Winchelsea

Winchelsea in East Sussex Town Guide

About Winchelsea in East Sussex

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.

What’s new?

Rye Town Hall
Rye Town Hall

Built in 1742, the elegant Georgian Town Hall in Rye is an ideal venue for your special day. A unique … more

Listed in: Town Halls

Message Board

Lack of EV Charge Point

Hello – I drive an all-electric car and want to visit Winchelsea. But you don’t have any public charging points! … more

Tools with a Mission

Hi everyone, During this time of lockdown most people are spending time sorting out the garage, shed or cupboards. Whilst … more

Attractions and Activities

Rye Museum: East Street

Rye Museum has two sites in the town: Ypres Tower and East Street which is the main site for exhibits and public events such as talks and coffee mornings. It houses changing exhibitions concerning different aspects of Rye life. The … more

Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin

For almost 900 years the Parish Church of Rye, dedicated to St Mary the Virgin, has dominated the hill on which the old town stands. It has stood through good times and bad. In 1377 when the town was looted … more

Winchelsea Beach

Winchelsea Beach is a pebble beach located between Camber and Pett Level. With views over Rye Bay, Dungeness can be clearly seen to the east and Fairlight cliffs to the west.

Accommodation

Winchelsea Lodge

Designed as a traditional barn, The Lodge at Winchelsea is located between Rye and Hastings, 1.5 miles from Winchelsea Beach.

Quarter House

Enjoy historic & romantic beamed surroundings in the heart of the Medieval walled Citadel of Rye. This unusual converted Grade II listed two-storey apartment retains original features including open log fire, original wooden beams and floors dating back to the … more

Cadborough Cottages

There are four delightful one bedroom cottages, which have been lovingly renovated from the farm building at Cadborough Farm. One mile from Rye town centre yet in the heart of beautiful countryside. Peaceful location with plenty of on-site parking and … more

Restaurants

The Gallivant

The Gallivant Restaurant With Rooms is across the road from the dunes and the beautiful sandy beach beyond. Inspired by the coastal motels you might find in California. It is a a relaxing hideaway from the stresses and strains of … more

Big Guys French Fries

We’re an independent small restaurant located steps from the centre of town. We’re proud to be the favourite for locals to meet friends for a beer or call for a fresh “big guy burger”. We serve juicy big burgers and … more

Haydens Coffee Shop

Fair trade and organic tea, coffee and hot chocolate. Freshly prepared breakfasts, lunches and cakes served in a warm friendly atmosphere every day. Fully licensed.

Towns and villages near Winchelsea …

Explore Winchelsea ...