Shifting sands

A harbour two miles inland. A town that fell into the sea. Sheep that like to live by the coast. Smugglers sneaking across tidal marshes. Pilotless planes appearing from across the water. A coastal walk where you only glimpse the sea from afar. Some surprising stories await you on this walk around the historic towns of Rye and Winchelsea in East Sussex.

Discover how coastal processes – tides, waves and currents – have created a distinct physical landscape. Find out how people have made a living from an ever-changing environment subject to the whims of the sea. And explore how the coastal position has influenced military fortifications and defences.

This walk is a fascinating story of human resilience, adaptation and survival in response to the forces of nature.

Walk Info

Distance:

6 ½ miles

Level:

A mostly flat route with some steep hills in Rye and Winchelsea

Suitable for:

Dogs should be kept on a lead in towns, on roads and on grazing land

Region:

South East England

Setting:

Seaside

Landscape:

Historic landscapes Shaping the landscape Working landscapes

Start:

Rye railway station

Finish:

Rye old harbour

Getting there:

Located on A259 between Folkestone and Hastings; accessible from M20

Nearest station Rye; two trains per hour

Located on National Cycle Network Route 2