Just north of Lewes in East Sussex, Barcombe Mills is a nature reserve. It might appear sleepy and idyllic but it’s been an important area for trade, transport and mills since Roman and Saxon times. These days, it is picturesque and perfect for a leisurely walk, and a little bit of time here, is time well spent.
Logistics
Barcombe Mills is just to the west of the A26. There is a large free car park. There is also a bus service from Lewes.
A little history
Barcombe Mills sits on the river Ouse and Andrew’s Stream, one of its tributaries. It is on a junction of three Roman roads and there was a Roman villa and bath house nearby. There was possibly a corn mill here as early as the Saxon period and Barcombe features in the Domesday Book too. In the centuries since, Barcombe Mills has seen corn mills, paper mills and oil mills and at one point the operations here were owned by the same business that ran Tide Mills at Newhaven. There was even a button factory here in the 20th century.
Walking at Barcombe Mills
From the car park, there is a 3 km circular walk. It takes you across the bridge at Andrew’s Stream and straight into the heart of the water complex.
Water tumbles down in various directions and you can still see the network of waterways. In the sunshine, the water lilies and the weeping willows against a blue sky have a touch of Monet about them.
You’ll find an an information board here and the first of five bug hotels. Head straight through and over the old toll bridge looking out for the list of tolls!
Pass a few houses and turn right along a single track and very sleepy lane. Just keep walking as the few houses fall away and the landscape opens up. It is flat, remote and very pretty and in the summer, water meadow grasses, reeds and daises sway gently in the breeze. It’s hard to imagine this place as a hive of industrial activity.
As the river starts to slip gently along beside you, look out for the bridge over it. You can walk on to The Anchor from here (it’s about .5 km from this bridge) for refreshments. Alternatively, take the bridge over the river and double back on yourself on the other side. As you near the start, you’ll pass a WWII pillbox, one of a number in the area.
Things to do nearby
The area is popular with wild swimmers and paddle boarders and you can hire boats from the nearby Anchor Inn. A drive of 4.5 kms will take you to Isfield where you’ll find the Lavender Line, a heritage railway.
You’re also on the Sussex Ouse Valley Way here, a 67 km trail from near Horsham to Seaford. Alternatively, when you have finished exploring Barcombe Mills, try:
