If you fancy taking a trip back in time, there’s no need to hunt around for a time machine. Instead, head out for the day from London to East Sussex, where you’ll find the gloriously charming town of Rye. It’s a stunning place that looks like it’s come straight out of the pages of a fairytale, and is full of history and intrigue.
The hilltop town dates back to Roman times, when it was an important town for commerce and shipping. As time went on, the town became an important defence port, but was also a hotbed for smuggling and lawlessness. In fact, the town is full of secret passages that smugglers once used to cart their contraband around. Some of them even connect the local pubs to each other!
Nowadays, it’s a stunning spot to visit on a day trip. Plus, the town’s colourful history and preserved appearance make it a common site for film and TV productions looking for authentic settings.
What to do in Rye
Across its cobbled streets and within the surrounding areas, there is plenty to explore in Rye. But the very first thing you’ll probably want to do is find the famed Mermaid Street, which just might be one of the most photographed roads in the country. The cobbled street is lined with historic wonky houses that make for a glorious vista – and the slight incline of the street means you can get a gorgeous shot of the sun peeking over the rows of houses.
Afterwards, be sure to check out St Mary’s Church Tower, which boasts stunning panoramic views of Rye. A visit to Lamb House is also essential – to see a slice of life as it once was in Rye, and explore the town’s literary connections.
Rye is also home to the Rye Museum, spread across two sites (including an early 14th-century tower). There, guests can learn even more about Rye’s past through preserved features and recreations as well as interactive exhibitions.
And then, there are Rye’s many celebrated beaches…
By the water at Rye
Since Rye’s history is so intertwined with the water, why not head to the beach while you’re there? The Rye Harbour Nature Reserve presents a stunning display of unspoiled wetland and wildlife. Or you can head straight to Rye Harbour Beach to spend some time by the water.
Nearby Camber Sands is a must-visit, too, and is home to some delightful sand dunes, which make it one of the country’s most gorgeous beaches. Part of the beach has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest, while the rest of it is protected as a Site of Nature Conservation Importance. What that results in is a gorgeous, unspoiled spot that stretches out before you when you visit.
It’s a beach that makes the trip to Rye worthwhile alone, even without everything else the town has to offer.
Getting there
The easiest way to get to Rye is to take the train out of St Pancras International, with one change at Ashford International. This will take you just over an hour in total.
If travelling by car, it will take between 90 minutes and 2 hours to drive down from London.
Upon arriving, Rye is easy to walk around, but it’s best to wear sensible shoes due to the many cobbled streets and lanes.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to book your ticket and head on down Rye-way to explore the cobbled streets and fairytale lanes.
