP practice.
• Shoreham Dental Practice – NHS and private dentistry.
• Community pharmacy: Boots (High Street) and Lloyds (Middle Street).
• Optician: Specsavers (High Street) for eye tests and glasses.
• A&E: Royal Sussex County Hospital (Brighton) or Worthing Hospital.
• Shoreham Hospital – minor injuries unit? No, outpatient only; nearest MIU at Worthing.
• Mental health support: Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (community teams).
• Health visitors and school nurses – local child health.
• Private GP: 'The Brighton Private GP' offers home visits.
• Travel clinic: Boots travel health (appointment only).
• NHS 111 – free, 24/7 helpline for non-emergency medical advice.
• Health Insurance: Expat recommended to have private insurance for quicker access.
• Maternity care: Antenatal clinics at Shoreham Health Centre; delivery at Brighton or Worthing.

Accommodation in Shoreham-by-Sea

Accommodation options in Shoreham range from historic cottages and Georgian townhouses to modern flats and new-build estates. The rental market is active, especially for professionals commuting to Brighton and London. Typical rents for a one-bedroom flat in the town centre are £700-£900 per month; two-bedroom houses from £900-£1,200; larger family homes £1,300-£1,800. Buying prices are higher: average house price is around £400,000 (2025), with flats around £250,000 and detached houses over £600,000. Council tax band B or C is common.

For short-term visitors, there are several hotels: the 'Harbour Hotel' (at the port), 'The Bridge Hotel' (river view), and many B&Bs like 'The Old Toll House'. Self-catering holiday cottages are also available, especially near the beach. Long-term landlords require referencing, deposit (typically 5 weeks’ rent), and a tenancy agreement (AST). The local estate agents include Mansell McTaggart, Jacobs Steel, and Charles Wright. It is advisable to view properties quickly as good ones go fast.

• Red brick terraces – typical in the Old Town; period features but sometimes no parking.
• Modern apartments near Beach Green – sea views, secure parking, high-spec.
• Semi-det