A lovely fanciful town, Rye is a stunning spot to delight in a short vacation in East Sussex. Crooked Tudor buildings, charming rock streets, and intense flower blossoms make it difficult to dislike this enchanting area, which is why many select to spend a weekend break vacation below. As well as despite its little size, Rye supplies visitors an abundance of fun tourist attractions as well as things to do.
Quickly obtainable from London (it exists about an hour away), Rye lies at the assemblage of the Rother, Tillingham, and Brede rivers. The town is steeped in background, and lots of residues of its middle ages heyday can be discovered in its damages, while stories of its exciting past as a smuggling port cut loose.
When checking out, you’ll locate a multitude of vintage and diverse shops as well as some rave-worthy restaurants lining the secret flows, winding laneways, and also cobbled courses that make this town so tempting. It’s simple to lose yourself to Rye’s beauty, and we don’t indicate just literally.
Plan your sightseeing and tour with our listing of the leading things to do in Rye.
1. Go Bird-Watching at Rye Harbour Nature Get
Nature lovers will love Rye Harbour Nature Get, particularly those with a propensity for bird-watching. The over 1,000-acre reserve contains whatever from marshland to sand to timbers. And also it flaunts over 4,000 species of animals.
Pick from among five comfortable bird-watching huts (a.k.a. hides) to take pleasure in magnificent landscapes. The one closest to Camber Castle never ever lets down. This is without a doubt one of one of the most prominent points to do in Rye.
Or, trek along one of the many walkways leading you around salt marshes, saline lagoons, and also large grassland. The primary courses are flat and also large, that make them ideal for those pushing a stroller, wheelchair, or bike.
The Rye Harbour Discovery Centre is readied to open up in April 2020, which will add a cozy as well as comfortable area to kick back, learn, and observe animals.
Insider’s Idea: Load binoculars and a video camera with a great zoom, and also plan on spending at the very least a few hrs at this all-natural heaven.
2. Check Out Rye Castle Museum as well as Climb Up Ypres Tower
Rye Castle Gallery is among the best tourist attractions in Rye It consists of 2 websites: The Ypres Tower and also East Street, which is a brief leave. Ypres tower was appointed by Henry III as part of a protection approach versus French intruders as well as was later utilized as the town’s prison.
The Women’s Tower, which relaxes a small stairs in the garden, worked as the country’s very first jail for women. The views from the terrace are wonderful.
The East Street website, which opened in 1999, gives site visitors with a chance to check out the gallery’s collections and learn a lot more about the history of Rye as well as the Ypres Tower. It’s open from April 1st to October 31st.
Both places are kid-friendly and make discovering history a pleasure for those of any type of age. At both places, kids are motivated to get up close as well as touch much of the displays, including interactive maps and a location where they can try their hands at pulling a middle ages arrow and raising a hefty sword.
3. Admire the View from the Parish Church of St. Mary, Rye.
The magnificent Parish Church of St. Mary, Rye, likewise called the Cathedral of East Sussex, has actually enhanced the hill on which it means over 900 years. Its high apex can be seen from miles away, welcoming site visitors to enter its solemn rock wall surfaces.
The church has the requisite stained-glass windows and also stunning stonework of other churches developed around the exact same time. What sets this gorgeous church apart, however, is the remarkable St. Mary’s Tower.
A climb steep, narrow actions to its leading offers site visitors a breathtaking view. The expansive vista over the cemetery, community, and countryside below deserves the climb if you can make it. And also, the tower is a prominent area for marriage propositions, so you may witness history in the making.
Insider’s suggestion: Keep your eye out for the Rye Water House, an old cistern (a.k.a. water storage tank) that depends on the churchyard.
4. Take Photos on Mermaid Road
Mermaid street is just one of one of the most photographed streets in England and one of the best destinations in Rye. Cobbled and lined with uneven wood houses rupturing with blooms, it’s very easy to see why.
Walking along this winding laneway transportations site visitors back in time to a fairy-tale land with deals with around every edge. It runs in between Hair and West Streets in the old town and is house to among southeast England’s most renowned Inns-The Mermaid Inn. This quality III-listed historical Tudor inn is adorable, in spite of its history as a haunt for smugglers.
