Why Winchelsea?
An Antient Town in the Confederation of the Cinque Ports. Seven centuries ago, Winchelsea was a town of several thousand people and a major Channel port, its ships the terror of the Narrow Seas. Today, Winchelsea sits quietly on its hill, gazing at the now-distant sea, but echoes of its colourful history still resonate from the ancient buildings and stone town gates whilst the magnificent church and traces of the ancient boundary ditches etched into the surrounding landscape, hint at its former eminence.
Strand Gate (image (c) Richard Comotto 2007)
The sense of tranquility Winchelsea enjoys, owes much to the surrounding landscape of the High Weald, it is a place of green valleys, wooded hills, open grazing marshes, coastal views and winding rivers. Exploring from the town as a walker or cyclist you can experience this diverse landscape firsthand where you can still see evidence of traditional farming techniques and the variety of local wildlife.
Brede Valley (image (c) Barry Yates 2007)
The Antient Town of Winchelsea is a wonderful hidden place to explore. So whether you are here to peer into the past, experience local colour and culture, enjoy the landscape, indulge on local food and drink, or just to relax, you’ll find Winchelsea the most idyllic place to be.
Activities in and around Winchelsea
Within the spectactular setting fo the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Winchelsea offers a treasure trove of activities. Please click on the options below to see what you can do:
Royal Military Canal (image (c) RMCP 2007)
Planning your stay in Winchelsea
Whether you come to Winchelsea for the day or stay for a longer visit, click on the links below to find all you need to know about where to stay, where to eat and drink and other activities on offer in the area.
Church of St Thomas the Martyr (image (c) Richard Comotto 2007)
Further Information
For more information visit www.winchelsea.net
For a copy of the Winchelsea visitor guide click here to download
For further information on the wider area including tourism publications visit:
www.1066country.com
www.highweald.org
www.visitrye.co.uk
Much of the visitor interpretation in Winchelsea has been produced locally as part of the Hidden Britain project here in the South East.
Click here to find out more about Hidden Britain.
Hidden Britain South East
