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.

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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

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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 Hire

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm Closed weekends unless by prior arrangement for bike/wheelchair hire. CYCLE HIRE Good quality all-terrain & touring cycles for hire £20 per day or £15 for 4 hours (conditions apply) Close to railway … 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

Harbour Cycles

We are based in Rye Harbour opposite the Lifeboat station, and next to Rye Harbour nature reserve. Take a bicycle and ride through the 1150 acres of the nature reserve via the designated trails, see map. or stay on the … more

Accommodation

Winchelsea Lodge

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

The Salty Shepherd

Combining the peace and quiet of a rural farm setting in the beautiful East Sussex countryside with Camber Sands, one of the most fabulous beaches on the South Coast, our shepherds hut offers you a genuinely unique luxury glamping experience. … 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

Globe Inn Marsh

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

Webbe’s at the Fish Café

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

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