Winchelsea is a historic ancient town which stands two miles west of the town of Rye. It was founded in 1288 as a port town to replace Old Winchelsea, which was overwhlemed by the sea during the 13th century, and is a splendid example of a medieval planned town, with a grid pattern of streets.
Winchelsea, along with Rye, was one of the ‘Ancient Towns’ who joined the Cinque Port Confederation in the 12th century. During the Hundred Years War, the town was attacked by the French and Spanish, but its demise came with the gradual silting of its harbour. Winchelsea was still fairly prosperous in 1500 but by 1560, it had dwindled to a “settlement” of 60 households.
One of the founders of the Methodist Church, John Wesley, preached his last outdoor sermon in the town on the 7th October 1790, when he was aged 87.
Today, Winchelsea is an unspoilt small town of much character, well worth exploring, with delightful walks and fine views towards the coast. There is a pub and a motel, both providing accommodation and serving lunchtime and evening meals, and a small coffee shop. Visitors may be interested in the surviving town gates, the medieval Church of St Thomas and a small museum which is open daily during the summer months. In the churchyard is the grave of much-loved comedian Spike Milligan.
Built in 1742, the elegant Georgian Town Hall in Rye is an ideal venue for your special day. A unique … more
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from 2:00pm
Winchelsea New Hall, Winchelsea
Category: Shows
Hello – I drive an all-electric car and want to visit Winchelsea. But you don’t have any public charging points! … more
Hi everyone, During this time of lockdown most people are spending time sorting out the garage, shed or cupboards. Whilst … more
Move | Breathe | Restore Join JoJo, founder of Yoga Creative, for classes that nourish and transform body mind and soul. Move, breathe and restore an inner sense of wellbeing this Autumn. See website for full class schedule in Rye, … more
Lamb House was built in 1723 by James Lamb. Henry James leased the property and later purchased in 1899. It was here he wrote the Awkward Age, The Wings of the Dove, the Ambassadors and The Golden Bowl. In the … more
Designed as a traditional barn, The Lodge at Winchelsea is located between Rye and Hastings, 1.5 miles from Winchelsea Beach.
Rye’s white smock windmill is a grade II listed building and one of its most famous landmarks. Tucked away in one of England’s quaintest coastal towns, our welcoming Bed and Breakfast is ideally located with the High Street and the … more
Set in 5 acres and yet just over a five minute walk to the town centre and citadel of Rye, Glencoe is peacefully situated overlooking fields towards the ancient town of Winchelsea. The many excellent restaurants and public houses of … more
A traditional but modern country inn located in the heart of Rye, just a couple of miles from the coast. Specialises in using fresh and local produce to create good innovative home cooked food from Field Farm Sea and offer … more
Welcome to Webbe’s in Rye. A vibrant lively restaurant atmosphere with open plan kitchen area where you can view your meal in its creation, for serious diners and families alike. This upbeat eatery will meet your every need when you … more