B Y S A M A N T H A V A N D E P O L L

I N T R O

So you want to go to rye

Well first and foremost let me congratulate you on that excellent decision.

Nestled on a hilltop and just a stones throw away from the sea sits the quaint market town of Rye. If you're looking for a charming and quintessially English getaway, then Rye is just that.

In fairness I'm a little biased, being fortunate enough to have Rye on my doorstep, its somewhere I spend a great deal of time and I love dearly.

Rye lies on the border of East Sussex, surrounded by rolling countryside, the town itself is famous for its charming cobbled streets, higgledy piggledy half timber houses, independent businesses and cosy tea rooms.

History

As one of the best preserved medieval towns in England, history runs deep through the veins of Rye. Between the 13th-18th century it was dubbed the ‘smuggling capital of England’ and a famous port among pirates. The corrupt town officials usually turned a blind eye to the happenings as they were often paid off and benefited from the service the smugglers provided.

Today Rye has preserved its distinct old town charm and remained true to its traditional medieval roots. Time has stood still and even with its quirky English character and beautiful unique architecture it has a healthy flow of tourism that doesn’t overwhelm the small town. Don’t get me wrong, Rye gets a fair amount of visitors throughout the year however if you go on a weekday or go in the morning it’ll be quiet and ideal for exploring.

W H A T T O D O

1. Wander the streets

Well first and foremost you have to just explore. Roam freely, get lost among the winding pretty streets.

Many of the roads and houses have so much history and the most charming names. Possibly the most famous of the all is Mermaid street, that iconic Rye street and most likely the first image that comes up when you google Rye.

From the top of the street your view to the bottom is met by a series of beautiful ivy covered fairytale like houses which only become even more heavenly when turned red during the autumn months. The mermaid inn peeking out from among the dense ivy is one of the most historical places in Rye and was once awash with pirates and smugglers hundreds of years ago.

TIP - Wear flats when visiting, the streets are beautiful but uneven and you'll break both your ankles if you wear heels.

2. St Mary’s church

The church in the square is the beating heart of Rye.

For over 900 years St Marys parish has served the community of Rye, this traditional little church sits on the highest point of Rye and hides the best kept secret with its incredible panoramic view from the steeple over the whole town. For a small donation you can climb the rickety winding staircases, through the bell tower to the top. When you get to the peak you’re met with 360 degree unparalleled views across Kent, Sussex and the Downs. You can see the whole of Rye and it's an absolute must when visiting. Last time I went, it was a foggy Autumn day and even then it was absolutely breathtaking.

Plus the square around the church. The prettiest of houses sit among this square. Although not large it’s a beautiful mish mash of different unique houses, covered in flowers and awash with history. In particular the peach house with climbing rose bushes out the front is my favourite.

3. High streets and local shops

The main highstreet of Rye is filled with independent businesses and unusual shops. It's the perfect place to enjoy a good cup of coffee and spot of shopping. .Perfect if you’re looking for some handmade high quality trinkets to take home. Byzantium. One of my favourite jewellery shops EVER. Sells all manor of gemstone and intricate silver jewellery. Its a great store to just get lost in.

4. Cobbles tearoom

If you want a traditional delicious English afternoon tea then this is your place. Tucked down a small lane lined with flowers, Cobbles tea room is a must when visiting Rye.

5. Globe Inn Marsh Pub

My favourite place to eat in the whole area. Their roasts are to die for and with over 50 different in house gins you really can’t go wrong. The interior is gorgeous and service great.

6. Knoops chocolate

If you're a chocolate lover then make sure to check out Ryes number one spot Knoops. Specialising in artisan hot chocolate, they have every variation and combination to suit your tastes.

7. The Winery

   
   

   This fantastic warehouse has been transformed into the ultimate wine bar, with wondrful local wines and great vibes, my fave stop in Rye!

   
   
   
   

   

   
   

8. The Fig & Whitehouse bakery

For a decent cup of coffee, slice of cake or tasty brunch then make sure to check out the Fig and Whitehouse bakery. Breakfasts to die for and a great selection of pastries as well as delicious coffee.

9. Dinner at Webbes

   
   
   
   

   You cant visit Rye without a stop at Webbes famous fish cafe, all the seafood is caught fresh everyday and the mussles are fantastic!

A little further out..

10. Camber sands

Camber Sands may just be one of the most special places the South East has to offer as well as being one of the best beaches in the UK. This naturally sandy beach stretches on for miles, with views across Dungeness. With its rolling sand dunes, wild grasses and abundant wildlife, It's the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon. Pop for lunch at the Clam in Camber and why not indulge in a few nights at one of the gorgeous beach houses? There is also a beautiful hotel and restaurant at the Gallivant just a short walk away from the beach.

11. Winchelsea

I absolutely adore Winchelsea, its a quiet little village just outside of Rye with a local market shop and village pub. The houses are stunning and during spring, when in bloom, it is reality one of the prettiest places to live in all of Sussex.

12. Dungeness

If you carry on from Camber and head South from Lydd you’ll find the only desert in the UK - Dungeness. While not the kind of desert you’d imagine, Dungeness is actually classified as a desert and wildlife reserve. Dungeness has a somewhat bleak beauty in its make up. The beautiful beach shacks among the abundant flora and fauna that grows wildly around the abandoned train tracks, all in the gaze of the black and white lighthouse that sits next to the now dormant nuclear power plant slowly being dismantled. Its honestly charming. The Pilot Inn is renowned for having the best fish and chips in all the South East, the fish shack is unmissable for its fresh fish sandwiches and you must check out the Derek Jamin house with it's unusual beach gardens - trust me you won’t be disappointed.

W H E R E T O S T A Y

Little lavender cottage

This beautiful whitewashed cottage is just a stones throw away from Rye in the quaint village of Iden. Lovingly refurbished but still full of character, this stunning property is the countryside English dream, with an abundance of flowers growing around it and a truly peaceful location. Ideal for families or couples, the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring.

The gallivant

A little further out by Camber beach sits the Gallivant. A beautiful hotel and restaurant with stylish rooms and fabulous food. The ultimate getaway by the sea and ideal if you're looking for some pampering.

The George in Rye

A beautiful central restaurant, bar and hotel gorgeously styled and full of character.