Beckley
Beckley in East Sussex Village Guide
About Beckley in East Sussex
Nestled in the rolling East Sussex countryside is the genteel village of Beckley.
Beckley has an incredibly rich historical tapestry. A central part of the Wealden/East Sussex iron industry, Beckley manufactured a range of iron-based goods including guns and cannons for almost 200 years, with production starting in 1578 and grinding to a halt in 1770.
Beckley also has a small claim to fame; the etymological origination for a type of fruit. Maria Ann Sherwood of neighbouring Peasmarsh, East Sussex, married Thomas Smith of Beckley in 1818. After immigrating to New South Wales in Australia in 1838, the couple was particularly adept at growing a certain type of seedling apple; what we come to know today as the “Granny Smith” variety.
Similar to much of rural East Sussex, Beckley’s church (All Saints) is situated away from the main village; possibly down to relocation following the Black Death outbreak in the 14th century. The church itself is a temporal jumble, with a spire dating from the 11th century, a stunning 15th century stain glass window in the east of the building (Great East Window) and contains furnishings which are understood to be more than 800 years old.
Beckley has several cozy B&B’s as well as the popular Rose & Crown pub to unwind in. Beckley is a fantastic choice for a fact-finding journey amongst the stunning East Sussex countryside.
Attractions and Activities
Rye Water Sports
We offer lessons in Windsurfing, Sailing, Kitesurfing and Paddleboarding for children and adults, and during the Summer holidays Children’s Activity Days. It’s so easy to learn watersports with modern light equipment on our safe inland lake. We are a Royal … more
Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin
For almost 900 years the Parish Church of Rye, dedicated to St Mary the Virgin, has dominated the hill on which the old town stands. It has stood through good times and bad. In 1377 when the town was looted … more
Rye Heritage Centre
The perfect way to discover Rye. Rye Heritage Centre provides an ideal introduction to the town with the Story of Rye sound and light show featuring the famous Rye Town Model. Historic Guided Walking Tours are available to book and … more
Accommodation
Jeake’s House
Indulge in the unique atmosphere of Jeake’s House Hotel. Standing on one of the most beautiful cobbled streets of Rye, it has the added bonus of private car parking nearby. We are a 5 star award winning establishment in the … more
Willow Tree House
Willow Tree House is a six bedroomed house a stones throw from the centre of Rye. Set over three floors, this Grade 2 listed home sleeps 12 people. Four bedrooms are ensuite with two bedrooms on the top floor, the … more
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
Restaurants
The Mermaid Inn
One of England’s oldest and loveliest inns, with Norman cellars dating from 1156, the Mermaid, rebuilt in 1420, offers tradition and charm in abundance. A jewel in the crown of Rye, the inn has a wide range of accommodation including … 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
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.