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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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
The beach at Rye Harbour is a picturesque and unspoiled coastal stretch situated at the mouth of the river Rother at Rye Harbour along to Winchelsea Beach to the west. Generally a pebble beach (although there are sandy areas to … more
The Rye Museum has two sites, the Ypres Tower (early 14th century) and the East Street site. The Tower has had many roles in its history from a fortification to protect the town, to a private dwelling, a prison and … more
The Mary Stanford Lifeboat House is a historic building located in Rye Harbour, East Sussex, England. This iconic structure serves as a memorial to the tragic events that unfolded during a daring rescue attempt in 1928. The lifeboat house is … more
Designed as a traditional barn, The Lodge at Winchelsea is located between Rye and Hastings, 1.5 miles from Winchelsea Beach.
Coldharbour Cottage won the National Silver Award for the best Self Catering Cottage in 2010. The cottage itself has been renovated to a high standard whilst retaining many original features. The original oak beams, inglenook fireplace, old bakers oven and … more
Ockman Cottage is a boutique holiday cottage located in a quiet twitten situated in the heart of the citadel of Rye. An ideal base for exploring the towns cobbled streets, antiques, restaurants, inns,independent boutiques and galleries together with the surrounding … more
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
One of England’s oldest and loveliest inns, with Norman cellars dating from 1156, the Mermaid, rebuilt in 1420, offers tradition and charm in abundance. A jewel in the crown of Rye, the inn has a wide range of accommodation including … more
Located in the Sussex countryside 4 miles from the historic town of Rye, Flackley Ash is a delightful Grade II listed Georgian country house with an award-winning restaurant, a bar and spa facilities. The hotel’s spa features various treatment rooms. … more