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.

What’s new?

Rye Van & Rural Vehicle Servicing

– Electrical & Computer Fault Diagnostics – Local Area Breakdown & Non-Start – Welding & Fabrication – Tyres & Batteries … more

Listed in: Car Servicing

Message Board

Skateboard left at Recreation Ground

I have a skateboard recently left at Recreation Ground. If it’s yours give me a call and describe it 07860 … more

Pines Meadow

Hi, Does anyone know where the little house ‘Pines Meadow’ used to be in Beckley please? More of a cabin. … more

Attractions and Activities

Peasmarsh Parish Church

The Church of St Peter & St Paul, Peasmarsh lies about a mile to the south of the village. It is sited on one of the only two areas in the parish to rise above 65 metres and commands fine … more

The Colonel Stephens Railway Museum

Records the career of Holman Fred Stephens, light railway promoter, engineer and manager, his family, his railways and his successors

Lamb House

Lamb House was built in 1723 by James Lamb. Henry James leased the property and later purchased in 1899. It was here he wrote the Awkward Age, The Wings of the Dove, the Ambassadors and The Golden Bowl. In the … 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

Rye Windmill B&B

Rye’s white smock windmill is a grade II listed building and one of its most famous landmarks. Tucked away in one of England’s quaintest coastal towns, our welcoming Bed and Breakfast is ideally located with the High Street and the … more

Oasthouse Loft

A wonderfully warm and cosy, romantic hideaway in an exquisite country location with 360-degree panoramic views. Tastefully furnished in a comfortable, subtle yet contemporary style the Oasthouse Loft offers spacious, quality rural accommodation. Enjoy nestling on ancient farmland pastures, in … more

Restaurants

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.

Towns and villages near Beckley …

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