The South Downs geology supports agriculture and mineral deposits, which allowed farming, early industry and life to flourish. In addition to this, there was a natural harbour for transport. The "Port" in Portslade is therefore self-explanatory, with "Slade" deriving from the Germanic word slaed, meaning a shallow valley.

From around 8000BC, nomadic hunter-gatherers found their way to Sussex, possibly from mainland Europe, which was still connected to England by massive ice sheets. It was a tough life, with families constantly on the move in a never-ending search for food.

Farming became more widespread in Britain by 4000BC, and people tended to settle in an area, rather than wander in search of food. Cattle, sheep and goats would be reared for food, and small communities of people were common.

By the end of the late bronze age - about 800BC – the population was increasing, and the use of metal to make tools and everyday items was widespread. Indeed, a large metal working site has also been discovered by the A27 by-pass. There is even evidence of a 2000 year old Portslade Henge, which archaeologists discovered near Mile Oak Farm.

From 40AD to 400AD sees the advent of the Roman empire. Drove Road, which goes past the old riding stables and Peter Gladwin School, is thought to be an original Roman road. But it is not until just after 1066 that there is any documented evidence of Portslade. And that’s where our trail begins. 

Your walk will take you back to the times of William the Conqueror, through to Henry VIII, and up to the Second World War. You will read of triumph, tragedy, royal power struggles, poverty and wealth. There was even a Portslade resident as a named character in a Shakespeare play. Enjoy your time travel walk through Portslade’s incredible history.