11 Spectacular things to do in Rye (East Sussex)

Only 75 miles away from the busy streets of London lies Rye – a hilltop town in East Sussex. This picturesque town has charm, history and is easily reachable from London. Whether you plan to spend a weekend here or just a short day trip, it is is well worth exploring. There is so much to see and do, and we hope this article will help you discover the best things to do in Rye.

 

Is Rye in East Sussex worth visiting?

If it isn’t on your travel list, well, it should be. This beautiful little town that time forgot is one of the prettiest towns in southeast England. It remains frozen in time and feels like a slice of the Cotswolds on the coast. Therefore, it’s certainly worth a visit.

 

What is this town famous for?

Rye is famous for tales of smuggling, rich history, and its streets are a photographer’s paradise. It’s one of the most attractive and best-preserved walled medieval hill towns in England. The old town has medieval houses, quirky shops, art galleries and cosy cafes. They are perfect for a weekend break.

 

The best things to do in Rye, East Sussex

 

1. Landgate

FUN FACT:

Did you know many years ago, Rye was an island surrounded by water on all sides? Today, it is hard to imagine because this hilltop town is about two miles from the coast. But for centuries, it was a medieval seaside town with an important port.

 

Let’s dive a little deeper into its history. In the past, this town had four gates around the town to protect against attacks. Only one of the original four gates remains visible today. Which one, you may ask? It’s the impressive Landgate. This stone archway was the only land connection to the mainland at high tide. It is part of the original town walls from the 14th century, built to protect the town from the French.

Seeing Landgate is one of the best things to do in Rye because this archway is the only surviving gate from the medieval fortification. The monument has a chamber between two towers with stairs inside. Even though you cannot go inside, you can see a plaque with a brief history.

 

2. Explore its streets

It has narrow lanes, half-timbered houses, and even haunted inns. There are quirky shops, art galleries, and independent traders – all of which create the perfect shopping experience. It’s the ideal place for a peaceful escape, with charming restaurants, coffee shops, and rustic tea rooms. It is also famous for its pottery, with several pottery shops in the town.

It is easy to fall in love with Rye. This lovely little town has a labyrinth of beautiful cobblestone streets and wonky-timbered buildings.

 

Do not miss Church Square, which has beautiful half-timbered buildings dating back to the 15th century. Also, Watchbell Street has gorgeous houses and is a photographer’s delight.

 

3. Mermaid Street

 

You will probably recognise bits of this town even if you have never been before. It’s thanks to Mermaid Street, which you can see in all pictures. Why is Mermaid Street famous, you may ask? This iconic street is the pride of the town and possibly the most photographed street in England. Leafy Mermaid Street, with half-timbered Tudor buildings lining either side, ranks among the most picturesque streets in Britain. It’s an Instagrammer’s dream, especially in May when the wisteria is in full bloom.

 

Mermaid Street – one of the most beautiful streets in England.

 

Not only it is gorgeous, but this quaint, cobbled hill also has a fascinating past. Here’s where it gets juicy: You can find the famous Mermaid Inn with a rich and colourful history. It is one of the oldest buildings in the town and one of the most famous inns in southeast England. It has smugglers’ roots, and some even say that the Mermaid Inn has ghosts within its walls.

 

4. St Mary’s Church

Many visitors turn back once they see the iconic Mermaid Street, but that would be a mistake. Before you leave, head towards St Mary’s Church, one of the most historic buildings in the town, dating back almost 900 years. St Mary’s Church is a Grade 1 listed building and certainly one of the best attractions in this town. You can find it at the heart of the town, on top of the hill.

 

Why should you visit? There are two reasons why visiting St Mary’s Church is one of the best things to do in Rye. First, St Mary’s Church has the oldest functioning church turret clock in the country. Second, it offers beautiful views from its tower.

 

TIP:

Don’t forget to climb the bell tower at St Mary’s Church to see the clock mechanism, its bells, and gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside and town. On a clear day, you can see as far as France.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

St Mary’s Church is open daily between 9.15 am and 4.15 pm in summer (5.15 in winter), and you can explore it for free. As of May 2024, there is a small charge of £4 to climb the tower. Remember, the staircase is narrow in places, and the wooden steps at the top are steep. Also, don’t miss the Rye Water House, an ancient cistern that lies in the churchyard.

 

5. Ypres Tower 

However, the history does not end there. Merely a stone’s throw away from the church is Ypres Tower. Have you ever heard about it? King Henry III ordered its construction to protect against French invaders. Back then, this medieval seaside town was one of the most important harbours in the country. During medieval times, Ypres Tower directly overlooked the harbour. Today, it sits about two miles away from the coast.

 

 

Ypres Tower even became a prison in the past. Today, it is a grade-I-listed building and one of the best attractions in the town.

