A Short Guide to the Best of Rye, A Delightful Day Trip from London
Last Updated on 1st July 2024 by Sophie Nadeau
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A seaside town in Sussex rich with history, explore the cobblestone streets and historic inns, where smugglers and their secrets are stowed away in the town of Rye! Charming, delightful and timber-framed, here’s your brief guide on the best things to do in Rye and how to visit the town as a day trip from London.
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Where is Rye?
Rye is a town in the Rother district of East Sussex, England. Situated just over an hour train ride from central London and around two miles from the sea, at the confluence of three rivers: the Rother, the Tillingham and the Brede, where the English Channel is at its narrowest. It has an estimated population of near to 5,000 people.
History of Rye
Rye is a seaside town steeped in history, and smugglers’ secrets, situated on the south coast of England. Due to the town’s location, Rye has been at the centre of several invasions and floodings, but is also known for its smuggling activities and maritime trade.
Smuggling was first believed to be rife in Rye during the 13th century when Edward I introduced the customs system, and of course, thanks to Rye’s location it made the town an idyllic spot for these kinds of activities.
The main kinds of smuggling included people hiding money or precious items like silver in the wool or hale bales to export them from land to land.
Historically, Rye served as a crucial port town, named as one of the original Cinque Ports (pronounced ‘Sink’ Ports, these were a confederation of five harbours in the UK), however, by the 18th century, the port declined due to changes in the coastline and the silting of the River Rother.
Today, Rye draws visitors in for its well-preserved medieval architecture, quaint cobbled streets and important historical landmarks. The town’s history is reflected in its heritage sites, including the famous Mermaid Inn.
Best things to do in Rye
Even though Rye is a pretty small market town, there are a surprising number of delightful attractions and things to do and you could easily fill a long weekend if you’re the kind of traveller who prefers to take their time. If you’re pressed for time, then all of the major attractions can be covered over the course of an afternoon.
Enjoy a drink at the Mermaid Inn
Sitting at the heart of Rye’s historic part of town, the Mermaid Inn is a unique building that is over 600 years old, with a cellar that dates back to 1156. A beautiful timber framed structure that was rebuilt in 1420 after the original site was burnt to the ground by French raiders in 1377.
The Mermaid Inn has strong ties to the Hawkhurt Gang, a notorious criminal organisation of smugglers, who used the inn as a stronghold and for the fact that there are a myriad of underground secret tunnels that connect the inn to other places within the town.
Today, visitors are welcome to step inside this extraordinarily old building which houses a hotel, restaurant, a Tudor Room (reserved for private functions and bookings) and the Giants Fireplace Bar (which of course has a roaring fire during the colder seasons).
The hotel also boasts being visited by many a famous face, from celebrities and artists, including the likes of Queen Elizabeth and the Queen Mother herself, its charming features and historical past draw in people from all corners of the world.
See the Landgate
This unique structure comprises of a central chamber over the arch and two accompanying towers. It dates all the way back to 1329 when Edward III granted Rye further grants to fortify the town against would-be invaders.
Although there would have once been four such gates guarding the town, as well as a portcullis and drawbridge, today only the Landgate survives. Unfortunately you can’t visit the interior of the Landgate unless you opt to stay there as it has been transformed into a holiday let.
Wander the cobbled lanes
Simply wandering around the quaint historic lanes and soaking up the ambience of this charming town is one of the best things to do. Seeing what you stumble across and taking a reflective moment to spy out the hidden architectural features of the heritage facades that you might not otherwise notice. One of the prettiest pockets to visit is Church Square.
Go shopping
As well as the usual high street shops that you would expect to see in any British market town, Rye also has some more unusual independent boutiques which are worth checking out:
- Simply Rye Limited – This cute gift shop sells coastal gift ideas, jewellery, accessories, homewares, greeting cards and plenty more.
- Forget Me Not Rye – A unique gift shop where you can pick up a souvenir or buy a present for a loved one.
- Ethel Loves Me – Selling original artwork by local artists, small handmade gifts and unique treasures, this shop is both a store and art gallery.
- Rae Store – A café and shop, serving takeaway coffee and selling vintage homewares.
- Eddie Franks Rye – An independent men’s clothes shop stocking lifestyle brands.
St Mary’s Church Bell Tower
St Mary’s Church is a 12th-century treasure that sits atop the hill on which the old town stands. One of the best things about a visit to this church is to climb its bell tower, which boasts captivating views over Rye and the countryside beyond. Not just a pretty view, you can also see the mechanism of the oldest working church turret clock in the UK!
