The History of Seaford

Today Seaford has a population of about 22,000. At settlement has been on this site since the Middle Ages when Seaford was one of the main ports serving Southern England.

Sadly, the town's fortunes declined due to coastal sedimentation silting up it's harbour and continual invasions by French pirates.

During the 14th and 15th Centuries, the French burned down the town on several occasions.

In the 1500s the people of Seaford became known as the "cormorants" due to criminal activities & their enthusiasm for looting ships which had wrecked in the bay.

Local legend says that Seaford residents would, on occasion, encourage ships to run aground by placing faux harbour lights on the cliff tops.

Seaford's fortunes were revived in the 19th century with the building of the railway connecting the town to both Lewes and London. It became a small seaside resort, and still attracts many holiday visitors every year.