The charity has been established for public benefit for the following charitable purposes (‘objects’):
1. to promote the study of archaeology by encouraging all people from local and wider communities to participate in, engage, study and research the archaeology and history of east and west sussex; and/or
2. to establish and maintain museums for the benefit of the public by managing, maintaining, leasing, accepting as a gift or legacy and making accessible museums and historic sites, monuments, collections and properties in the counties of east and west sussex; and/or
3. the advancement of education for the public benefit by advancing life-long learning opportunities for children and adults in archaeology and history, both at the society’s properties and elsewhere.