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Rye isn’t one of the first names that comes to mind when you think of fantastic places to visit in England. However, that isn’t because this town doesn’t have a lot to offer. It just tends to go under the radar, as most people often prefer visits to popular locations. But if you’re one who fancies a unique yet exciting experience, there are tons of amazing things to do in Rye, East Sussex.
Over the years, Rye has developed into a hip getaway destination. What once was a quiet seaside town is now filled with many great attractions waiting to be explored. So if you’re in East Sussex and looking for some adventure, you should check out this guide.
Table Of Contents
- 1 15 Best Things To Do In Rye
- 1.1 1. Explore The Rye Heritage Centre
- 1.2 2. Relax At Camber Sands Beach
- 1.3 3. Take A Walk Around Mermaid Street
- 1.4 4. Visit St Mary’s Church
- 1.5 5. Enjoy Literary Connections At The Lamb House
- 1.6 6. View Displays At The Rye Castle Museum - Ypres Tower
- 1.7 7. Observe Wildlife At The Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
- 1.8 8. Take in Views At Winchelsea Beach
- 1.9 9. Dine At The Mermaid Inn
- 1.10 10. Sleep Over At Rye Windmill
- 1.11 11. Walk Through Landgate
- 1.12 12. Shops and Stop At The Eateries
- 1.13 13. Take A Boat Trip Across River Rother
- 1.14 14. Just Walk
- 1.15 15. View The Exhibitions At Rye Art Gallery
- 2 The Best Time To Visit Rye
- 3 Is Rye Worth A Day Trip?
- 4 Seize The Day In Rye On A Budget
- 5 Frequently Asked Questions
- 6 Conclusion
15 Best Things To Do In Rye
Rye, East Sussex, is a small town on top of a hill at the meeting spot of three rivers: The Rother, Tillingham and Brede. Medieval Rye was a seaport, and it also played a vital role in the defence of the country. Its interesting history and modern attractions make it a magnificent location for a holiday.
1. Explore The Rye Heritage Centre
If you live for tales and want to hear the story of this historic town, we recommend a visit to the Rye Heritage Centre. This small local history museum, which is housed in a converted 19th-century sail loft, features many exhibits that detail the past of Rye.
Rye Heritage Centre is only a two-minute walk from Rye station, so this can be the first place you visit when you arrive in this town.
Start by exploring the excellent 1:100 scale model, which shows how Rye locked in Victorian times. Next, proceed to the Old Pier Penny Arcade on the first floor to check out the large collection of pre-decimal amusement machines. The Rye Heritage Centre also has a souvenir shop where you can purchase a range of locally produced art and gifts.
2. Relax At Camber Sands Beach
It’s a sunny day, and you’re looking for an outdoor experience in Rye. Why not head to Camber Sands? This beautiful beach is one of the few in Sussex with sand.
This beach is great as a whole, but the best section is the western end, close to the point where the River Rother empties into the sea. Here, it’s sandy all around, making it a great place to relax.
The dunes at Camber Sands were used for exercises in the Second World War.
There are a host of activities to try at Camber Sands. In fact, it is one of the best places in the UK for windsurfing and beachcombing. You can also enjoy horseback riding or indulge in a tasty meal from one of the cafes around.
3. Take A Walk Around Mermaid Street
A visit to Mermaid Street is sure to brighten up your day. This street offers immeasurable levels of charm, so much so that it has been labelled one of the most beautiful streets in the whole of the UK. Many tourists are drawn to the beautiful location just to experience its sheer beauty and snap photographs.
Mermaid Street gets its name from The Mermaid Inn, a lodging building that dates back to 1156. The Mermaid Inn has seen it all, starting as a mediaeval alehouse before serving as a haven for Catholic Priests. You can also stop by the Mermaid Street Café for a cup of coffee and a tasty snack.
Eastbourne is another resort town in East Sussex with many fun activities to do and things to see.
