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.

What’s new?

Rye Town Hall
Rye Town Hall

Built in 1742, the elegant Georgian Town Hall in Rye is an ideal venue for your special day. A unique … more

Listed in: Town Halls

Message Board

Missing Cat

Geronimo is a 9 month old neutered male cat who has gone missing from the Goldhurst Green area of Icklesham. … more

Elm Tree Farm Information

Interested in your boot fair. Are there toilet facilities available?

Attractions and Activities

RNLI Hastings Lifeboat Station Visitor Centre & Shop

Hastings Lifeboat Station visitor centre and shop is open daily from 10am-5pm. Our knowledgeable guides provide a free (donations welcome!) tour of the station where you can learn about its’ history and the lifesaving work we do today. The shop … more

Rye Museum: Ypres Tower

The Rye Museum has two sites, the Ypres Tower (early 14th century) and the East Street site. The Tower has had many roles in its history from a fortification to protect the town, to a private dwelling, a prison and … more

Warrior Square Gardens

Warrior Square Gardens is a picturesque green space located in St Leonards-on-Sea. This serene and well-maintained garden offers a peaceful oasis where visitors can relax, enjoy nature, and take in the beautiful surroundings. The gardens are adorned with a variety … 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.

Grace Dieu

A very comfortable four bedroomed beach house with direct sea views and a sheltered sunny garden.

The Lookout

The hotel occupies what can be described as a prize winning location. Perched on the East Cliff, with panoramic views across the Estuary and the Romney Marshes, yet close to the High Street filled with quaint old shops, tea rooms, … more

Restaurants

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 Gallivant

The Gallivant Restaurant With Rooms is across the road from the dunes and the beautiful sandy beach beyond. Inspired by the coastal motels you might find in California. It is a a relaxing hideaway from the stresses and strains of … 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

Towns and villages near Icklesham …

Explore Icklesham ...