Bodiam
Bodiam in East Sussex Village Guide
About Bodiam in East Sussex
Bodiam Castle, alongside the River Rother, could have come straight out of a fairytale complete with drawbridge and moat. It was built in the 14th century by Sir Edward Dalymgriggenot as defence against invasion by the French and also as his family home. The castle remains much as he built it, being maintained by the National Trust.
At the beginning of the last century the area around Bodiam was full of hop gardens, producing hops for Guinness. It was where Londoners would look forward to come with their children in the late summer and early autumn to harvest the bines in beautiful countryside.
The church of St Giles is situated in the centre of Bodiam village, but the village pub, which dates back to the 14th century, was built to provide accommodation for visitors to the castle and is opposite the castle entrance. Steam trains of the Kent and East Sussex Railway from Tenterden and Northiam stop at the recently refurbished Bodiam station which is a short walk from the castle.
What’s new?
E-Bikes Direct
Established in 2005 and based in Bodiam, E-Bikes Direct is the UK’s No. 1 for electric bike sales. We offer … more
Listed in: Bicycles and Ebikes
What’s 🔥?
Ewhurst and Staplecross Bonfire
, 7:00pm – 11:00pm
Staplecross
Next event
Brede Farmers' Market
, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Brede Village Hall, Brede
Message Board
Elms Farm Bed and Breakfast Enquiry
We are making enquiries about a 3 nights stay, Bed and breakfast, from Friday 15th May 2026 depart 18th May. … more
Recreation Field
Hello Anna, Can you you tell me please where I can get the fixtures for the recreation field please. Best … more
Attractions and Activities
Bodiam Castle
Set in the heart of an historic landscape, with spiral staircases, battlements and a portcullis, 14th century Bodiam Castle is one of Britain’s most picturesque and romantic ancient monuments. Windows where arrows were once loosed, a tower that was once … more
Weald Table Tennis Club
We welcome all standards of player at the Weald Table Tennis Club, which meets at Benenden Village Hall on Thursday evenings from 7.00pm- 9.00pm and Sunday evenings from 6.30-8.30pm. We have 5 tables, and provide bats and balls, so whether … more
Peasmarsh Parish Church
The Church of St Peter & St Paul, Peasmarsh lies about a mile to the south of the village. It is sited on one of the only two areas in the parish to rise above 65 metres and commands fine … more
Accommodation
Flackley Ash Hotel, Restaurant & Spa
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
Oasthouse Loft
A wonderfully warm and cosy, romantic hideaway in an exquisite country location with 360-degree panoramic views. Tastefully furnished in a comfortable, subtle yet contemporary style the Oasthouse Loft offers spacious, quality rural accommodation. Enjoy nestling on ancient farmland pastures, in … more
Battenhurst Meadow B&B
Set in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Battenhurst Meadow Bed and Breakfast is a contemporary house with far reaching views across the High Weald of Sussex, with grounds of just under an acre and ample parking available for guests. … more
Restaurants
Flackley Ash Hotel, Restaurant & Spa
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
White Dog Inn
We are a traditional country inn set in the picturesque village of Ewhurst Green, with stunning views over bodiam castle and a warming log fire with local ales. All of our food is locally sourced proving you with the best … more
