Winchelsea
Winchelsea in East Sussex Town Guide
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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Lester Magoogan
Lester’s World of fabulous black and white art depicting his view of the world around him. By the way, Lester … more
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Attractions and Activities
St Mary's Church Tower
Climb the Church Tower for amazing views of Rye and the surrounding countryside! View the mechanism of the oldest working … more
Church of the Holy Spirit
In the churchyard stands the memorial to the men of Rye Harbour who died when the Mary Stanford lifeboat sank … more
Rye Town Council
The Town Hall, which was built in 1741, was designed by Andrew Jelfe. The building is surmounted by a cupola, … more
Accommodation
Knelle Dower
AA 5* rated luxury studio B&B offering blissful seclusion, sprinkled with luxury throughout. A delicious breakfast is served in our … more
Willow Tree House
Willow Tree House has been completely and sympathetically refurbished. Externally, the house is as it was some 290 years ago, … more
Jeake's House
Indulge in the unique atmosphere of Jeake’s House Hotel. Standing on one of the most beautiful cobbled streets of Rye, … more
Restaurants
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 … more
The Gallivant
The Gallivant Restaurant With Rooms is across the road from the dunes and the beautiful sandy beach beyond. Inspired by … more
The Mermaid Inn
One of England’s oldest and loveliest inns, with Norman cellars dating from 1156, the Mermaid, rebuilt in 1420, offers tradition … more