Winchelsea

Located on the Eastern side of 1066 Country is the charming and quaint little town of Winchelsea.

In 1287, a violent storm caused the final destruction of Old Winchelsea. The replacement town, that you see today, was founded in 1288 by King Edward I on the Hill of Iham. Over the years it has inspired many artists such as Turner and Millais.

Winchelsea is approximately two miles South West of Rye and seven miles North East of Hastings. It is set on a hill in the shape of a grid, with empty marshland all around; dispersed by the original layout of the planned town. Rye has a collection of medieval wine cellars; said to be the largest in the country. Throughout the summer months, the townsfolk often conduct tours of these medieval cellars, explaining how they were built and used.

For photographers and historians, you will find much interest in Winchelsea. The architecture of the church buildings, the town armoury, the medieval town gates, the Town Well and the Court Hall provide great opportunities to step back in time. The first floor of the Court Hall is now a museum to the relics of Winchelsea's past and is well worth a visit.

Winchelsea is served by a few small shops and eating places. So there are options for you, if you want to stop for a quick bite of lunch or a cup of tea. If you wish to have a main meal, there are also a couple of local Inns in the town, serving traditional pub food.

Winchelsea is said to be the smallest town in the country to have its own Mayor. It was also home to famous people such as the writers Thackeray and Joseph Conrad and the actress Ellen Terry. Comedian Spike Milligan, star of the Goon Show, lived near to Winchelsea and is buried in the cemetary at St Thomas's Church.

For a day trip out in 1066 Country, it's hard to beat Winchelsea for its refreshing, relaxing air and beautiful architecture.