The countryside around Rye is crisscrossed with footpaths, offering gentle strolls through meadows, riverbanks, and nature reserves, as well as longer hikes with big views.
Rye Centre to Camber Sands Beach
https://tinyurl.com/RyetoCamberCyclepath
A scenic flat route mostly on a path from Rye citadel to Camber Sands Beach
Church Sq to Rye Harbour nature reserve walking /cycling
https://tinyurl.com/Rye-RyeHarbourNatureReserve
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve – Wildlife, Walks & Big Sky Views
Just a short drive from One Church Square, Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is one of the best places to stretch your legs and soak up some nature. Run by the Sussex Wildlife Trust, it’s considered the jewel in the crown of their reserves.
It’s a true wildlife hotspot, with over 280 bird species recorded, including the striking Avocets, often seen nesting in the lagoons and mudflats. Flat, accessible trails wind through saltmarsh, shingle, and wetlands, leading out to the sea. It’s about a one-mile walk to the beach from the main car park, with huge skies and wide views all the way.
Start at the Discovery Centre, which has panoramic windows over the reserve, interactive exhibits, and a café serving cakes, coffee, and light lunches.
If you hire bikes locally in Rye Harbour, you can follow the trail along the seafront, through the reserve, and all the way to Pett Level – a brilliant coastal ride packed with birdlife, sea air, and wide-open views.
📍 Rye Harbour, TN31 7TX. 🌐 Visit Website
🕗 Opening hours: Reserve open daily year-round
Discovery Centre: 10:00am–4:00pm daily
Winchelsea Town Trail
Step into history with a self-guided walk through one of England’s best-preserved medieval towns. Explore ancient gates, St Thomas’ Church, and the remnants of a once-thriving port. The trail offers panoramic views over the Brede Valley and the sea, making it a must for history buffs and casual walkers alike.
📍 Start at Winchelsea Town Centre
🕓 Open year-round 📄 Visitor Map PDF. 🌐 winchelsea.com