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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Oasthouse Loft
Oasthouse Loft

A wonderfully warm and cosy, romantic hideaway in an exquisite country location with 360-degree panoramic views. Tastefully furnished in a … more

Listed in: Holiday Cottages

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The Ellie Babies
The Ellie Babies

, 5:00pm – 7:00pm
The Queen's Head Inn, Rye

Next event

Parlez Vous Francais
Parlez Vous Francais

10am
Winchelsea Farm Kitchen, Winchelsea

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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

Winchelsea Town Well

The plaques read … “Town Well 1851” “All persons are strictly cautioned against throwing anything whatever down the town well as the police have orders to report immediately any act of nuisance so that the offenders may be prosecuted. Dated … more

Full Throttle Boat Charters

Now in its third year our popular 1 hour Seal Safari boat trip from Rye Harbour. The trip takes you 8 miles up the coast towards Hastings. When we arrive at Seal bay you have 15-20 mins floating amongst the … more

Rye Leisure Centre

Modern facilities, friendly staff and great value … all at Rye Leisure Centre! Situated just behind the railway station, parking is free to Centre users. Please collect a parking ticket from reception

Accommodation

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

Larkin House

Offering inner courtyard views, Larkin House is an accommodation set in Rye, 43 km from Leeds Castle and 45 km from Folkestone Central Railway Station. The property is around 46 km from Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park, 46 km … more

Beside the Sea Holidays

Beside the Sea Holidays offers top-notch Camber Sands beach houses in East Sussex, just three miles from the lovely town of Rye. Ideal for a coastal retreat, their cottages are fully equipped for a serene getaway, each boasting a distinct … more

Restaurants

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.

The Mermaid Inn

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

The Winchelsea Lodge

The Winchelsea Lodge offers a serene escape nestled in the historic 1066 countryside, ideal for guests looking to explore nearby Rye, Hastings, Battle, and Camber Sands. This traditional lodge combines a modern interior with stunning natural surroundings, making it a … more

Towns and villages near Winchelsea …

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