Stylish cobbled citadel
A medieval citadel huddled against invaders and the sea, Rye reveals its history gently. Today it’s home to a myriad of art, curiosities and cosy pubs, as well as modern boutique hotels and contemporary restaurants serving the best Sussex has to offer, from land and sea. Built on smuggled secrets and timeless tales, Rye has nooks and crannies to explore and distant views across Romney Marsh to ponder.
Mermaid Street ,which is one of the main routes into the citadel of Rye, is one of the most photographed streets in Britain and is the perfect location from which to explore Rye. One of the best preserved medieval towns in England, Rye is home to the impressive Norman church of St Mary’s, a rich selection of specialist shops and a thriving fishing fleet. Camber Castle, built by Henry VIII is located in the dramatic Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.
Rye was once surrounded on three sides by the sea and its maritime heritage dates back to Norman times. To defend it against frequent attacks from the French, Rye became an ‘antient town’ of the powerful Cinque Ports Confederation.
Visit the Rye Museum which has sites at East Street and the Ypres Tower, the second oldest building in Rye open to the public, built in the early 14th century and part of the town’s defensive walls. Take time to discover its architectural treasures and narrow passageways.
Climb the tower of St Mary’s Parish Church for fine views to Rye Harbour Nature Reserve and the beautiful hilltop town of Winchelsea, with its maze of medieval wine cellars.
Rye has always been a magnet for writers and artists. Lamb House, a National Trust property, was once the home of Henry James and later E.F.Benson, creator of the Mapp and Lucia books. The artists Paul Nash, Edward Burra and Captain Pugwash creator John Ryan all lived in Rye.
