Ewhurst Green: History, Views and Trails

Anyone wishing to combine historic architecture, scenic views and walking trails in Ewhurst Green will find several different reasons to stay here. St James the Great, preserved buildings from various centuries and the Sussex Border Path along the River Rother give the village a varied character. There are also views across the Rother Valley and towards Bodiam Castle to the north.

Historic Buildings in Ewhurst Green

One of the village’s historic landmarks is St James the Great. The listed place of worship is Grade I listed. Its southern arcade and the base of the tower date from the 12th century, while most of the rest of the building dates from the 14th century. Visitors interested in medieval architecture and historic churches can specifically include this building in their day’s itinerary.

Other buildings also tell the story of the village’s development. Court Lodge is the surviving part of a larger house that was originally called Ewhurst Place. Preserved details include 18th-century painted-brick elements, sash windows, Venetian shutters and a small porch with Doric columns. The Old School House is a Grade II listed building; its exterior dates from the 18th century.

The Old Chapel and Chapel Cottage have a particularly interesting architectural history. Originally, they were a single 18th-century house, which was then converted into a chapel and later remodelled into two homes. Such varied building histories also make Ewhurst Green interesting for visitors who pay attention to details rather than focusing on a single attraction during a walk.

Views and Trails Through the Countryside

St James the Great is located in the High Weald AONB and on the Kent and Sussex border path. Ewhurst Green offers impressive views across the Rother Valley, as well as nearby views of Bodiam Castle to the north. Parking is available near the church in Ewhurst Green for the walk described.

Several walking experiences can be combined with a visit to the village without presenting them as one unified circular route. From Bodiam Castle, the Sussex Border Path continues for another 1.5 miles along the River Rother and uphill to Ewhurst Green. Another described walk begins in Ewhurst Green, has Bodiam Castle as its highlight and crosses the Kent & East Sussex Railway. You can therefore choose between a stay focused on architectural history and a day with a stronger emphasis on the countryside and the route itself.

St James the Great is normally open daily from approximately 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. If you plan to visit the church, take these approximate times into account when organising your day.

Choose Accommodation to Suit Your Travel Plans

When looking for a holiday apartment or holiday cottage in Ewhurst Green, it helps to decide in advance what you would like to focus on. Those wishing to explore historic details can make the church and the buildings described above the centrepiece of their visit. Those who prefer spending time outdoors can focus on the views, the Kent and Sussex border path and the walking opportunities towards Bodiam Castle. The Lighthouse Bakery School was designed as a baking school for a broad range of participants, from professional bakers to complete beginners. Family days are available there and can be tailored to children.

For further travel planning, you can also look at the following places: Staplecross, Rodmell, Peasmarsh, Cross in Hand, Newhaven, Groombridge, West Hoathly and Beckley.

For the higher-level travel overview: East Sussex.