Historic towns and buildings

If you are interested in history and architecture, or you are visiting East Sussex and want to see some of our rich heritage, take a trip to the east of the county. Many of our historic towns are here, within a short distance of each other. The four we have chosen form a circle – so the order we have given is just a suggestion.

Rye

Rye was named an ‘Antient Town’ (one of two) by Henry III in the 13th century. It has delightful cobbled streets and medieval, Tudor and Georgian buildings. Visitor attractions include the heritage centre and the castle, as well as plenty of antique shops.

• Where is it? Approximately 10 miles north east of Hastings, on the eastern edge of the county.
• How do I get there? The main roads into Rye are the A259, which runs between Hastings and Ashford, and the A268, which comes in from the north west.
• Nearest train station: Rye – on the edge of the town.
• More information: Rye town website

Winchelsea

Having been to Rye, it is worth going a couple of miles down the road to Winchelsea. The other ‘Antient Town’, it is also the smallest town in the country to have its own mayor. It is full of pretty Georgian buildings and has a peaceful beach which is sandy at low tide.

• Where is it? Approximately two miles to the south west of Rye, on the A259.
• How do I get there? Leave Rye on the A259 and head towards Hastings.
• Nearest train station: Winchelsea – approximately half a mile away.
• More information: Winchelsea town website

Battle

Named after the site of the Battle of Hastings, the town of Battle is an attractive market town with medieval and Georgian buildings. Visit the ruins of the Abbey, built by William the Conqueror to commemorate his victory in 1066, and take an interactive audio tour to help you re-create the battle where King Harold lost his life. The Abbey is open every day (except at Christmas), from 10am.

• Where is it? Approximately four miles to the north west of Hastings.
• How do I get there? Head out of Hastings on the A2100.
• Nearest train station: Battle – approximately half a mile from the centre.
• Cost: There is an entry fee for the Abbey.
• More information: English Heritage website

Bodiam Castle

Bodiam is a late medieval moated castle and one of Britain’s most well-known. Its exterior is almost complete and some of the interior is also in tact. It is open 10.30am to 6pm most of the year – please check the National Trust website for full details (see link below).

• Where is it? Approximately three miles east of Hurst Green (off the A21) and three miles south of Hawkhurst (off the A268).
• How do I get there? From Battle, head north towards Robertsbridge on the A21 and turn right after about two miles, crossing the B2244, towards Bodiam.
• Nearest train station: Robertsbridge – approximately five miles away.
• Cost: There is an entry fee for the Castle.
• More information: National Trust website