Where to see orchids in Sussex
There are about 56 species of orchid native to the UK and 23 of those can be found across Sussex Wildlife Trust’s nature reserves. These are some of the best reserves to visit in search of beautiful and elusive wild...
Discover our wildlife in a mosaic of coastal habitats
You can discover our amazing wildlife all day, every day of the year, along many miles of path, with five birdwatching hides accessible to wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
Explore the changing coastline and military history, or simply enjoy a walk beside the sea.
Opening Times
| Location | Opening Hours | Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Discovery Centre | 9.30am – 4.30pm (Café closes at 4.15pm) The Discovery Centre will remain CLOSED on Wednesday 17th June |
Free Admission* |
| Nature Reserve | Open all hours | Free Admission* |
| Car Parking** | 6:30am – 9:00pm | Donations Only |
*Sussex Wildlife Trust offers free admission to everyone because of generous support from members and supporters.
** The car park is run by Icklesham Parish Council
It's nesting season - dogs on short leads
Ringed Plovers and other ground nesting birds are currently breeding on the reserve. Help these vulnerable species by keeping dogs on a short lead in areas marked on the map.
Latest News
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve Sightings May 2026
Sussex Wildlife Trust volunteer David Bentley sums up wildlife sightings at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve in May 2026
Celebrating 5 years since the Discovery Centre opened
Celebrating five years since the Discovery Centre opened its doors.
10,000 call for ban on bio-beads
Sussex Wildlife Trust joined Helena Dollimore MP at 10 Downing Street today to deliver a petition calling on water companies to stop using bio-beads in wastewater treatment
Forthcoming Events
Walk with a Ranger at Rye Harbour - Birds, Bees and Butterflies (420337035)
18 June 2026
10:00
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Corporate Wild Work Day: Beach Clean and Survey Day at Rye Harbour
19 June 2026
13:00
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Summer Solstice Seabird & Shingle Wildflower Safari, Rye Harbour(420337035)
19 June 2026
18:00
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Guide in a Hide with the Friends of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve (20.06.26)
20 June 2026
10:00
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Spring Pie and Mash Evening with a View at Rye Harbour (420337035)
20 June 2026
17:30
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Corporate Wild Work Day: Beach Clean and Survey Day at Rye Harbour
24 June 2026
13:00
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Corporate Wild Work Day: Beach Clean and Survey Day at Rye Harbour
25 June 2026
13:00
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Corporate Wild Work Day: Sustainability Day at Rye Harbour Discovery Centre
26 June 2026
10:00
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Castle Water Wildlife Walk at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve (420337035)
30 June 2026
14:30
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Corporate Wild Work Day: Beach Clean and Survey Day at Rye Harbour
02 July 2026
13:00
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