Icklesham
Icklesham in East Sussex Village Guide
About Icklesham in East Sussex
Icklesham village is located approximately six miles east of Hastings on the A259, Hastings to Rye Road. The village has several public houses. The church is dedicated to All Saints and St Nicolas and dates back to the 12th century.
Icklesham stands on the ridge between the coast and river Brede, offering views to the hills at Fairlight to the south and the Brede valley on the other side. The name Icklesham (which was possibly derived from Anglo Saxon – Iclingas Ham the home of the Iclas family) was recorded in 772 as Icoleshamme, in a land charter signed by Offa, King of Mercia. The village was probably a prime target during the invasion by the Normans in 1066 as in earlier times it dominated the river Brede. This strategic importance led, some seven hundred years later to evacuation plans being drawn up in case of invasion by Napoleon.
There is an old smock windmill on Hogs Hill which has been restored and used as a recording studio by Sir Paul McCartney. The 1066 walk (which runs from Pevensey to Rye via Battle) goes through the village.
Attractions and Activities
St Michael’s Church
St Michael’s is mentioned in the Domesday Survey, and sits near the summit of the plateau in which much of the parish of Playden is found. The Friends of Playden Church is a registered charity dedicated to helping to maintain … more
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
The Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is approximately 1.4 miles south east of Rye, signposted off the A259. There is a free car park at Rye Harbour. There is a network of foot paths that allow the reserve to be visited … more
Rye Town Hall
Built in 1742, the elegant Georgian Town Hall in Rye is an ideal venue for your special day. A unique and historic setting in the heart of Rye, the Town Hall is within walking distance, over the cobbled streets, of … more
Accommodation
Manor Farm Oast
Built in 1860, Manor Farm Oast is situated in the middle of a working farmland and features a garden and free on-site parking.
Landgate Cottage
15th century cottage opposite the medieval Landgate arch. Refurbished with to modern standard, retaining period features. Landgate Cottage has a cosy woodfire, pretty courtyard and WIFI. Close to galleries, restaurants, National Trust properties and wonderful beaches.
Grace Dieu
A very comfortable four bedroomed beach house with direct sea views and a sheltered sunny garden.
Restaurants
Globe Inn Marsh
A traditional but modern country inn located in the heart of Rye, just a couple of miles from the coast. Specialises in using fresh and local produce to create good innovative home cooked food from Field Farm Sea and offer … more
Big Guys French Fries
We’re an independent small restaurant located steps from the centre of town. We’re proud to be the favourite for locals to meet friends for a beer or call for a fresh “big guy burger”. We serve juicy big burgers and … more
The Ship Inn
In the centre of the small, charming town of Rye, the Ship is a modern take on the traditional English inn – a cosy pub, rich in original character, with simple, comfortable en suite rooms above. Originally built in 1592, … more