In historical terms Salehurst is much older than its neighbour for, before the bridge over the River Rother was built it already existed, and is named in the Domesday Book. At the time the river crossing was by ford or ferry, but in the 12th century a newly-established order of Cistercian monks constructed the bridge, and the two settlements of Robertsbridge and Northbridge Street came into being; eventually - since the main road now bypassed the village - becoming much more important than Salehurst.
Salehurst lies approximately three miles from Bodiam, Sussex, site of Bodiam Castle.
The parish church is dedicated to St Mary the Virgin. It is reputed to be the largest rural parish church in East Sussex.