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
Harbour Cycles
We are based in Rye Harbour opposite the Lifeboat station, and next to Rye Harbour nature reserve. Take a bicycle and ride through the 1150 acres of the nature reserve via the designated trails, see map. or stay on the … 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
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 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
The Salty Shepherd
Combining the peace and quiet of a rural farm setting in the beautiful East Sussex countryside with Camber Sands, one of the most fabulous beaches on the South Coast, our shepherds hut offers you a genuinely unique luxury glamping experience. … more
Restaurants
Flackley Ash Hotel, Restaurant & Spa
Located in the Sussex countryside 4 miles from the historic town of Rye, Flackley Ash is a delightful Grade II listed Georgian country house with an award-winning restaurant, a bar and spa facilities. The hotel’s spa features various treatment rooms. … 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
Haydens Coffee Shop
Fair trade and organic tea, coffee and hot chocolate. Freshly prepared breakfasts, lunches and cakes served in a warm friendly atmosphere every day. Fully licensed.