The Friends provided the seed funding for the first Writer in Residence project. This was led by the award-winning nature poet Jane Lovell who organised monthly meetings to walk the reserve and to write about nature. The pilot project was so successful that the writing group produced an anthology of poetry and artwork, New Ways of Looking, inspired by the reserve. The book is on sale for £15 at the Discovery Centre and has proven so popular that it is already on its second print run.
The Friends bought two new defibrillators for the reserve using funds from the 833 Lottery Club. One is kept in the Discovery Centre, the other is a mobile unit that travels out on volunteer work parties around the reserve.
We have been working hand in hand with the management team at the Discovery Centre to create a new focal point for local artists within the centre, which has so far raised over £4000 for the Reserve. The new Art Wall was generously donated by committee member and wildlife artist James Tomlinson. The wall has been carefully designed so it doesn’t affect the wood cladding of the centre but will provide a good and well-lit hanging space for artwork. The Art Wall features work from well-known professional artists and from keen and talented amateurs, providing an ever-changing display of exciting nature-based art inspired by the Reserve.
The Art Wall was refurbished in January 2024 ready for water colours by Kathleen Loughton-Mead and wildlife photography by Howard Kearley.
We hope you’ll drop in to see the exhibitions.
Exhibitors for the Art Wall have been booked in for the next 12 months, but you are welcome to apply to exhibit here. The criteria are that you are inspired by the reserve, or create artwork on, or about the reserve.
The Trustees of the Friends of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve and the 833 Administration Team decided to close the 833 Lottery Club, with July 13th 2024 as the last draw. The Lottery was set up at the end of 2019 to raise funds for the development and ongoing management of the Rye Harbour Discovery Centre. Since that time the building has been finished and its management and activities firmly established.
We thank all the Lottery members for their generous support over almost 5 years.
The Friends were left a substantial legacy by the Layton family, who knew and loved the nature reserve. Their interst in the environment and education led the Friends to explore the idea of a proper visitor centre with Sussex Wildlife Trust. The Friends provided the initial £1.5M contribution towards the cost of the Discovery Centre that opened in 2021.
The knowledgeable staff and volunteers on the Information Desk will help you make the most of your visit.
Enjoy hot and cold drinks with tasty snacks in the Lime Kiln Cafe.
Take in the stunning views of the nature reserve through the large, panoramic windows.
Discover more about the nature reserve from the informative wall displays.
Past Projects
