Rye in East Sussex Town Guide
What to do in Rye
15 Best Things to Do and See in Rye 2026
Last updated: 31st July 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
- 31st July 2026
- Places listed
- 15
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 2.2 miles from Rye
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
Super Featured Listing
#4 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
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
Super Featured Listing
#6 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
Rye Harbour 1.9 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
In Rye
07544 229 409
The Aubrey Halls is a new automotive destination – the first of its kind in the South East. The Aubrey Halls features two unique spaces – The Motoring Hall and The Market Hall (coming in 2026) … more
Super Featured Listing
#14 Rye Harbour 1.6 miles from Rye
07876 135 911
Super Featured Listing
#15 Rye Harbour 0.7 miles from Rye
01797 229 351
07951 688 974
What's new?
Rye British Legion
Rye & District Branch of the Royal British Legion was formed in the 1920’s and now meets in March, June, … more
Listed in: Charities
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