Likewise here is the family-run The Mermaid Road Café, a perfect spot to kick back, indulge in a cake, or full English breakfast, and people see (either from a window seat inside or an outdoor table). While straying the street, take note of the fun home names-from “The House With 2 Front Doors” to “The House Reverse,” they’re delightful and one-of-a-kind.
Insider’s Suggestion: Mermaid road can be steep sometimes, and also the patched rocks get slippery when damp. Leave the heels in your home in favor of comfortable walking shoes.
5. Excursion Lamb Residence
When residence to authors Henry James as well as E.F. Benson, Lamb Residence offered much ideas for their renowned jobs. The little yet royal home can be acknowledged in James’ description of Mr. Langdon’s home in An Awkward Age. As well as it is among the most preferred visitor destinations in Rye.
While James did much of his writing in the Green Room, he invested a lot of his summer seasons operating in the Yard Space. Unfortunately, this was ruined throughout a bombing raid in 1940. Today, visitors can see the Green Room firsthand, or visit the entrance hall, oak parlor, dining room, and also King’s area, to name a few. Thankfully for those craving an inside peek into the writers’ minds, Lamb Residence was lately revamped to permit more accessibility to their most precious spaces.
Expert’s Suggestion: Take pleasure in a cuppa at the brand-new Yard Cafeteria. Obtain a publication and also enjoy a few moments of privacy with a slice of cake. It’s only open from Fridays to Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.
6. Play in the Browse at Camber Sands
Bordering Rye Harbour Nature Reserve on one side as well as RSPB Dungeness on the various other, Camber Sands isn’t technically in Rye. Yet it will just take around 5 minutes to drive below.
This preferred sandy beach is a sanctuary for English weekenders from Rye and London, specifically in the summer. While visitors flock right here for a relaxing reprieve loaded with crashing waves and also miles of soft golden sand, it’s the verdant sand dunes that truly take your breath away.
This is the longest (as well as just) dune system in East Sussex. Whether you’re seeking to take in the rays, walk along the coastline, or swim in the sea (brrr), Camber Sands is a remarkable holiday spot. Plus, lifeguards are constantly at work, and toilet and also giving ins are available close by.
Expert’s Suggestion: Be cautious of the trends, which move quickly. The currents can be rather strong when the trend goes in and out.
7. Walk through the Landgate Arc
Built in 1329, this old arch, flanked by two large drum towers, was created to aid fortify Rye and act as the community’s only link to the mainland. At the time, Rye was an island, and also eviction offered the only access to land at high tide.
As soon as accompanied by a drawbridge, portcullis, and also 3 other portals, this remarkable rock arch as well as its clock (included 1862) are all that stays. The Sandgate, Baddings Gateway, and also Postern Gateway were eliminated after experiencing substantial damage.
The Landgate is a Provided Grade 1 Ancient Monolith as well as an extremely well-known attribute of the older section of town. Despite its age as well as somewhat narrow opening, vehicles are still able to drive under the arc, which is four feet greater than it was originally due to the roadway being decreased in time.
8. Feel Huge in the Rye Heritage Centre
If you have actually ever before wanted to feel like Gulliver in Lilliput, head to the Rye Heritage Centre. Home to a to-scale, hand-made design of Victorian Rye, this unique facility uses site visitors a remarkable peek into life as it was lived throughout this moment. It’s not huge, so you will not require to invest more than a hr right here.
Devoted to making learning enjoyable, the center’s Story of Rye noise as well as light show overviews guests via 700 years of the town’s background. Likewise on-site is a collection of Old Pier gallery games that extremely still function.
The present store sells a variety of gifts to take home, along with area maps, art, and other fun presents. Prior to you leave, reserve a guided strolling trip.
9. Follow the Path at the Royal Armed Force Canal
Really feel any type of residual stress and anxiety melt away as you stray along the soothing Royal Armed force Canal. A scenic walking as well as biking path makes it easy to comply with the water’s training course as it moves from Iden Lock to the Appledore Dam.
In addition to acting as a well-trodden walking path, the canal flaunts a fascinating background. It was hand dug in the very early 19th century to act as a defensive barrier between the communities of Hythe and also Winchelsea.
