Category: linear walk
Location: Battle
Distance: 15 miles (24.1km )
For a good taster, the section between the towns of Rye and Battle can be walked in one (longish) day and there are excellent rail links which give plenty of shorter options. The countryside is a beautiful mosaic of hills, woods and orchards, and the views over Rye Bay from Icklesham are spectacular. History abounds, particularly in the cobbled streets of Rye, the 13th century 'new town' of Winchelsea and Battle, where are many atrractions including the Abbey and Battlefield site.
Location: Battle Abbey Gatehouse
End Location: Rye, Winchelsea Road
Address:
Battle
Grid Reference: TQ748158(OS Map)
End Grid Reference: TQ917202(OS Map)
OS Map:Explorer 125 and 124, Landranger 199
Distance: 15 miles
Time: 8 hours
Terrain: Hilly, fairly strenuous walking with many stiles. Muddy in places in winter.
Directions/Transport: From the railway station follow signs towards the Abbey. The route to Rye turns right down Marley Lane (before reaching the Abbey Gateway). The path bears right off the road a quarter of a mile beyond the level crossing. Continue to follow the way marking discs to Rye. The walk finishes at Rye on the Winchelsea Road at the bridge over the River Tillingham.
Bus Information: Variety of services to Hastings, Tenterden and elsewhere. The 711 (hourly off peak, two hourly on Sundays) links Rye, Winchelsea, Icklesham and Hastings.
Train Information: Doleham and Winchelsea on the Rye-Hastings line. Hourly off peak service (two hourly on Sundays in winter).
Waymarking: 1066 Country Walk discs
Services: Refreshments, services and toilets are available at all the main towns and villages along the route.