Ewhurst Green brings together historic architecture, countryside and walking routes. St James the Great, several buildings with different histories and views across the Rother Valley give the village clear points of interest for a trip. If you would like to include culture and activity in your getaway, you can consider the local architectural history and walking routes separately—without having to follow a set itinerary.
Church architecture and historic houses
The Grade I listed church of St James the Great has two medieval phases in its building history: the south 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. The church is in the High Weald AONB and on the Kent and Sussex Border Path. Here, a prominent church building and a named walking route offer distinct aspects to consider when planning a trip.
Court Lodge tells a different architectural story. The building is the surviving remnant of a larger house originally called Ewhurst Place. Preserved 18th-century features include painted brickwork, sash windows, Venetian shutters and a small porch with Doric columns. These details give the house its own architectural character, distinct from the church’s medieval building phases.
The Old School House is also listed, at Grade II; its exterior dates from the 18th century. The Old Chapel and Chapel Cottage were initially a single house from the same period, later converted into a chapel and eventually turned back into two homes. Today, the two buildings are residences, not a public chapel. Their history adds the story of a house changing between different uses to the picture of Ewhurst Green.
Views and walking routes
Ewhurst Green offers impressive views across the Rother Valley, with Bodiam Castle visible to the north. The Sussex Border Path runs for a further 1.5 miles from Bodiam Castle, following the River Rother uphill to Ewhurst Green. A walk starting in the village has Bodiam Castle as its highlight and crosses the Kent & East Sussex Railway. St James the Great is also on the Kent and Sussex Border Path.
Parking for the walk is available near the church in Ewhurst Green. Check local parking conditions before setting off. St James the Great is usually open daily from around 9:30 am to 4:30 pm; check opening hours before your visit. This information can help you plan if you would like to combine a visit to the church with a walk.
Another possible activity
The Lighthouse Bakery School in Ewhurst Green was designed for a wide range of participants, from professional bakers to people with no prior experience. Family days are also planned, and can be tailored to children. If you would like to include this activity in your travel plans, check in advance for current course and family-day dates, as arrangements may change.
Discover more destinations: East Dean, Earnley, Ringmer, Catsfield, Crowborough, Cross in Hand, Rye, Mountfield
Return to the main travel guide: East Sussex.
