What to do in Rye
15 Best Things to Do and See in Rye 2024
Last updated: Jun 30, 2024
Each month we take a look at the most popular attractions and activities in and around Rye and here are the latest top 15 things to do according to our visitors in ...
The Mermaid Inn
In Rye
01797 223 065
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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 range of accommodation including rooms with four-poster beds and fascinating secret passages. The lounge bar boasts of one of … more
St Mary's Church Tower
In Rye
01797 222 318
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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 year as many times as you like. Terms and Conditions apply. The Tower is open almost every day of … more
Lamb House
In Rye
01797 222 909
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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 Golden Bowl. In the Summer months James liked to use the Garden Room to dictate to his secretary. Sadly … more
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
Rye Harbour 1.9 miles from Rye
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The Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is approximately 1.4 miles south east of Rye, signposted off the A259. There is a free car park at Rye Harbour. There is a network of foot paths that allow the reserve to be visited from Rye and Winchelsea on foot. Within the reserve there are five hides (with wheelchair … more
Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin
In Rye
01797 222 318
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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 the town was looted and set on fire by French invaders the church was extensively damaged. The roof fell … more
Rye Harbour Beach
Rye Harbour 2.2 miles from Rye
The beach at Rye Harbour is a picturesque and unspoiled coastal stretch situated at the mouth of the river Rother at Rye Harbour along to Winchelsea Beach to the west. Generally a pebble beach (although there are sandy areas to be found), the beach is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot … more
Rye Bay
In Rye
Rye Bay is nestled in the scenic county of East Sussex. Covering some 91 square kilometres of fantastic views, there is more than ample reason to visit Rye Bay. Miles of unspoilt coastline adjoin Rye Bay (visit Camber Sands; the only sand dunes in the county for a proper Sussex sea-side day out!) but there … more
Mary Stanford Lifeboat House
Rye Harbour 2.1 miles from Rye
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The Mary Stanford Lifeboat House is a historic building located in Rye Harbour, East Sussex, England. This iconic structure serves as a memorial to the tragic events that unfolded during a daring rescue attempt in 1928. The lifeboat house is a poignant reminder of the brave crew of the Mary Stanford lifeboat, who lost their … more
Rye Museum: Ypres Tower
In Rye
01797 226 728
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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 dwelling, a prison and a mortuary. It is the oldest building–except for St Mary’s church–open to the public in … more
Rye Heritage Centre
In Rye
01797 226 696
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The perfect way to discover Rye. Rye Heritage Centre provides an ideal introduction to the town with the Story of Rye sound and light show featuring the famous Rye Town Model. Historic Guided Walking Tours are available to book and there are displays of local history to enhance your visit. Admission to the centre is … more
1066 Country Walk
In Rye
Enjoy the exhilarating 1066 Country Walk from or to Rye. The whole walk to Pevensey takes four days, allowing time to visit the places of interest on the way, or you can go from Rye to Battle or vice versa in two days. Great Oak Walks will organise quality accommodation in places of character for … more
Church of the Holy Spirit
Rye Harbour 1.3 miles from Rye
01797 222 318
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In the churchyard stands the memorial to the men of Rye Harbour who died when the Mary Stanford lifeboat sank in 1928. Services at Rye Harbour Church are usually on the 3rd Sunday of the month at 5pm for Evening Prayer. Please check the parish website for other services and events.
Gun Gardens
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 well worth a visit.
Rye Sports Centre
In Rye
01797 224 747
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Modern facilities, friendly staff and great value … all at Freedom Leisure Rye! Situated just behind the railway station, parking is free to Centre users. Please collect a parking ticket from reception
Rye Museum: East Street
In Rye
01797 226 728
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Rye Museum has two sites in the town: Ypres Tower and East Street which is the main site for exhibits and public events such as talks and coffee mornings. It houses changing exhibitions concerning different aspects of Rye life. The latest of these features Ryes connections to Royal Weddings. A major exhibit features Captain Pugwash, … more
What's new?
Soap and Salvation
A place to discover vintage and antique homewares, books, art and objects.
Listed in: Antique Shops
Featured Links
Jeake's House
Award winning 17th century town house in medieval cobbled street
Cadborough Cottages
Walking distance from Rye. Ample parking. Peaceful location.
What's on in Rye
Rye Arts & Crafts Fair
, 10:00am - 4:00pm
Rye Community Centre, Rye
Category: Shopping Fairs and Markets
Message Board
Are you over 65 and have had counselling via video?
I am conducting some important research into peoples lived experience of psychological therapy taking place via video and what this … more
Walking Tour
Please can anyone tell me who to contact to book a place on the Friends of Tilling tour relating to … more