Rye Harbour Nature Reserve

Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is one of the largest and most important wildlife sites in England, set in a mosaic of coastal and wetland habitats beside the sea at Rye Harbour in East Sussex. Managed by Sussex Wildlife Trust, the reserve is free to visit all year round and is home to more than 4,355 species of plants and animals, including 300 that are rare or endangered.

Families can explore many miles of paths through saltmarsh, shingle and grassland, follow one of ten activity trails, and spot wildlife from five birdwatching hides that are all accessible to wheelchairs and mobility scooters. The changing coastline and historic military buildings, including nearby Camber Castle, add plenty of interest for older children.

Start your visit at the Rye Harbour Discovery Centre, open daily, with the Lime Kiln Cafe serving hot and cold food and drinks, a gift shop with children's toys and wildlife books, an interactive exhibition space, and a classroom with microscopes, binoculars and telescopes for children to use. Toilets include baby-changing and wheelchair-accessible facilities, and mobility scooters can be booked in advance for visitors with limited mobility.

The reserve runs family events throughout the year including Nature Tots, Wildlife Watch clubs and Wild Beach Child sessions. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on short leads, with only assistance dogs allowed inside the classroom and event areas. The car park at the entrance is donations only, run by Icklesham Parish Council.