The canal is currently made use of to manage water levels in the surrounding marsh and also to assist shield the region from harmful floods. A haven for wildlife, this is a remarkable area to enjoy bird-watching.
The Royal Military Canal is equipped with fish consisting of carp, perch, bream, and also pike, yet you’ll require an authorization from the Rother Fishery Association (RFA) to attempt your luck at capturing one.
10. Hike to Camber Castle
This one-of-a-kind fortress, additionally known as Winchelsea Castle, was constructed in the early 16th century by Henry VIII. He appointed the stronghold to secure the surrounding shore from French intruders.
Initially, the castle was composed only of the weapons, which the questionable king understood wasn’t sufficient to provide defense. Over time, even more sections were developed, producing the concentric circles that compose this interesting fortress.
Found a mile from Rye, the vibrant, stone castle shows up wonderfully from a lavish landscape peppered with lamb as well as cattle. For those desire a better look, prepare your go to very carefully. The castle is just open the initial Saturday of the month from August to October.
The Sussex Wildlife Trust also include scenic tours to the castle in their guided strolls of the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.
Insider’s Idea: There’s no car access to Camber Castle, which is only obtainable by foot. Load comfy footwear and also intend on an easy and enjoyable expedition through the neighboring fields. Simply watch where you tip!
11. Discover Bodiam Castle
Bodiam Castle lies 13 miles north west of Rye and also takes about 25 minutes to reach by auto. Although not technically in the area, exploring this historic place is a prominent point to do in Rye. Well maintained as for ruins go, this 14th-century marvel offers guests a fantastic glimpse right into medieval life.
Wind your means up and down the spiral staircases (beware, the steps are quite narrow); check out the battlements; see the large, carp-filled moat; as well as look at the portcullis in the lodge prior to roaming the lush grounds.
Kids adore it below, which is easy to understand, as the castle uses frequent child-centered programs (like story time, archery, crafts, missions, bat pursues, and armor screens).
When you’re really feeling hungry, check out the Castle View coffee shop for an outing or treat, or take pleasure in a cream tea in the Wharf Tea Room.
Things To Do In Rye
A lovely fanciful town, Rye is a stunning spot to delight in a short vacation in East Sussex. Crooked Tudor buildings, charming rock streets, and intense flower blossoms make it difficult to dislike this enchanting area, which is why many select to spend a weekend break vacation below. As well as despite its little size, Rye supplies visitors an abundance of fun tourist attractions as well as things to do.
Quickly obtainable from London (it exists about an hour away), Rye lies at the assemblage of the Rother, Tillingham, and Brede rivers. The town is steeped in background, and lots of residues of its middle ages heyday can be discovered in its damages, while stories of its exciting past as a smuggling port cut loose.
When checking out, you’ll locate a multitude of vintage and diverse shops as well as some rave-worthy restaurants lining the secret flows, winding laneways, and also cobbled courses that make this town so tempting. It’s simple to lose yourself to Rye’s beauty, and we don’t indicate just literally.
Plan your sightseeing and tour with our listing of the leading things to do in Rye.
1. Go Bird-Watching at Rye Harbour Nature Get
Nature lovers will love Rye Harbour Nature Get, particularly those with a propensity for bird-watching. The over 1,000-acre reserve contains whatever from marshland to sand to timbers. And also it flaunts over 4,000 species of animals.
Pick from among five comfortable bird-watching huts (a.k.a. hides) to take pleasure in magnificent landscapes. The one closest to Camber Castle never ever lets down. This is without a doubt one of one of the most prominent points to do in Rye.
Or, trek along one of the many walkways leading you around salt marshes, saline lagoons, and also large grassland. The primary courses are flat and also large, that make them ideal for those pushing a stroller, wheelchair, or bike.
The Rye Harbour Discovery Centre is readied to open up in April 2020, which will add a cozy as well as comfortable area to kick back, learn, and observe animals.
Insider’s Idea: Load binoculars and a video camera with a great zoom, and also plan on spending at the very least a few hrs at this all-natural heaven.
