Rye Nature Reserve & Camber Sands (East Sussex)

Bordering Kent are the historic towns of Rye, Battle and Hastings (where smugglers used to ply their trade) to Edwardian resorts like Bexhill-on-Sea, a major city and inland weald towns. Hastings is home to one of England’s few remaining funicular railways.

Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is near Camber Sands, and home to over 4000 species of wildlife, including 300 rare species. The reserve features a moving shingle coastland and a variety of habitats including salt marshes, shingle ridges and woodlands.

If out walking, always follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe.  If at the coast, read about how to keep dogs safe by the seaside. 

Never walk on sand dunes, to protect nesting birds, seal pups and other wildlife. Also keep dogs away, especially in breeding season. 

The nearby town of Rye is very hilly, with winding cobbled lanes, crooked Tudor houses and centuries-old inns. Mermaid Street is lined with sloping cottages, and home to many independent shops.

Nearby is the village of Winchelsea, where comedian Spike Milligan is buried. He has a Celtic inscription on his grave, after being refused his request for it to read ‘I told I was ill!’ Often classed as one of the funniest ever men, he fought a huge battle with depression, and often spoke on men’s mental health.

Also near Rye is Peasmarsh, a tiny village noted for being home to one of England’s few independent supermarkets. It’s not a ‘green grocery’ but does keep money within the community, and also runs several bakeries and cafes throughout the region.