The Area

The Old School is located in a beautiful part of East Sussex, deep in the heart of 1066 country.  Icklesham village is located approximately six miles east of Hastings on the A259, Hastings to Rye Road.  Icklesham stands on the ridge between the coast and river Brede, offering views to the hills at Fairlight to the south and the Brede valley on the other side.

The village has 2 pubs and our favourite is the Queen’s Head, a short walk from the house.  The church is dedicated to All Saints and St Nicolas and dates back to the 12th century and the 1066 walk (which runs from Pevensey to Rye via Battle) goes through the village.

From hiking, cycling, kite-surfing, shopping, eating great food, visiting beautiful beaches, historic castles, art galleries or public gardens, there is lots to do for all ages in the area.

At the time of your booking, you will be given a Welcome Pack with information on the area to include activities, great local pubs and restaurants, shopping and places to visit.  You may want to browse these websites to give you an idea of the options;  Visit 1066 CountryVisit Rye  and  Sussex Tourism

Our recommended highlights are:-

  • Visit the historic town of Rye– walk the lanes, browse the shops, climb the Church Tower for amazing views over Romney Marshes, have a cream tea in the numerous tea rooms or a pint at the Mermaid Inn.
  • Go for a walk or bike ride – you will be spoilt for choice for which route to take – the Brede Valley, Rye Nature Reserve etc.
  • Visit Camber Beach – an award-winning beach with rolling sand-dunes – one of the only sandy beaches in the South East.  Activities available nearby at Rye Water Sports, The Kite Surf Center and Full Throttle Boat Charters. Kids love the Aquapark at Action Water Sports in Romney Marsh.
  • Treat yourself to a hair or beauty treatment at The Rye Retreat.
  • Take the kids to see the animals at the Rare Breeds Farm near Ashford.
  • Visit a winery and sample the local wines and ciders – Chapel Downs Winery in Tenterden.

Where to Eat & Drink

There are so many wonderful restaurants in the area, including the multitude of options in Rye.  We will provide you with a list of our favourites when you book with us – a few are listed below!

For The Kids

Where to Visit

Where to Shop

  • Supermarkets – Jempson in Rye, Co-op in Winchelsea Beach and all major supermarkets can be found in Hastings & Bexhill.
  • Rye Bay Fish – New Road, Rye
  • Salt’s Farm Shop, East Guldeford