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 Leonards Gardens
St Leonards Gardens is a beautiful public park located in St Leonards-on-Sea. It is a picturesque and well-maintained green space that offers a tranquil retreat for both locals and visitors. The gardens span approximately 4.5 acres and is situated near … more
1066 Country Walk
Enjoy the exhilarating 1066 Country Walk from or to Rye. The whole walk to Pevensey takes four days, allowing time to visit the places of interest on the way, or you can go from Rye to Battle or vice versa … more
Rye Harbour Beach
The beach at Rye Harbour is a picturesque and unspoiled coastal stretch situated at the mouth of the river Rother at Rye Harbour along to Winchelsea Beach to the west. Generally a pebble beach (although there are sandy areas to … 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.
Ockman Cottage
Ockman Cottage is a boutique holiday cottage located in a quiet twitten situated in the heart of the citadel of Rye. An ideal base for exploring the towns cobbled streets, antiques, restaurants, inns,independent boutiques and galleries together with the surrounding … more
Grace Dieu
A very comfortable four bedroomed beach house with direct sea views and a sheltered sunny garden.
Restaurants
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
River Haven Hotel
A Warm welcome awaits you at the River Haven Hotel & Restaurant. This family run comfortable Hotel of 22 en-suite rooms in the Ancient town of Rye is situated on the Strand Quay over looking the River Tillingham. Our conservatory … 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 and charm in abundance. A jewel in the crown of Rye, the inn has a wide range of accommodation including … more