History

Peacehaven was established in 1916 by entrepreneur Charles Neville whose plans were heavily influenced by the American grid system.  It was initially named New Anzac on sea in memory of the soldiers of Australia and New Zealand who were allies during WW1.

The town started life as a retirement location for war veterans on account of the fresh, sea air but soon became a location for families wanting to escape the overcrowded capital. Plots were sold enabling people to self-build their homes, giving them the chance of a new life that many working class families would not have otherwise been able to afford. It became what was known as one of England’s “Plotlands” and  saw rise to an eclectic mix of shacks and shelters, built with recycled materials. Some families even made homes from disused railway carriages! Peacehaven became a place of hope and adventure, making the most of the land and the opportunity of a new life.