Rye in East Sussex Town Guide
What to do in Rye
15 Best Things to Do and See in Rye 2026
Last updated: 30th September 2026
Each month we look at visitor interest in attractions and activities in and around Rye. These are the latest top 15 things to do according to our visitors in .
The list is designed as a quick starting point for planning a visit: well-used landmarks, activities, historic places and local attractions that people have been looking at recently.
At a glance
- Best for
- Finding popular attractions and activities around Rye
- Area
- Rye, Rye Harbour
- Based on
- Recent visitor interest
- Updated
- 30th September 2026
- Places listed
- 15
Super Featured Listing
#1 In Rye
01797 223 065
One of England’s oldest and loveliest inns, with Norman cellars dating from 1156, the Mermaid, rebuilt in 1420, offers tradition and charm in abundance. A jewel in the crown of Rye, the inn has a wide … more
In Rye
01797 222 318
Climb the Church Tower for amazing views of Rye and the surrounding countryside! View the mechanism of the oldest working church turret clock in the UK. Gift Aiding your donation gives you free access for one … more
Rye Harbour 1.9 miles from Rye
In Rye
01797 222 318
For almost 900 years the Parish Church of Rye, dedicated to St Mary the Virgin, has dominated the hill on which the old town stands. It has stood through good times and bad. In 1377 when … more
Rye Harbour 2.2 miles from Rye
In Rye
01797 222 909
Lamb House was built in 1723 by James Lamb. Henry James leased the property and later purchased in 1899. It was here he wrote the Awkward Age, The Wings of the Dove, the Ambassadors and The … more
In Rye
The Gun Gardens are set in-front of the Ypres (Wipers) Tower and has a battery of cannons facing out to sea. The views over the river Rother and across to the sea and Romney Marsh are … more
In Rye
01797 226 728
The Rye Museum has two sites, the Ypres Tower (early 14th century) and the East Street site. The Tower has had many roles in its history from a fortification to protect the town, to a private … more
Super Featured Listing
#11 In Rye
01797 224 747
Modern facilities, friendly staff and great value … all at Rye Leisure Centre! Situated just behind the railway station, parking is free to Centre users. Please collect a parking ticket from reception
Super Featured Listing
#13 In Rye
01797 229 351
07951 688 974
Ebike Hire, Tour, Sales and Servicing shop in Rye, East Sussex. Great fun for all the family and furry friends. Electric bikes are available to hire from age 14. Hourly, half day and full day and … more
Super Featured Listing
#14 Rye Harbour 1.6 miles from Rye
07876 135 911
In Rye
Novelist, biographer, and benefactor of Rye. On mappandluciarye.uk there is a marvellous online tour of the various locations of Tilling shot in and around Rye. Edward Frederic Benson was born July 24, 1867 at Wellington College … more
What's new?
St Mary's Centre
St Mary’s Centre has two halls, a fully equipped catering kitchen and facilities for the disabled. The Main Hall is … more
Listed in: Community Centres
What's 🔥?
Rye National Town Crier Championships
, 11:00am - 3:30pm
Gun Gardens, Rye
Next event
Entertaining Mr Stone
, 8:00pm - 10:00pm
The Queen's Head Inn, Rye
Message Board
Rye Ladies Netball Club Query
Good evening, I am looking to join a local netball club. I haven’t played in years. I’m 57 years old, … more
Lost a white tote bag
Hello, I’ve lost a white tote bag yesterday with “Eataly” on it (with an analog camera and sunglasses in it). … more