4. Visit St Mary’s Church
For more than 900 years, St Mary’s Church in Church Square has dominated the hills of this old town. Also known as the Cathedral of East Sussex’, this church has been around all through the transformation of Rye. During the French attack on the town in 1377, St Mary’s Parish Church was badly damaged, yet it was one of the few buildings that survived.
For £2.50, you can climb the bell tower in St Mary’s Church for a magnificent view over the red-tiled rooftops of Rye.
It was eventually restored after the Second World War, and now it’s a great place to come visit for an insight into the town’s history. The clock on the turret was installed around 1561 and is one of the UK’s oldest working church turret clocks.
Find out various facts about the county Rye is in.
5. Enjoy Literary Connections At The Lamb House
Lamb House, a Grade II listed 18th-century house, is located on West Street at the top of Mermaid Street. Lamb House was built by James Lamb in 1723, but when a storm stranded King George I’s ship at Camber, Lamb gave up his bed, making it the king’s temporary residence.
Lamb House has been run by the National Trust since 1950.
Over the years, the Lamb House has served as the home of many notable people, including writer Henry James and author EF Benson. Today, Lamb House is preserved as it might have appeared during James’s lifetime, featuring mementos and photographs. You can also explore the beautiful garden just behind the house.
6. View Displays At The Rye Castle Museum - Ypres Tower
Rye Castle Museum comprises two buildings lumped together. There’s the Ypres Tower site, one of the oldest buildings in the town. This tower, which dates back to 1249, was built to defend Rye against attacks from across the channel. Now a Scheduled Ancient Monument, its square stone structure features round towers on all sides.
These days, Ypres Tower houses various exciting items, including local pottery, displays relating to smuggling and replicas of ancient weapons. You can also enjoy spending time in the recreation of a medieval herb garden. We like this museum very much because it is child-friendly and the kids are encouraged to get hands-on with most of the exhibits.
7. Observe Wildlife At The Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is located approximately 1.4 miles southeast of Rye. This wildlife site is the size of 600 football pitches, extending over a beautiful coastal and wetland landscape. Rye Harbour is home to over 4,355 species of animals and plants, including those that are rare and endangered.
Tip: Bring thick clothing because it can get very windy at the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.
Get ready to explore the mosaic of shingle beaches, saline lagoons, salt marsh, grassland, scrub and reedbeds. You can catch the flowers at their best from late May to July, but the birdlife is varied all through the year. Rye Harbour Nature Reserve also features Camber Castle, an artillery fort built by Henry VIII in 1544 to guard the port of Rye. You can access Camber Castle by taking a 1-mile walk from Rye through the nature reserve.
8. Take in Views At Winchelsea Beach
If you like a quiet waterside experience, a visit to Winchelsea Beach will interest you. This small, rural beach is much calmer than most others along this stretch of the south coast. Unlike Camber Sands, this gentle beach is made up of shingles. However, you can see some level of sand and mud when the tide is out.
On the top of the sea wall, you can look southeast to enjoy fantastic views of the Dungeness headland. Looking to the west on clear days, it’s also possible to see the red cliffs at Fairlight. Winchelsea Beach offers a range of interesting activities, ranging from kayaking and jet-skiing to windsurfing.
If you enjoy watersports, check out our guide to the best beaches in East Sussex with options for various activities.
9. Dine At The Mermaid Inn
We have mentioned the Mermaid Inn earlier in the article, but we didn’t explain why it’s a great place to visit. This Grade III listed inn dates back to the 12th century. It was destroyed in an attack by the French in 1377, along with most of Rye. However, the inn was rebuilt again in 1420, and has since recorded a rich history.
The Mermaid Inn has been owned by Judith Blincow since 1993.
If you fancy horror tales, it’s said that a maid was murdered in this inn in the 15th century and continues to haunt it today. There are 31 unique rooms with creaking floorboards and sloping ceilings. The Mermaid Inn also offers fantastic meals and various kinds of drinks.
