Publications
Swiss Gardens, Shoreham-by-Sea, by Roy Sharp, published 1992 in Sussex Industrial History (issue no. 22, article, pp.2-8, ISSN: 0263-5151) accessible at: The Keep [LIB/506526] Download PDF
Abstract:Throughout the second half of the last century Shoreham-by-Sea in West Sussex was a mecca for many thousands of people. They came from all age groups, from all walks of life, from near and from far; and all Intent upon one thing - pleasure! Daily, visitors would arrive by train and tram, by boat and bus, aboard coach or carriage, on bicycles and on foot. It has been said that on occasions as many as five thousand "pleasure seekers" spent the day In Shoreham. At the time this was equivalent to twice the residential population of the town.
How was is that this modest harbour township was chosen as a destination by such large numbers? Why did people from as far away as Portsmouth and London descend on Shoreham rather than, say, Brighton or Worthing? What was the attraction that caused these Victorians to come In droves on their "cheap day" excursions, their Sunday School treats, their family picnics, their firm's outings, or even their clandestine appointments? For over half a century the vast army of "day trippers" which flocked to Shoreham came eager to sample the delights of a single emporium renowned throughout the South of England for its entertainment - namely the "Swiss Gardens".
How was is that this modest harbour township was chosen as a destination by such large numbers? Why did people from as far away as Portsmouth and London descend on Shoreham rather than, say, Brighton or Worthing? What was the attraction that caused these Victorians to come In droves on their "cheap day" excursions, their Sunday School treats, their family picnics, their firm's outings, or even their clandestine appointments? For over half a century the vast army of "day trippers" which flocked to Shoreham came eager to sample the delights of a single emporium renowned throughout the South of England for its entertainment - namely the "Swiss Gardens".