Newhaven Museum

Newhaven Museum

A project of the Newhaven Historical Society, this museum covers the rich history of the port and town of Newhaven. Exhibits include historic photographs, maps, and artwork, and special displays on the Newhaven’s Lifeboat Service, the Parker Pen Company and the Cross-Channel Ferries.

There are local publications, paintings, and scale models of the port and ships, as well as historical documents covering the history of the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway(later to become Southern Railway). Find out about the history of the Bishopstone Tide Mill, which operated from 1761-1883.

There is a special exhibit on the Dieppe Raid of 19 August 1942 (Operation Jubilee), with contemporary reports and actual battle plans. Another WWII-related exhibit covers the secret tunnels used as a base to control and monitor shipping off the Sussex coast.

The museum holds an archive of over 10,000 photographs, and the full collection has been digitised so it can easily be searched. There is also a collection of local history and genealogical material useful for those wishing to trace their family history. A small admission fee applies.