5 Great Reasons to Live in Shoreham-by-Sea

Looking for a vibrant coastal town that offers a laid-back lifestyle with plenty of charm? Shoreham-by-Sea, nestled between the South Downs National Park and the sea in Sussex, England, might just be the perfect place. Offering a unique blend of rich history, natural beauty, and a thriving local community, this hidden gem is growing in popularity for those seeking a more peaceful alternative to nearby Brighton and Hove. And with property prices on the rise, now is the time to discover why Shoreham is such a desirable place to live.

Here are five fantastic reasons to make Shoreham-by-Sea your home.

1. A Friendly, Close-knit Community

Shoreham has a warm, welcoming atmosphere that you’ll notice as soon as you settle in. It may be small, but it’s known for its strong sense of community and the friendly faces you’ll meet in its cosy pubs and cafés. After a short time, you may find yourself on a first-name basis with locals, whether you’re grabbing a coffee at the much-loved Teddy's Tearooms, or enjoying a pint at The Bridge Inn while soaking in the views over the River Adur. It’s this small-town charm that makes Shoreham feel like a place where everyone knows your name, giving it a real “village” feel despite being on the doorstep of other bustling South Coast towns.

2. Rich History and Iconic Landmarks

Shoreham-by-Sea has a history that dates back to pre-Roman times. One of its most iconic buildings is the St Mary de Haura Church, which dates back to the 12th century and is a must-see for history lovers. Another historical site is Shoreham Fort, an impressive 19th-century coastal defence that offers a glimpse into Shoreham's maritime past. Among the many small forts constructed along England's Southern coastline over the centuries, only two remain in near-original condition, with Shoreham Fort being the more in-tact of the two.

For a deeper dive into Shoreham’s maritime history, visit The Marlipins Museum, which is housed in a remarkable 12th-century Norman building. Its distinctive flint and limestone chequerboard façade is as captivating as the museum's vast collection, chronicling the town's rich seafaring past. Exploring these historic spots is a wonderful way to connect with the town's rich heritage, with each site offering a story of its own.

3. Shoreham's One-of-a-kind Shopping Experience

If you love discovering unique finds, Shoreham’s high street and boutique shopping scene is sure to delight. Tarmount Studios, tucked away in the heart of the town centre, is a hidden enclave of charming shops and cafés which offers something for everyone. From vintage clothing and retro treasures to unique home décor and art pieces, you're bound to find something you'll love. Don’t miss the opportunity to stop by La Poissonnerie, a local favourite for fresh, locally caught fish—perfect for seafood lovers. For more everyday essentials, Shoreham also boasts high street names like Next, Marks & Spencer, and B&Q, making it a convenient place to live.

In addition to its loveable independent shops, Shoreham offers a lively market scene. The Shoreham Farmers’ Market, held on the second Saturday of each month, features a variety of local produce, artisan foods, and handmade crafts, allowing residents to support local businesses while enjoying fresh, quality products. Be sure to arrive in good time to sample all the best produce.

4. The Best of Both Worlds: Nature and Coastal Living

Shoreham-by-Sea is the ideal location for those who want the seaside town experience without the hustle and bustle of a busy city centre. The perfect location for commuters, Brighton is only 10 minutes away on the South Coast Rail Line, which also offers direct trains to London Victoria, Gatwick Airport, and Southampton. Buses and trains run every half an hour, making travelling as easy as possible for the daily commuter. Popping to Brighton for a night out is no hassle at all. With its excellent transport links, living in Shoreham means you can enjoy the peaceful, seaside lifestyle without sacrificing access to city amenities.

One of Shoreham’s greatest draws is its incredible natural beauty. With the beach just a stone’s throw away, you can enjoy the best of seaside living. Shoreham Beach, made up of shingles, pebbles, and sand, was declared a Local Nature Reserve in 2006 and is teeming with wildlife and vibrant wildflowers. It's also a hotspot for watersports enthusiasts, with windsurfing, kite surfing, and paddle-boarding being particularly popular along this stretch of coast. 

For those who prefer a peaceful walk, following the River Adur inland will lead you straight into the stunning South Downs National Park. This beautiful landscape is ideal for cycling, hiking, dog walks, and family picnics, offering endless opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the English countryside right on Shoreham’s doorstep.

Whether you're a photographer capturing the scenery or simply enjoying the outdoors, Shoreham offers a balance of beach and countryside that’s hard to beat.

5. A Thriving Arts and Culture Scene

Shoreham isn’t just about sun, sea, and nature—it also has a thriving arts scene, centred around the Ropetackle Arts Centre. This award-winning venue, run entirely by local volunteers, is the cultural heart of Shoreham-by-Sea and hosts a variety of events, from live music and comedy to theatre and film screenings. The centre attracts high-quality performances, making it a fantastic night out for a fraction of the price you’d pay in nearby Brighton. The arts centre is also a great venue for private hire, so whether you’re hosting a party, running your own fitness classes, or looking for a unique night out, Ropetackle offers an experience that’s truly community-driven.

For art lovers, Shoreham Art Gallery is a must-visit. This artist-run gallery showcases a stunning range of locally produced art, from paintings and ceramics to jewellery and textiles, making it a hub for creative talent from in and around the area. Whether you’re looking to admire or purchase unique pieces, the gallery offers something for every taste.

If you prefer your culture in liquid form, just a stone's throw away from our Shoreham-by-Sea Property Hub you'll find Palate Bottle Shop. Featuring some delightful drinks from the best growing regions across the globe, Palate also showcases local and special wines from across the South East. Not only a curated plonk paradise, Palate hosts regular wine tastings with industry experts to provide insights into each selection. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or simply looking to explore new flavours, Palate Bottle Shop creates an inviting atmosphere to enjoy and learn about wines.

Ready to Make the Move to Shoreham?

Shoreham-by-Sea offers the perfect blend of history, nature, and community spirit. Whether you’re drawn by its beautiful beaches, cultural scene, or its proximity to major cities, there’s something here for everyone.

If you’re considering moving to Shoreham, get in touch with Nick Williams and our friendly team at our Shoreham-by-Sea Property Hub. We’re here to help you find your dream home in this coastal town—call us on 01273 661577 today!