2. Check Out Rye Castle Museum as well as Climb Up Ypres Tower
Rye Castle Gallery is among the best tourist attractions in Rye It consists of 2 websites: The Ypres Tower and also East Street, which is a brief leave. Ypres tower was appointed by Henry III as part of a protection approach versus French intruders as well as was later utilized as the town’s prison.
The Women’s Tower, which relaxes a small stairs in the garden, worked as the country’s very first jail for women. The views from the terrace are wonderful.
The East Street website, which opened in 1999, gives site visitors with a chance to check out the gallery’s collections and learn a lot more about the history of Rye as well as the Ypres Tower. It’s open from April 1st to October 31st.
Both places are kid-friendly and make discovering history a pleasure for those of any type of age. At both places, kids are motivated to get up close as well as touch much of the displays, including interactive maps and a location where they can try their hands at pulling a middle ages arrow and raising a hefty sword.
3. Admire the View from the Parish Church of St. Mary, Rye.
The magnificent Parish Church of St. Mary, Rye, likewise called the Cathedral of East Sussex, has actually enhanced the hill on which it means over 900 years. Its high apex can be seen from miles away, welcoming site visitors to enter its solemn rock wall surfaces.
The church has the requisite stained-glass windows and also stunning stonework of other churches developed around the exact same time. What sets this gorgeous church apart, however, is the remarkable St. Mary’s Tower.
A climb steep, narrow actions to its leading offers site visitors a breathtaking view. The expansive vista over the cemetery, community, and countryside below deserves the climb if you can make it. And also, the tower is a prominent area for marriage propositions, so you may witness history in the making.
Insider’s suggestion: Keep your eye out for the Rye Water House, an old cistern (a.k.a. water storage tank) that depends on the churchyard.
4. Take Photos on Mermaid Road
Mermaid street is just one of one of the most photographed streets in England and one of the best destinations in Rye. Cobbled and lined with uneven wood houses rupturing with blooms, it’s very easy to see why.
Walking along this winding laneway transportations site visitors back in time to a fairy-tale land with deals with around every edge. It runs in between Hair and West Streets in the old town and is house to among southeast England’s most renowned Inns-The Mermaid Inn. This quality III-listed historical Tudor inn is adorable, in spite of its history as a haunt for smugglers.
Likewise here is the family-run The Mermaid Road Café, a perfect spot to kick back, indulge in a cake, or full English breakfast, and people see (either from a window seat inside or an outdoor table). While straying the street, take note of the fun home names-from “The House With 2 Front Doors” to “The House Reverse,” they’re delightful and one-of-a-kind.
Insider’s Suggestion: Mermaid road can be steep sometimes, and also the patched rocks get slippery when damp. Leave the heels in your home in favor of comfortable walking shoes.
5. Excursion Lamb Residence
When residence to authors Henry James as well as E.F. Benson, Lamb Residence offered much ideas for their renowned jobs. The little yet royal home can be acknowledged in James’ description of Mr. Langdon’s home in An Awkward Age. As well as it is among the most preferred visitor destinations in Rye.
While James did much of his writing in the Green Room, he invested a lot of his summer seasons operating in the Yard Space. Unfortunately, this was ruined throughout a bombing raid in 1940. Today, visitors can see the Green Room firsthand, or visit the entrance hall, oak parlor, dining room, and also King’s area, to name a few. Thankfully for those craving an inside peek into the writers’ minds, Lamb Residence was lately revamped to permit more accessibility to their most precious spaces.
Expert’s Suggestion: Take pleasure in a cuppa at the brand-new Yard Cafeteria. Obtain a publication and also enjoy a few moments of privacy with a slice of cake. It’s only open from Fridays to Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.
6. Play in the Browse at Camber Sands
Bordering Rye Harbour Nature Reserve on one side as well as RSPB Dungeness on the various other, Camber Sands isn’t technically in Rye. Yet it will just take around 5 minutes to drive below.
This preferred sandy beach is a sanctuary for English weekenders from Rye and London, specifically in the summer. While visitors flock right here for a relaxing reprieve loaded with crashing waves and also miles of soft golden sand, it’s the verdant sand dunes that truly take your breath away.
This is the longest (as well as just) dune system in East Sussex. Whether you’re seeking to take in the rays, walk along the coastline, or swim in the sea (brrr), Camber Sands is a remarkable holiday spot. Plus, lifeguards are constantly at work, and toilet and also giving ins are available close by.