10. Sleep Over At Rye Windmill
Rye Windmill is a great place to stay if you’re looking to awaken your creative spirit or just want some peaceful time with family and friends. This grade II listed building is one of the town’s most famous landmarks and can be easily accessed from the train station and most other areas of the town.
Rye Windmill B&B offers excellent accommodation and hospitality. With a licenced honesty bar and cosy lounge, it’s easy to put all your worries aside during your time here. The B&B gets its name from a windmill, which has stood on this site for over 450 years. In fact, there’s a suite specifically inside the windmill, which boasts panoramic town-and-country views from the balcony.
11. Walk Through Landgate
Langdate is a stone arch gateway on the edge of Rye. Built in 1329, this gate is the only surviving one out of the four original gates that made up the defensive wall that once surrounded the citadel on the then-island. Many centuries ago, Landgate was the only pathway to the mainland at high tide. Today, it is one of the most historic landmarks in the town.
Landgate Street was formerly known as Kings Street.
You’ll find the gate flanked by beautiful houses with window sills draped in blooms. Plan your visit to Landgate when visiting other locations in the town centre to save time. If you’re coming in your car, you can find parking at Lucknow Place Car Park. There’s also a large playground next to the gate where kids can run around.
12. Shops and Stop At The Eateries
Rye is a wonderful place to shop for quirky gifts and art, and there are also numerous fantastic eateries around. The town centre is filled with wonderful art galleries and independent shops selling various kinds of gifts.
You’re also spoiled for choice in terms of food, with plenty of local eateries and restaurants around. You’ll get everything from traditional English grub to different world cuisines. Many historic pubs also offer fine wine, local ales, gins and whiskies.
13. Take A Boat Trip Across River Rother
Taking a boat trip over the River Rother is another delightful and relaxing activity you can try out when visiting Rye. Running for 35 miles (56 km) through the English counties of East Sussex and Kent, River Rother offers a picturesque setting that combines natural beauty with historical significance.
The course of the River Rother has been changed many times over the years.
A trip to this place offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The gentle rocking of the boat and the peaceful ambience create a soothing environment that helps you relax. As you glide along the river, you’ll be treated to beautiful scenes of lush greenery and old cottages. You can also capture stunning shots of the river and the town’s skyline.
14. Just Walk
Walking in Rye can be a delightful experience. The cobbled streets of this historic town are filled with quirky shops, cosy cafes and various mediaeval buildings that might interest you. The scenic beauty of the harbour and marshlands is also very refreshing, offering an opportunity to enjoy nature.
We recommend taking leisurely strolls along the coastline, breathing in the sea air and exploring attractions all around. Best of all, you get to learn about the town’s rich history while having fun.
15. View The Exhibitions At Rye Art Gallery
This one’s for you if you’re an art lover. At the heart of old Rye, in a pair of historic buildings on Rye High Street, you’ll find Rye Art Gallery, which was founded by artists Mary and Howard Stormont in 1957. The gallery features various collections, including a permanent exhibition of national importance and new works by local artists.
The Rye Art Gallery building and the neighbouring shops are all listed as Grade II for their heritage interest.
This gallery was started based on paintings from the Stormonts’ gallery collection, but the initial collections have since been expanded, and the gallery now holds more than 460 works. Stormornt’s collection mainly features paintings, prints, drawings, photographs and sculptures from the 19th and 20th centuries.
The Best Time To Visit Rye
When to visit Rye ultimately depends on what you intend to do here. If you’re looking to explore its cobbled lanes, historic houses and nature walks, you can come at any time during the year, as the town and its surroundings are gorgeous in all seasons.
You may, however, need to pick your time if you plan to attend a particular event. Many events are held in this resort annually, ranging from a bonfire and a Christmas festival in the winter to a scallop week in February.
Rye gets busy in the summer, so it’s a good idea to make lodging reservations early if you’re visiting then.
