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
Church of the Holy Spirit
In the churchyard stands the memorial to the men of Rye Harbour who died when the Mary Stanford lifeboat sank in 1928. Services at Rye Harbour Church are usually on the 3rd Sunday of the month at 5pm for Evening … more
Camber Castle
Camber Castle lies between Rye and Winchelsea, and was originally located on a shingle spit which protected the approach to these towns.
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
Accommodation
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
The Artist’s Cottage
The Artist’s Cottage is a beautiful Grade II listed building built in 1483. Located in the heart of Rye’s historic citadel area, this newly renovated cottage is ideally situated for exploring the town and accessing the surrounding coast and countryside. … more
Restaurants
River Haven Hotel
A Warm welcome awaits you at the River Haven Hotel & Restaurant. This family run comfortable Hotel of 22 en-suite rooms in the Ancient town of Rye is situated on the Strand Quay over looking the River Tillingham. Our conservatory … more
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