Living in Robertsbridge

Life in Robertsbridge is defined by its strong sense of community and active local life. Many residents participate in village societies, such as the Robertsbridge Arts Partnership, gardening clubs, and the cricket or football teams. The village hall is a focal point for events, from farmers' markets and craft fairs to historical talks and charity fundraisers.

Robertsbridge holds several annual events, including the Robertsbridge Bonfire Night celebration and summer fetes, which bring together nearby villages and fill the calendar with family-friendly options. The local shops and small businesses create a welcoming and personal shopping environment.

Positioned within the High Weald AONB, the area is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities, whether that’s riverside walks along the River Rother, cycling, or exploring nearby woodlands and nature reserves.

The overall perception of safety in Robertsbridge is positive, and the village is widely viewed as a comfortable and secure place to live. Crime rates in Robertsbridge are generally lower than in urban areas, with most reported incidents being minor and non-violent in nature.

The Rother district benefits from active community policing, and neighbourhood watch schemes remain popular throughout the village, fostering a sense of security and cooperation among residents. Local initiatives often focus on rural crime prevention and safeguarding local assets, particularly given the agricultural and historic nature of the area.

Although no community is entirely free from crime, many choose Robertsbridge for its reputation as a safe rural village, supported by an engaged local community and visible policing presence.

Parking in Robertsbridge is generally manageable, especially compared to larger towns. On-street parking is available through much of the village, including near the High Street and train station. Some parts of the historic centre may have more limited spaces, reflecting the village's medieval origins and narrow roads.

Residents may need a permit for some streets, particularly during busy periods, but parking seldom poses significant difficulties for locals. The village is conveniently located just off the A21, giving drivers direct access north to London and south to Hastings.

Robertsbridge’s road connections are a real asset for commuters and those exploring the region. The M25 is about 35 minutes away, connecting drivers to a wider motorway network.

Nearby towns and cities:

• Hastings – approx. 30 minutes by A21 (14 miles)
• Battle – approx. 15 minutes by B2244 (7 miles)
• Tunbridge Wells – approx. 30 minutes by A21 (19 miles)
• London – approx. 1 hour 30 minutes via A21 and M25 (60 miles)

Congestion is minimal in the village itself, though the A21 can become busy during peak holiday periods or rush hour commutes.

Robertsbridge offers a traditional English village dining scene, focused on quality pubs, independent tearooms, and local eateries. The George Inn is renowned for its historic interior and serves both classic ales and modern British fare. The Ostrich Hotel and New Spice Indian Restaurant also attract locals and visitors alike, with friendly service and a varied menu.

Cafés provide coffee, cakes, and light lunches during the day, creating a sociable hub for residents and walkers alike. For nightlife, Robertsbridge has a relaxed social scene rather than a vibrant nightlife presence. A handful of community events, quiz nights at pubs, and seasonal festivals add to the evening options without requiring late-night venues or clubs.

The wider region opens up additional options, with nearby Battle and Hastings offering a broader array of restaurants and bars, as well as theatres, cinemas, and live music venues.

School quality: Families benefit from well-rated local schools, with Salehurst Church of England Primary School and Robertsbridge Community College offering quality education close to home.

Parks and green space: The village is surrounded by green fields, woodlands and the River Rother, providing ample space for family outings, picnics and walks. There are also equipped play areas for younger children.

Childcare: Several registered childminders and nearby nurseries serve local families, while after-school clubs and youth groups provide additional support.

Safety: Robertsbridge is viewed as a safe and supportive community, with active neighborhood watch schemes and strong social cohesion.

Family activities: Seasonal village events, local sports clubs, and the close proximity of cultural and historical sites give families plenty of leisure options.

Robertsbridge is a welcoming place for pets, particularly dogs. There are extensive walking opportunities with public footpaths crossing the surrounding countryside and along the River Rother. The High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty encourages regular outdoor activity for both residents and their pets.

There are several veterinary practices within a short drive, as well as a selection of local pet shops in nearby towns. Many local cafés and pubs are dog-friendly, and the strong community ethos means pets are a common sight in the village centre and green spaces.

In terms of housing, pet-friendly rental and ownership options are relatively easy to come by, as the rural setting appeals to those who value outdoor space for animals.

Robertsbridge offers excellent transport links for a rural village, making it an appealing choice for commuters and frequent travellers alike. The village is situated directly on the main Hastings to London Charing Cross railway line, providing regular train services to both the capital and the coast.

Robertsbridge railway station sits at the heart of the village, with journey times of around 1 hour 20 minutes to London and about 25 minutes to Hastings. Bus services connect Robertsbridge to nearby towns such as Battle, Etchingham, and Rye. The A21 trunk road runs just east of the village, offering road users direct links to both London and Hastings.

For those travelling further afield, Gatwick Airport is approximately an hour’s drive, making international travel convenient without the hustle of larger towns.

Commute times to key cities and towns:

• London – approx. 1 hour 20 minutes by train from Robertsbridge station
• Hastings – approx. 25 minutes by train; 30 minutes by road via A21
• Tunbridge Wells – approx. 30 minutes by car
• Brighton – about 1 hour by car

The easy access to both road and rail means residents benefit from rural living without being isolated from urban centres.

Families searching for schools in Robertsbridge have access to a good selection of educational options, from village primary schools to respected secondary schools and sixth forms in nearby towns.

Primary schools: The main primary facility in the village is Salehurst Church of England Primary School. This school is known for its supportive environment and strong community links, catering to children aged 4 to 11. The school was rated “Good” by Ofsted in its most recent inspection (2018), and has a reputation for encouraging both academic and personal development.

Secondary schools: Robertsbridge Community College is the primary secondary school in the area, serving students aged 11 to 16. This popular school was also rated “Good” by Ofsted in 2017 and provides a broad curriculum, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and personalised support for pupils. For sixth form options, many local students progress to sixth form colleges in nearby towns such as Battle or Hastings.

Independent schools & Academies: For those seeking independent education, Claremont Independent School is situated in nearby Bodiam, a short drive away. Further options such as Battle Abbey School and Buckswood School (near Guestling) are also accessible.

Colleges & Universities: While Robertsbridge itself doesn’t host higher education colleges or universities, students are within easy reach of colleges in Hastings (including Sussex Coast College) and the University of Brighton campus at Hastings, as well as further options in Eastbourne and Tunbridge Wells.