Temperature-wise, June, July, and August offer the best, with an average temperature of between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. Most other parts of the year are also great, but you can expect rain between November and January.
Is Rye Worth A Day Trip?
Yes, Rye is worth a day trip. This delightful resort town is a fantastic holiday location for most people because of its charming and historic atmosphere. Rye boasts a well-preserved mediaeval town centre with ancient streets, very old buildings and half-timbered houses. The town’s architecture features landmark sites like Camber Castle, Mermaid Street and Rye Castle Museum.
As a plus, Rye is situated near the coast, so it offers scenic views and the chance to explore beautiful beaches and Nature reserves. Furthermore, the town’s galleries and artistic community make it a hub for creativity.
Seize The Day In Rye On A Budget
The great thing about Rye is that you don’t have to break the bank when visiting. You can enjoy a budget day out at this resort with proper planning.
- Visit Free Attractions: You can start your day with a visit to Mermaid Street. Take some time to admire the charming architecture and take photos, all without spending a penny. St Mary’s Church in Church Square is another iconic landmark that requires little money. You may need to pay a small fee to enter the church, but everything else is free. Also, check out Rye Harbour Nature Reserve and the Rye Town Hall.
- Save Money on Food: While there are many great restaurants in this ancient town, visiting them may eat deep into your pocket. Instead, consider bringing your own meal and enjoying a picnic in one of Rye’s scenic spots.
- Public Transport: If you’re unable to hire a car for your trip to Rye, consider public transport. Rye has a good transport system, which can help you get around while reducing expenses.
- Plan Ahead: Rye is filled with exciting activities for everyone, so the key to making the most out of your trip here is proper planning. Research in advance to find out if there’s a special event or free activity happening during your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Town Of Rye Famous For?
The town of Rye is most famous for Mermaid Street and Rye Castle. Mermaid Street is an iconic UK street that is famous for its charming cobblestone pavement and historic buildings. Rye Castle, on the other hand, is an accredited museum comprising RCM East Street and RCM Ypres Tower, which welcome an incredible number of tourists yearly.
What Is The Prettiest Street In Rye?
The prettiest street in Rye is Mermaid Street. Mermaid Street is rated one of the most beautiful areas in the whole of England. The street attracts plenty of visitors each year who come to experience its beauty and take photos for social media. Mermaid Street is also home to the Mermaid Inn and lots of other historical houses.
Does Rye Have A Beach?
Yes, Rye has a beach. In fact, there are shingle and sandy beach options in the town to suit various preferences. Anyone looking to enjoy the tenderness of the brown sand in a quiet, glorious environment should head to Camber Sands. If you prefer a shingle beach experience, you can try visiting Winchelsea and Pett Level beaches.
Do You Need A Car In Rye?
No, you don’t need a car in Rye. Rye has a fairly compact layout, so you don’t necessarily have to use a car to get around. You can walk or cycle to most locations across the town and there are also public transportation options should you want to get somewhere fast. However, if you want to explore the surrounding countryside, you may be better off hiring a car for your trip.
What To Do In Rye Without A Car?
You can explore Rye’s historic centre without a car. Wander through the streets while visiting various charming shops and taking in the stunning architecture. You can also visit the Rye Castle Museum to learn about the town’s smuggling history. If the weather is nice, board a bus to Camber Sands Beach for a relaxing day.
Conclusion
There you have it: a list of the most interesting things to do in Rye. As one of England’s most beautiful towns with plenty of history, a visit to Rye promises plenty of excitement and a learning experience. So, why don’t you hire that car and get ready to experience the best of this resort?
I had no idea Rye had so much to offer! Definitely adding it to my travel bucket list.
Are there any local food specialties or dishes I should try while in Rye?
Rye offers a variety of dining options, including traditional English cuisine and international dishes. Be sure to try some local seafood dishes and the offerings at the pubs.