A days stroll in quaint Rye
This picturesque hilltop town, with cobbled streets, fairy-tale houses and small independent shops makes the perfect place to experience England’s beauty. Rye is located only one hour from London, and brings out the true charm of a British village.
England’s best kept secret
Rye is an old port town located in East Sussex. Nestled between green hills and the English Canal, it is classified as a seaside town. But as the estuary gradually silted up, the hilltop town is now two miles from the coast. It is one of England’s best kept secrets and has been said to have seen it all over the years: invasions, smuggling, flooding and shipwrecks! In other words, a town full of history.
What to see and do
Start the day by entering the town through The Landgate. Built in 1329, this ancient arch is the last one standing of the four strengthening the town’s defences, centuries ago. At the time, Rye was an island, and the gate provided the only access to land at high tide. Today the Landgate is a Listed Grade 1 Ancient Monument and a beautiful sight.
A stroll along the Rye’s quaint streets is without doubt the primary activity when visiting. It is a very small town with an array of half-timbered houses which are a delight to see, and everywhere you will find quirky antique, art and gift shops.
In the middle of the city you will find the magnificent Parish Church of St. Mary, also known as the Cathedral of East Sussex. It has graced the hilltop on which it stands for over 900 years. Located right next to it is Rye Castle, better known as Ypres Tower. Built in 1249, the castle used to be a defence against attacks by the French. The grade I listed building is now home to Rye Castle Museum. There you can learn all about the history of the town as well as see some medieval artefacts. The castle had a beautiful little medieval garden too.
Where to eat in Rye
The Fig
The Fig opened back in 2015 and is an independent cafe serving fresh, healthy food and locally roasted coffee in a relaxed environment. It is a modern space where you can enjoy a great coffee and the best of British produce. Vegetarian friendly as well.
Corridor Café Coffee Shop
Located in the same street as The Fig you’ll find this quirky little coffee shop where you can enjoy the view of Rye Castle from the back when ordering your coffee or freshly baked scones.
The Mermaid Inn
This wonderful historic building dates back to 1156 (the original cellars are still there), but was rebuilt in 1420 after the Town of Rye was burned to the ground by French Raiders on June 22nd, 1377. It is a charming, quirky hotel with a lovely bar where you can enjoy good drinks and food. A unique experience in this 600-year-old Inn, that was even visited by Queen Elizabeth I, back in 1573.
The Apothecary
You can’t really visit a small, British town without a cup of tea and some good old fashioned cake. The Apothecary is the perfect place for exactly that. The red and wooden décor and bookshelves covered with old classics, makes it one of the most authentic coffee houses in Rye. They serve all types of goodies, but we recommend a piece of the classic Victoria Sponge and the coffee and walnut cake!
What to keep an eye out for
Mermaid Street
All the streets in Rye are both beautiful and picturesque, but the most charming of all must be Mermaid Street. The half-timbered and Georgian houses are all decorated with flowers, some have cute little signs on their doors and the street must be one of the most photographed streets in England.
The Cobbles Tea Room
Nestled in the heart of Rye, The Cobbles Tea Room has been known for over 60 years as the town's premier traditional tea room. The perfect place to enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea. If there is no room out front, make sure to check out their back yard.
Tiny Bookshop Rye
A tiny second hand bookstore where every shelf is worth discovering. The small space is filled with old, smelly books to admire, browse and buy.
Knoops Chocolate
For all chocolate lovers out there, Knoops is loved by the locals and is the perfect place to refuel. If you aren’t already, get ready to become a full-on chocolate addict after visiting.
Lamb House
Once home to authors Henry James and E.F. Benson, which provided much inspiration for their famous work. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Rye.
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
This is a must see for all nature enthusiasts. The over 1,000-acre reserve consists of everything from marshland to sand to woods. And it boasts over 4,000 species of animals.
How to get there
High-speed trains run from London St Pancras to Ashford International with a journey time of 38 minutes. A further train to Rye takes about 21 minutes which makes the historic town the perfect option for a day trip from London. Check out Trainline for the best train deals.
If keen on seeing more, take a look at my video from Rye here.
Lots of love from Henriette Sophia
