Rye, Sussex
Details
Accessibility
Brief description
"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."
Address
Postcode district: TN31
Rye, East Sussex
Phone
Dialling code: 01797
Website
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rye,_East_Sussex
Directions
"Rye is about 65 miles south east of London, is easily accessible via the major motorway network of the M20 and is well served by public transport."
https://www.visitsoutheastengland.com/places-to-visit/rye-p274421
Opening Times
Always check with the venue directly for up-to-date information including opening times and admission charges as they may be subject to change
Transport
Amenities
2025: Things to do in Rye:
- Rye Castle Museum has a number of fascinating exhibitions about local history and archaeology. https://ryemuseum.co.uk/
- If you love the outdoors head to Rye Harbour Nature Reserve with its new discovery centre (opened May 21), to find wildlife and habitats, history and landscape, bird hides and walks beside the sea. https://rye.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/? Or enjoy a walk or cycle along the Royal Military Canal it was designed as a defence barrier on the low-lying land between Winchelsea and Hythe. https://explorekent.org/activities/royal-military-canal/
- Walk in the footsteps of William the Conqueror along the 31 miles long 1066 Country Walk. Newly revamped for 2021, it includes ten specially commissioned sculptures based on the Bayeux Tapestry. Start or finish the walk in Rye.
- Sample the delights of the local speciality Rye Bay scallops, at one of the many resturants and bars within the town.
- Start you visit to Rye, at the newly reopened Rye Heritage Centre, with its renowned town model and listen to the story of Rye. https://www.ryeheritage.co.uk/
- The National Trust's Lamb House is an early Georgian house with one of the largest gardens in the old town of Rye. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/lamb-house
- Head out of town and relax on the fine beaches of Camber Sands or the mroe adventurous may wish to take to the water with Action Watersports.
- Built by King Henry VIII nearly 500 years ago, visit nearby Camber Castle for some fantastic views of the surrounding countryside. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/camber-castle/
Travel Information
For further travel information please see: www.traveline.info
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