Two Quick Walks near Rye

The beautiful and historic town of Rye is a magnet for visitors from the UK and overseas. However very few take the chance to break away from the town and explore some of the fantastic countryside scenery nearby. Below are a couple of short walks that will give the visitor a new perspective on the Sussex countryside.

Westfield Circular (2 miles approx)

Westfield is nestled in the countryside near Hastings. A patchwork of different habitats provide interest in this tranquil landscape. There are many wonderful vistas across fields and down valleys as you follow this route.

Park by the school in Westfield and head north to Cottage Lane. Here pick up the 1066 Country Walk path. This long distance path runs from the site of the Norman landing in Pevensey all the way to Rye. It closely follows the recorded route of the invading army of William the Conqueror.

Turn left where the footpath meets the road and follow the 1066 waymarks through fields with Forge Stream to your right. Forge Stream is home to many water plants and nearby hedgerows are home to voles and mice.

Leaving the stream behind head to the corner of the field boundary and turn right over the stile. Follow this muddy track until it becomes a lane, ignoring private drives to the left. Turn right onto the footpath at the end of the lane and follow this path back to the 1066 Country Walk. Here retrace your steps back into the village.

Salehurst Ramble (2.4 Miles)

This route passes by several features of the traditional Sussex countryside, namely hop fields and the iconic Oast Houses. It is also worth pausing to enjoy the magnificent views of the Rother Valley.

Park by the church in Salehurst. Follow the road around to the end of the lane and take the footpath. Keep to the left of the wall and ignore the private drive. Cross the River Rother and turn left towards Salehurst Abbey, which is the ruins of a Cistercian Abbey lost during the reformation. Follow the path onwards past the abbey and up towards the woodland. Here turn left to join a bridleway which follows the edge of the woods. Upon reaching the farm buildings follow the driveway around them, do not take the uphill track on the left. Continue to follow the driveway enjoying the views into the valley. At a junction amongst further buildings turn left onto the road. Follow this road until you meet the path over the River Rother and take this to return to Salehurst.
Next time you visit Rye be sure to pack your walking boots so you can discover how much the Sussex countryside has to offer.

This article was written by Tom Sangers on behalf of Flackley Ash East Sussex Hotel who provide accommodation, perfect for a Rye Holiday