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Things to do around Winchelsea

Set among the green valleys, wooded hills, open grazing marshes and winding rivers of the High Weald, the ancient town of Winchelsea is a wonderfully hidden place. Its 13th century stone gates beckon you to explore the mysteries within.

At its centre is St Thomas the Martyr Church, its spectacular stained glass windows casting a watery glow on its interior. Designed by Scottish artist Douglas Strachan, the windows are arguably the best and most complete collection of his work and must be seen to be believed. In the churchyard lies comedian Spike Milligan’s grave, his headstone bearing the words ‘I told you I was ill’.

The Court Hall Museum contains displays and exhibits that illustrate the history of Winchelsea, including Old Winchelsea, ‘the drowned city’ that now lies somewhere under Rye Harbour. You’ll also find maps, models, pictures, seals, local pottery and items of daily life from the area.

The Winchelsea cellars, or undercrofts, are an important part of the town’s medieval history and 33 of them are accessible via regular tours. They lie mostly in the northern quadrant nearest to the river Brede, and their tops can be seen from ground level – though their true size and beauty must be appreciated from underneath.

Just a stone’s throw away is the wide and peaceful Winchelsea beach with its weathered wooden groynes and views towards Camber and Dungeness.

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Number of results: 5

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3 reviews
RSPCA Mallydams Wood

Address

Peter James Lane, Fairlight, HASTINGS, East Sussex, TN35 4AH

Telephone
0300 123 0723

fcanning@rspca.org.uk

HASTINGS

Mallydams Wood looks after thousands of wildlife casaulties each year therefore, because welfare of the animals is their priority, the general public is not allowed to tour the centre.However, supervised visits to support vocational courses or…

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3 reviews
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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
40 reviews
Winchelsea Court Hall Museum

Address

High Street, Winchelsea, E Sussex, TN36 4EU

Telephone
+44(0)1797 226642

museum@winchelsea.com

Winchelsea

A small local museum with exhibits on the ancient town of Winchelsea, the Cinque Ports and their history. Maps, coins, seals, pictures, weights and measures, local pottery, photographs and other memorabilia are all on display. Children must be…

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40 reviews
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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
879 reviews
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve

Address

Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, Rye, East Sussex, TN31 7TX

Telephone
07884 494 982

rhnr.office@eastsussex.gov.uk

Rye

Large coastal nature reserve with a vast array of wildlife. Network of footpaths leading to 5 birdwatching hides (3 wheelchair accessible). Information centre.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
879 reviews
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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
79 reviews
Camber Castle

Address

Rye Harbour Road, RYE, East Sussex, TN31 7TD

Telephone
+44 01797 227784

rhnr.office@eastsussex.gov.uk

RYE

Camber Castle was one link in the chain of forts built along the south coast by Henry VIII in 1544. It was abandoned soon after it was built and is a rare example of its kind.

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
79 reviews
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Fairlight Tower/St Andrew's Church

Address

Coastguard Lane, Fairlight, East Sussex, TN35 4AB

Telephone
+44(0)1424 812799

Fairlight

St Andrew’s Church’s majestic ‘Fairlight Tower’ is conveniently located by the picturesque Hastings Country Park next to the coach and car-park - the perfect place to visit with its Victorian Gothick architecture and spectacular 360degree views.…

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How to get here
Despite the feeling of seclusion, it's easy to get here by rail, sea or road.
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