Windmill Hill Windmill

You'll spot it long before you reach it - that distinctive white tower standing alone on the South Sussex downs, visible from miles across the Pevensey levels. Windmill Hill Windmill is one of those rare survivors that actually works, a proper post mill that's been grinding grain on and off since the 18th century. The tower itself isn't enormous, but there's something commanding about it set against open countryside, and on a clear day the views back towards the coast are worth the journey alone.

Inside, if access is available, you can see the actual machinery - the sort of thing that makes engineering types quite happy for a good hour. For families with younger children it's a bit of a mixed bag: the external views are fine, the walk up is pleasant enough, but unless there's a milling demonstration on, you're looking at twenty minutes maximum before someone asks if you can go to the ice cream van instead.

Walkers will get the most from it as part of a longer route across the downs rather than as a standalone stop. The surrounding area is proper walking country, and it makes a decent waypoint between Pevensey and the quieter villages inland. Nearby Fontmills Farm Campsite and Beech Estate Campsite are both well-reviewed bases if you're planning a few days exploring the area - they're close enough that you could visit in the afternoon without it being a major expedition from either site.

Check locally for opening times and whether there's an entry fee - details are thin on the ground, which is typical for these smaller landmarks. Worth a detour if you're already in the Pevensey area, but don't plan a whole day around it.