St Simon & St Jude, East Dean

East Dean has an ancient downland church, almost entirely built of flint and its tower pre-dates the Norman conquest in 1066. The chancel and nave were completed by the end of the 14th century and the pulpit is dated 1623.

Both East Dean and Friston churches have an unusual Tapsell Gate which had the dual advantage of keeping cattle out of churchyards and allowing the efficient passage of coffins being carried to and from the church during burials.