Rye

Rye in East Sussex Town Guide

Cadborough Cottages

About Rye in East Sussex

Travelling westward across Romney Marsh, the distinctive outline of Rye can be seen in the distance. It rises above the level green pastures, stretching from the sea to the far hills which formed the shoreline before the marsh was drained.

Once surrounded by sea, this fortified hilltop town played an important role in the defence of the south coast of England. These days, the river no longer harbours warships and is home to the local fishing fleet.

Meandering for over one and a half miles from Rye to the coast, the river forms part of the picturesque scenery visible from several vantage points in and around the citadel of Rye.

St Mary’s church tower (usually open to the public) offers the best viewpoint to show the terracotta roofs of the many timbered houses. These ancient buildings, cobbled streets and secret passages, once the haunt of smugglers and highwaymen, regularly attract film crews in search of historical settings for period productions.

Many authors, musicians, artists and celebrities have made Rye their home, a medieval haven periodically visited by Royalty. In 1573 the title “Rye Royale” was bestowed upon the town by Queen Elizabeth I after a three day stay.

The sheer concentration of living history packed into this vibrant market town makes it the ideal base for a holiday of discovery, or a relaxing short break. There are many comfortable, welcoming hotels and guest houses and plenty of charming inns and restaurants.

What’s new?

95 Udimore Road
95 Udimore Road

Located in Rye in the East Sussex region, 95 Udimore Road has a terrace.

Listed in: Bed and Breakfast

Featured Links

Jeake's House
Jeake's House

Award winning 17th century town house in medieval cobbled street

Cadborough Cottages
Cadborough Cottages

Walking distance from Rye. Ample parking. Peaceful location.

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Attractions and Activities

1066 Country Walk

Enjoy the exhilarating 1066 Country Walk from or to Rye. The whole walk to Pevensey takes four days, allowing time to visit the places of interest on the way, or you can go from Rye to Battle or vice versa … more

Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin

For almost 900 years the Parish Church of Rye, dedicated to St Mary the Virgin, has dominated the hill on which the old town stands. It has stood through good times and bad. In 1377 when the town was looted … more

Accommodation

1 Regent Square

2 bedroom modern house in Rye Town centre with private parking. Sleeps up to 5 persons. Fully fitted kitchen with washer/dryer and dishwasher. All linen, towels, gas,electric & Wi-Fi are included in the price. Min stay 2 nights winter. 3 … more

The Artist’s Cottage

The Artist’s Cottage is a beautiful Grade II listed building built in 1483. Located in the heart of Rye’s historic citadel area, this newly renovated cottage is ideally situated for exploring the town and accessing the surrounding coast and countryside. … more

Flushing House

This fascinating Grade II* listed house of immense historical interest was built around 1520 and boasts the original Tudor turning staircase.it was also extensively used in the Mapp and Lucia filming in Rye. Flushing House has a Gold Award given … more

Restaurants

Globe Inn Marsh

A traditional but modern country inn located in the heart of Rye, just a couple of miles from the coast. Specialises in using fresh and local produce to create good innovative home cooked food from Field Farm Sea and offer … more

The Mermaid Inn

One of England’s oldest and loveliest inns, with Norman cellars dating from 1156, the Mermaid, rebuilt in 1420, offers tradition and charm in abundance. A jewel in the crown of Rye, the inn has a wide range of accommodation including … more

The Ship Inn

In the centre of the small, charming town of Rye, the Ship is a modern take on the traditional English inn – a cosy pub, rich in original character, with simple, comfortable en suite rooms above. Originally built in 1592, … more

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