Rye, East Sussex: what to know and where to visit

Thursday, 27 October 2022 12:01

By Mary Goodsell

This characterful and quaint town in 1066 Country will enthral visitors with its history, charm and scenic surroundings, discovers Sara Whatley.

As you wend your way down the cobbled streets of central Rye you can practically hear the echoes of smugglers past. Wonky half-timbered houses flank the sides of Mermaid Street, which is something out of a storybook, and add gallons of charm to this medieval coastal town in East Sussex.

This town is built on a murky history of smuggling and maritime conflict and secrets seem to spill out of the nooks and crannies. It was once one of southeast England’s most important ports but today is better known for its colourful history, gastronomic delights, arts scene and antiques shops.
Fresh produce from land and sea make dining in Rye a delight.

All requirements are catered for with fine dining restaurants, cosy pubs, and cafes a plenty. Some of the ancient boltholes date back hundreds of years and a drink in one of these establishments will come up from the cellar dripping in historic tales.

Shopping in Rye is a unique experience with plenty of independents and boutiques. Art galleries, pottery, and lots of antique shops guarantee finding some hidden treasures and attract both local shoppers and day-trippers alike.

The 150-year-old Rye Market is held every Thursday on Rope Walk. This traditional market holds a variety of stalls including clothing, chutneys and pickles.

The history of Rye is vast and there are many historic sights to discover. One of them is St Mary’s Church; climb the bell tower to drink in the views of the town’s rooftops and learn the history of the eight bells – looted during a French invasion and taken to France, only to be recovered the following year, in 1378, by men from Rye and Winchelsea who sailed to Normandy, set fire to two towns and reclaimed the bells.
A day or weekend visit to this seaside town will wash away the blues and replace them with wonder, discovery and amazing stories.

Top Attractions

Lamb House – a Georgian Grade II listed writer’s house museum and former residence of Henry James
Camber Sands – Vast golden sand beach and dunes a short bus ride away from Rye or an invigorating three-mile hike
Rye Castle and the Ypres Tower – Dating from the 13th or 14th century this Grade I listed building was both a prison and a morgue
Romney Marsh – Miles of sparsely populated wetlands with a sense of raw isolation. Also home to the Romney Marsh sheep, considered one of the most important and historic breeds

See our visitors guide to Heathfield, here.

Rye, East Sussex: what to know and where to visit

Top Attractions

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