 

Exploring Ypres Tower is one of the best things if you want to learn more about the town’s history. Explore Ypres Tower – it’s one of two sites of Rye Castle Museum. Look at relics of the past and see exhibits such as local pottery, medieval artefacts, and a model showing how the shoreline has changed. Climb the tower for the views of the town and the Harbour Nature Reserve. Also, do not miss the prisoner cells and a rare smuggler’s signalling lamp near the Castle Museum.

 

Afterwards, visit East Street Sites, the main exhibit area of the museum, and learn even more about the town’s history. Cannons and balls in front of the tower remind us of the tower’s role in the past.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

• Both Ypres Tower and the Castle Museum are kid-friendly and make learning history fun at any age. The museum opens seven days a week throughout the year.
• As of May 2024, an entry ticket to Ypres Tower costs £5.00 for adults; children under 16 enter for free when accompanied by an adult.

 

6. Rye Harbour Nature Reserve

Go Bird Watching at Harbour Nature Reserve – it’s one of the best things to do in Rye for wildlife enthusiasts.

 

 Just south of the town, you will find Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. Did you know it’s one of the most important wildlife conservation sites in Britain? Part of the attraction to this coastal nature reserve is its low-key vibe and miles of paths. Take a leisurely walk through the network of paths that lead to wetlands and salt marshes. Here, you can see thousands of plants and animals, including rare ones. Don’t miss the information boards about salt marshes; they will help you to understand more about the area. Remember to pack binoculars and a camera with a good zoom. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a seal in this natural wonderland.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

This Harbour Nature Reserve is free to visit. Drive or take the number 312 bus from the train station. There is a free car park and a visitor’s centre where you can learn more about the reserve.

 

7. Camber Castle

©sussexwildlifetrust

 

After exploring the nature reserve, head to Camber Castle, known locally as Winchelsea Castle. Even though this symmetrical stone building is now in ruins, it stands as a perfect example of a unique fortress. Why did Henry VIII build Camber Castle, do you ask? He needed to protect the south coast against French invasions. This artillery fort once guarded the port of the town, overlooking the shallow sea. Today, Camber Castle, with the flower-like curtain wall, is a Grade I listed building and a rare example of its kind. That’s why visiting Camber Castle is one of the best things to do in Rye.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

Camber Castle lies between the town and Winchelsea in the Harbour Nature Reserve. There’s no access by car, only by foot through the nature reserve, so pack comfy shoes. The castle’s exterior is free to visit during daylight hours as of May 2024.

 

8. Camber Sands Beach

A trip to Rye would not be complete without visiting Camber Sands. Did you know this stunning, wide sandy beach is home to the only dune system in East Sussex? Golden Camber Sands, with its giant dunes, is one of the best beaches in England. That’s why spending a day relaxing on Camber Sands is one of the best things to do in Rye.

Not only Camber Sands is famous for its unspoilt views and inviting sea but also for being a haven for horseriders, dog walkers, and picnic enthusiasts. Bordering the Harbour Nature Reserve, Camber Sands lies just a couple miles from the town.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

Hop on a bus (line 102) – there is a regular bus service from the town to Camber Sands. Alternatively, you can walk or cycle along National Cycle Network Route 2 from the town to Camber Sands. There’s also a trail near the town’s train station, which passes alongside Camber Road.

 

9. Rye Heritage Centre

Another quirky place to visit is Rye Heritage Centre, operated by an independent local charity. This Heritage Centre is a small but fascinating spot where you’ll uncover the town’s story in about 30 minutes. One of the top attractions here is a mini model of the old Victorian town – it’s like going back in time before you even step outside! And don’t miss the fun part – a sound and light show, which helps you to understand 700 years of the town’s history and geography. Also, they’ve got old arcade games.

 

10. Bodiam Castle

If there is one place you cannot miss after exploring this town, it’s the stunning Bodiam Castle. Just take a quick look at the map, and you’ll see that this fortress is only a short drive from the town. And here’s some good news: this castle isn’t too large, making it easy to navigate on foot.

 

So, why should you pay a visit? Well, for starters, Bodiam Castle is one of the most impressive moated castles in England. It has a carp-filled moat, charming gardens, and splendid grounds – a perfect spot for a summer picnic. Despite being in ruins, this National Trust property offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval life.

 

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11. Lamb House

If you have any energy and time left, don’t miss out on Lamb House, a gem owned by the National Trust and a must-visit spot in the town. This charming Georgian house was originally the home of a local wine merchant and politician. But what makes it so cool? Well, Lamb House is a literary time capsule with important connections to the literary world. Imagine walking where famous writers like Henry James and E. F. Benson once lived. Fun fact: even King George I found shelter here after a wild storm nearly three centuries ago! And let’s not forget about its gardens – Lamb House boasts one of the town’s biggest private walled gardens, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

Open daily from Friday to Tuesday, Lamb House’s entry ticket costs £8.50 for adults as of May 2024.

 

Now you know what the best things to do in Rye are!

Have you visited this pretty town in East Sussex? What was your favourite thing to do there? If you have any tips and what to do or see, let us know in the comments below.

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Last updated: 30/05/2024