Originally named New Anzak on Sea as a result of a competition, Peacehaven was created in 1915 by business entrepreneur Charles Neville after he saw an expanse of derelict land that he believed was ideal for development. Charles had spent some time in both Canada and Australia where he learnt how to deal in land and on his return to England soon bought several acres of land in the Parish of Piddinghoe and set up a company to develop it.
The singer comedienne Gracie Fields for some years made her home in Peacehaven. Bob Copper was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to preserve his musical roots, an honorary masters degree for his services to country life. He was awarded the MBE for services to music and still singing up until his death in 2004.