Rye

A brief history of Rye

A French Town
Normandy was returned to the French in 1205 and Rye with it. The authorities reunited the town with the English Crown in 1247. Afterwards, King Edward III improved the defences by constructing four gates and a wall. Parts of these fortifications are still around, like the Landgate and castle.

Cinque Ports
The Charter of the Cinque Ports united the kingdom's defence, together with towns along the coast of Kent and Sussex, which provided safe harbour, ships and men. In return, towns such as Hastings, Rye and Winchelsea were exempted from taxes and customs duties, trading concessions and rights to hold judicial courts.

Attack
Rye was attacked regularly by the French to test the defences and to raid the port. In 1377 a devastating attack happened where fire almost destroyed Rye, and someone stole the bells of St Mary's Church. The following year, a revenge voyage occurred with the return of the bells and other stolen loot.

During the 18th century, smuggling was common in Rye; there were networks of secret tunnels and passages so people could store their stolen booty in old, vaulted cellars.

Highlights of Rye 

Mermaid Street
Known as the most picture-perfect street in Rye, Mermaid Street runs down a cobbled hill and is packed with half-timbered Tudor buildings like "The House with Two Front Doors" or "The House Opposite".

Rye Castle Museum
Visit Ypres Tower, where you'll learn about Rye's history. The Tower has had different roles throughout nine centuries, starting as a defence and currently housing a museum. Feel free to climb the Tower and marvel at the views over the town and the River Rother. This place has various exhibits from Rye's past, such as a model showing the changing shoreline, a medieval herb garden and even prisoner cells.

Independent shops 
Rye is known for its array of independent shops, from homeware and gifts to quaint antique shops with furnishings and décor. Make sure to have a browse, and who knows what gems you'll find here. 

St. Mary's Church
This church is known for having the oldest functioning turret clock in the country, but that's only one reason to visit. Challenge yourself to climb the Tower where you'll see the clock mechanism, bells and be amazed by the spectacular view of the town and its surroundings.

Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
If you're a lover of nature, take a walk from the harbour to the nature reserve where so far over 280 bird species have been recorded in the conservation area. A network of paths takes you past freshwater gravel pits, lagoons, and salt marsh habitat. Go wildlife watching or enjoy the coastal flowers and the fresh sea air.

Touring and Accommodation 
Rye is situated in the Rother district in East Sussex; combine a day tour of Rye with Great Dixter or Sissinghurst Castle. Brighton's vibrant seaside resort is about two hours away and can be paired perfectly with a trip to Rye. If you're planning on visiting Rye, make sure to pay a visit to both Pevensey Castle and Battle Abbey, these two towns are filled with history and make for a lovely time. 

There are several accommodations close by, such as Eastwell Manor, a luxury spa hotel in Ashford. If you'd prefer to stay in Rye, we would recommend the Mermaid Inn, a hotel known for its history. Another option is South Lodge, a luxury hotel and spa near Horsham overlooking the South Downs National Park.