Expert’s Suggestion: Be cautious of the trends, which move quickly. The currents can be rather strong when the trend goes in and out.
7. Walk through the Landgate Arc
Built in 1329, this old arch, flanked by two large drum towers, was created to aid fortify Rye and act as the community’s only link to the mainland. At the time, Rye was an island, and also eviction offered the only access to land at high tide.
As soon as accompanied by a drawbridge, portcullis, and also 3 other portals, this remarkable rock arch as well as its clock (included 1862) are all that stays. The Sandgate, Baddings Gateway, and also Postern Gateway were eliminated after experiencing substantial damage.
The Landgate is a Provided Grade 1 Ancient Monolith as well as an extremely well-known attribute of the older section of town. Despite its age as well as somewhat narrow opening, vehicles are still able to drive under the arc, which is four feet greater than it was originally due to the roadway being decreased in time.
8. Feel Huge in the Rye Heritage Centre
If you have actually ever before wanted to feel like Gulliver in Lilliput, head to the Rye Heritage Centre. Home to a to-scale, hand-made design of Victorian Rye, this unique facility uses site visitors a remarkable peek into life as it was lived throughout this moment. It’s not huge, so you will not require to invest more than a hr right here.
Devoted to making learning enjoyable, the center’s Story of Rye noise as well as light show overviews guests via 700 years of the town’s background. Likewise on-site is a collection of Old Pier gallery games that extremely still function.
The present store sells a variety of gifts to take home, along with area maps, art, and other fun presents. Prior to you leave, reserve a guided strolling trip.
9. Follow the Path at the Royal Armed Force Canal
Really feel any type of residual stress and anxiety melt away as you stray along the soothing Royal Armed force Canal. A scenic walking as well as biking path makes it easy to comply with the water’s training course as it moves from Iden Lock to the Appledore Dam.
In addition to acting as a well-trodden walking path, the canal flaunts a fascinating background. It was hand dug in the very early 19th century to act as a defensive barrier between the communities of Hythe and also Winchelsea.
The canal is currently made use of to manage water levels in the surrounding marsh and also to assist shield the region from harmful floods. A haven for wildlife, this is a remarkable area to enjoy bird-watching.
The Royal Military Canal is equipped with fish consisting of carp, perch, bream, and also pike, yet you’ll require an authorization from the Rother Fishery Association (RFA) to attempt your luck at capturing one.
10. Hike to Camber Castle
This one-of-a-kind fortress, additionally known as Winchelsea Castle, was constructed in the early 16th century by Henry VIII. He appointed the stronghold to secure the surrounding shore from French intruders.
Initially, the castle was composed only of the weapons, which the questionable king understood wasn’t sufficient to provide defense. Over time, even more sections were developed, producing the concentric circles that compose this interesting fortress.
Found a mile from Rye, the vibrant, stone castle shows up wonderfully from a lavish landscape peppered with lamb as well as cattle. For those desire a better look, prepare your go to very carefully. The castle is just open the initial Saturday of the month from August to October.
The Sussex Wildlife Trust also include scenic tours to the castle in their guided strolls of the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.
Insider’s Idea: There’s no car access to Camber Castle, which is only obtainable by foot. Load comfy footwear and also intend on an easy and enjoyable expedition through the neighboring fields. Simply watch where you tip!
11. Discover Bodiam Castle
Bodiam Castle lies 13 miles north west of Rye and also takes about 25 minutes to reach by auto. Although not technically in the area, exploring this historic place is a prominent point to do in Rye. Well maintained as for ruins go, this 14th-century marvel offers guests a fantastic glimpse right into medieval life.
Wind your means up and down the spiral staircases (beware, the steps are quite narrow); check out the battlements; see the large, carp-filled moat; as well as look at the portcullis in the lodge prior to roaming the lush grounds.
Kids adore it below, which is easy to understand, as the castle uses frequent child-centered programs (like story time, archery, crafts, missions, bat pursues, and armor screens).
When you’re really feeling hungry, check out the Castle View coffee shop for an outing or treat, or take pleasure in a cream tea in the Wharf Tea Room.