East Dean Village lies a short walk from Birling Gap, Beachy Head, Cuckmere Haven and the Sussex coast. Many of the buildings in the village are of historical interest. Sherlock Homes retired here, apparently, and there is a blue plaque on a house near the village green to prove it!
Smugglers have a long association with East Dean. The bow fronted house called Dipperies was built by James Dippery, a gentleman smuggler, who when caught turned King's evidence sending his compatriots to Botany Bay allowing him to build his home and keep his loot.
Access to East Dean Village is free.