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
Pett Level Beach
Pett Level beach is characterised by its pebble shoreline, which is typical of most beaches along the coast. One of the notable features of Pett Level is its exposure of prehistoric submerged forest remains during low tides. Ancient tree stumps … more
Hastings Fishermen’s Museum
A former fishermen’s church by old net shops, now a museum on local fishing with ship models, nets, old photographs and the Lugger ‘Enterprise’, built in 1912. An adjacent net shop may also be viewed, together with 4 more fishing … more
Camber Sands
Camber Sands is situated to the east of the county. It is a popular sandy beach, with picturesque dunes and interesting wildlife. The village of Camber is very close to the beach. The dunes are formed from the sand that … 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.
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
Mermaid Cottage
Mermaid Cottage is a cosy, 18th century cottage situated on the historic cobbled Mermaid Street in Rye, perfect for a relaxing break. Situated at the top of Mermaid Street, you are centrally based in the Citadel for exploring Rye and … more
Restaurants
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
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
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