Rye Heritage Centre
To learn more about local history and experience the “story of Rye”, be sure to visit the Rye Heritage Centre. A place which details to visitors over 750 years of the town’s history through and immersive sound and light show, small exhibitions and even the possibility to see a re-enactment of the smugglers of Rye and their illicit tradings back in the day.
Visit the port area
One of the best things about Rye is that thanks to its confluence of rivers and port area, there are many waterside viewing spots. Here you can spy out boats bobbing by. Though the port is not in full use as it once was, you can still see a hive of activity through the yachts , a fishing fleet and some commercial shipping that dock here.
There’s also a small café where you can sit, sip on a coffee, and soak up views of the harbour front.
Ypres Tower
Also known as Rye Castle, Ypres Tower doesn’t have an exact date of construction but is believed to have been built in either the 13th or 14th centuries, since it has been designated as an ancient monument.
As Rye became one of the Cinque Ports, it required defensive measures to defend the town from attacks from across the channel. Serving as a fort, private dwellings, turned prison and then finally a museum, this historic site has seen quite a colourful history.
Today, visitors can explore the collection of locally made pottery and embroidery that reflect the history and life of times gone by in Rye, as well as medieval artefacts, immersive activities and town maps.
Camber Castle
Formerly known as Winchelsea Castle, this was one of Henry VIII’s ‘device forts’ built to protect the Sussex coast of England against any French attacks after the king’s decision to break from the Roman Catholic Church. The circular tower was originally built between 1512-1514, until later when the site was later expanded and fortified.
Today visitors can explore the ruins of the defensive castle. Please note, it’s around a 1 mile walk from the car park to the site.
Chapel of St. Anthony of Padua
One of the more hidden gems of Rye which is free to visit and is open to the public throughout the week is a small chapel dedicated to St Anthony of Padua. This small ecclesiastical building was constructed between 1927 and 1929 to replace a former church on site.
Rye Harbour Beach
This small pebbled beach is peaceful and offers a spot for you to be close to the sea and understand the town’s rich history of proximity to the water. Home to a renowned nature reserve, this stretch of coastline is considered an important conservation site of interest.
Despite Rye being one of the more popular places to visit in the east of England, there still remain a number of off the beaten path spots that a lot of people don’t know about.
For example, you can spy an old water pump on a side street close to the church and if you wander away from highlights such as Mermaid Street, then you’ll find beautiful angles that are rarely captured on social media.
Where to eat in Rye
Spoilt for choice, there are plenty of cosy cafés, historic pubs and restaurants all brimming with delicious food you should try. Here are just a few top spots to consider when visiting Rye (based on web-reviews):
The Fig – This independent lively café serves food inspired from all over the world, focusing on a health-forward menu, it’s the perfect spot to grab a breakfast to fuel yourself for the day!
Landgate Bistro – A modern bistro that prides itself on creating dishes from local and foraged ingredients. Serving British classics with a twist, this modern and cosy restaurant offers diners an experience to rememember.
Marco’s – This Mediterranean neighbourhood restaurant is situated in the heart of town and customers have reviewed that they “travel to Rye to eat here”.
How to visit Rye as a day trip from London
Rye is an easy day trip to take from London, and the easiest way to get there is by taking public transport. On average the total journey time takes 1 hour 10 minutes and requires one change.
The best route is to get the train from London St Pancras International to Ashford International (40 minutes) and then change here and take the train to the stop Rye (Sussex) (20 minutes). Ticket costs vary but typically fall around £30, it’s much cheaper to book in advance.
Where to stay in Rye
Although the majority of the town’s main sights can easily be seen in an afternoon, Rye makes for an idyllic place to spend a long leisurely weekend and soak up the charm and history of this beautiful pocket of the UK. That being said, on average it is definitely on the more costly side for prices per night. Here are a few suggestions of where to stay (based on web reviews):
Jeakes House – 16th century and covered in ivy, this upscale B&B is a 4-minute walk from Ypres Tower and has traditionally decorated and refined rooms, and plush furniture, and offers a breakfast served in their grand dining room daily. Check prices and availability here.
Rye Windmill B&B – Just a 3-minute walk from the town’s train station, this B&B is set within a windmill next to the River Tillingham. Offering a unique experience, with the option to upgrade your room to have a balcony if you wish. Check prices and availability here.
Mermaid Inn – As mentioned, this is a place rich with history…but is also supposedly haunted by the previous smugglers who stayed here, so not for the superstitious! Nearing closer to the side of luxury, the hotel has a fancy restaurant, rooms with charming features and boasts picturesque views over Rye. Check prices and availability here.
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