Fairlight
Fairlight in East Sussex Village Guide
About Fairlight in East Sussex
An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Fairlight is situated five miles from the ancient towns of Rye, Hastings and Battle. It has the area known as “The Firehills” which forms part of Hastings Country Park with 500 acres of cliff walks, unspoiled wooded countryside and magnificent coastal views. Here there is free parking for walkers and bird watchers, with a tearoom and picnic area.
The parish church, built in 1845, has an 82 ft tower which is open to visitors during the summer.
The village is mentioned in records of 1220 as Farlegh. William the Conquerer gave Fairlight Manor, which is now Stonelynk Farm, to a French Countess.
In the days of smuggling, contraband goods were landed at Fairlight and brought inland by a tunnel. Stream House was used by smugglers which, in those days, was three cottages known as Stream Houses.
At the turn of the century a local gun battery practised firing at Fairlight which probably gave rise to the name “The Firehills” and nearby Battery Hill.
Attractions and Activities
Winchelsea Beach
Winchelsea Beach is a pebble beach located between Camber and Pett Level. With views over Rye Bay, Dungeness can be clearly seen to the east and Fairlight cliffs to the west.
Shipwreck Museum
Maritime museum with 3000 years of historic treasures from local shipwrecks. Audiovisual show ‘A Shipwreck Adventure’, push button videos, talks with slides on shipwreck and coastal history topics.
Pett Level Beach
Pett Level beach is characterised by its pebble shoreline, which is typical of most beaches along the coast. One of the notable features of Pett Level is its exposure of prehistoric submerged forest remains during low tides. Ancient tree stumps … more
Accommodation
Quarter House
Enjoy historic & romantic beamed surroundings in the heart of the Medieval walled Citadel of Rye. This unusual converted Grade II listed two-storey apartment retains original features including open log fire, original wooden beams and floors dating back to the … more
Grace Dieu
A very comfortable four bedroomed beach house with direct sea views and a sheltered sunny garden.
The Gallivant
The Gallivant Restaurant With Rooms is across the road from the dunes and the beautiful sandy beach beyond. Inspired by the coastal motels you might find in California. It is a a relaxing hideaway from the stresses and strains of … more
Restaurants
The Mermaid Inn
One of England’s oldest and loveliest inns, with Norman cellars dating from 1156, the Mermaid, rebuilt in 1420, offers tradition and charm in abundance. A jewel in the crown of Rye, the inn has a wide range of accommodation including … more
Big Guys French Fries
We’re an independent small restaurant located steps from the centre of town. We’re proud to be the favourite for locals to meet friends for a beer or call for a fresh “big guy burger”. We serve juicy big burgers and … more
Webbe’s at the Fish Café
Welcome to Webbe’s in Rye. A vibrant lively restaurant atmosphere with open plan kitchen area where you can view your meal in its creation, for serious diners and families alike. This upbeat eatery will meet your every need when you … more