Discover Ringmer: Footpaths and Local History

Ringmer has several clearly defined highlights: an extensive, well-used network of public footpaths, the building phases of the parish church of St Mary the Virgin, and a community-run orchard. Other features include gliding lessons near Ringmer and Project Terrapin at Raystede. When choosing a hotel in Ringmer, these themes can suit different interests: outdoor activities, architectural history, garden care, or animal and species conservation. The following sections can help you match the character of the area to your planned stay.

Footpaths reaching into the Downland

Ringmer has an extensive network of very well-used public footpaths. For guests who factor walking routes into their choice of destination, this is a distinct highlight: the focus is on a whole network of paths rather than a single named destination. The network provides access to the open Downland in the neighbouring parishes of Lewes and Glynde. The walking area therefore extends beyond Ringmer into precisely these two parishes. If you take this wider area into account when planning, check local conditions before setting off. Those mainly looking to spend time outdoors can give the network more weight; those more interested in historic building features will find a different highlight in the parish church.

Building phases at St Mary the Virgin

Different building phases can be distinguished in the parish church of St Mary the Virgin. The chancel, the nave apart from the westernmost bay, and the south porch date from the 15th century; the north and south chapels date from the early 16th century. The chapels are therefore later than the other features mentioned. The 15th-century date for the nave explicitly does not apply to the westernmost bay. This breakdown makes the church a specific focus for local history: rather than a general date for the whole building, the emphasis is on particular features and their respective dates.

Community Orchard: varieties and community care

The Ringmer Community Orchard was established in December 2005. It is a member-run orchard with heritage varieties of apples, pears and plums, including rare Sussex varieties. The date adds to the garden's history; the variety of its fruit and its community-run nature give it a distinct character alongside the building history of the parish church. Membership is open to anyone who has time to help care for the orchard, and all experience levels are welcome. If you are considering getting involved, check the contact details before visiting. This lets you take the opportunity to participate into account without treating it as a general visitor offer.

Animal and species conservation at Raystede

Project Terrapin at Raystede is a conservation centre for freshwater turtles. This specific animal and species conservation focus complements the footpaths, church architecture and orchard.

Gliding near Ringmer

The East Sussex Gliding Club has been flying from Kitson’s Field near Ringmer since 1974 and offers gliding lessons there. For travellers interested in gliding, lessons provide a more specific point of interest than a general reference to outdoor activities. If you would like to include this in your plans, check participation options directly with the club. This keeps the local connection clear: the field mentioned is near Ringmer, and lessons are offered there.

Discover more destinations: Alfriston, Ticehurst, Polegate, Crowborough, Horam, Mayfield, Ninfield, Buxted

For the regional travel overview: East Sussex.