It consists of three distinct settlements, separated from each other by an open area of downland called Telscombe Tye.

The parish retains its ancient boundaries, which reach from the village to the coast, and the major part of the population is in the two coastal settlements.

The parish includes part of the Brighton to Newhaven Cliffs Site of Special Scientific Interest.

[3] The manor of Telscombe is recorded as early as the 10th century, when it was given by King Edgar to the minster of Hyde, and remained in those hands until the dissolution in 1538.

This practice was controversial because of the costs of providing and maintaining this accommodation, including the employment of butlers and other staff, and was phased out by the Labour government from 2001.

The Tye forms a natural break between the settlements of Saltdean and Telscombe Cliffs/Peacehaven, and marks the eastern end of a continuously built up area (Greater Brighton) from Shoreham in West Sussex.

As designated common, the land was unenclosed and on a map dated 1811 is shown as "Sheep Down"[10] on which local stockholders had grazing rights.

[11] Elections are held every four years and, as in neighbouring Peacehaven town council, are contested by candidates of the main political parties.