Ashburnham
Ashburnham in East Sussex Village Guide
About Ashburnham in East Sussex
Ashburnham has a long history and is mentioned in the Domesday Book. It gets its name from the local stream, which is the Ashbourne. The village is scattered over a wide area and is concealed in a labyrinth of lanes. It was once the centre of a thriving iron ore industry and its blast furnace was the last to close in Sussex.
Ashburnham Place lies in a beautiful park and gardens, designed by Capability Brown. The Ashburnham family had connections with the village, which can be traced back to the 12th century, until 1953 when Lady Catherine Ashburnham died. Today the Ashburnham Christian Trust uses the family house and buildings.
St Peter’s parish church lies close to the house and is well worth a visit as it holds remarkable monuments dedicated to the Ashburnham family. It is said the John Ashburnham, who served as the King’s Groom of the Bedchamber to King Charles I brought back some clothes worn by the king at the time of his execution in 1649. These relics were kept in the church, as they were believed to have healing properties if touched.
Attractions and Activities
Bexhill Coronation Bandstand
The Bexhill Coronation Bandstand holds a significant place in history and culture. Beyond its transformation into a multi-purpose space in 2023, it has played a role in the town’s social life and events over the years. Originally commissioned by the … more
The Observatory Science Centre
Once home of the Royal Greenwich Observatory (RGO), The Observatory Science Centre is now a thriving visitor attraction. The giant historic telescopes left behind by the RGO form just a small part of this science and discovery centre. Over 100 … more
Battle Methodist Church
Battle Methodist Church meets at their Emmanuel Centre on Harrier Lane off Marley Lane. The centre is designed for mixed church and community use with three well equipped meeting rooms and a coffee lounge. Full disabled access and large car … more
Accommodation
Rosemary Cottage
Situated in 1066 country in a rural location. Rosemary Cottage is set on the edge of Hooe Village near Battle (6 miles), Bexhill(4 miles) and Eastbourne (8 miles). There are castles, vineyards, beaches, walks, bird watching, children’s amusement parks, golf, … more
Seascape
Located in Bexhill and only 200 metres from Bexhill Beach, Seascape provides accommodation with sea views, free WiFi and free private parking. The 4-star holiday home is 19 km from Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park. The property is non-smoking … more
Caldbec House
Offering a garden and garden view, Caldbec House is situated in Battle, 26 km from Eastbourne Pier and 42 km from Glyndebourne Opera House. Both free WiFi and parking on-site are available at the holiday home free of charge. The … more
Restaurants
De La Warr Pavilion
The first public Modernist building to be opened in the UK in 1935, this Grade 1 listed, internationally renowned icon re-opened after a £9m lottery funded restoration and redevelopment. It is now the South East region’s most significant centre for … more
The Bannatyne Spa Hotel
Set amid 38 acres of woodland and gardens, 3 miles away from the historic towns of Hastings and Battle in East Sussex, the hotel is an ideal base to explore 1066 country. The house was built in 1719 and remodelled … more
The Crown Hotel
Situated in the heart of Hailsham, The Crown Hotel offers a vibrant cafe, traditional bar and modern bedrooms, and is only a 20-minute drive from Eastbourne. The Crown Hotel cafe serves a modern bistro menu, light snacks and breakfasts whilst … more