Discover Rye: History, Gardens and Coastal Scenery

Rye offers travellers a range of options when planning a stay: medieval architecture, a church and town museum, gardens, and coastal scenery east of the old town. If you are looking for a hotel in Rye, you can first decide whether your stay will focus mainly on the town’s attractions, a guided tour of medieval Rye, or Camber Sands. History and views are the focus at Ypres Tower; Camber Sands offers a distinct landscape east of the town.

Ypres Tower and herb garden

Ypres Tower, also known as Rye Castle, is a 13th-century tower that once guarded the harbour. Visitors can climb the tower; from the top, there are views across Romney Marsh. A medieval herb garden is located in the former practice yard of Rye Castle. Those interested in Rye will find here a historic connection to the harbour, a viewpoint and a garden. Check the latest visitor information for tower access before your trip.

Town museum and guided walks

Rye Town Museum is located at 3 East Street. Rye Heritage Centre features immersive displays based on the Rye Town Model. The centre also offers a 20-minute introduction to Rye’s history, illustrated using the model. For a different way to explore medieval Rye, there are guided walks led by an experienced guide. They cover historic streets, landmarks and stories.

The formats have different focuses: the introduction provides a clear timeframe for getting started with Rye’s history, while the walk focuses on streets and landmarks in the urban setting. If you plan to see one of the displays or join a guided tour, check the latest programme details and booking information in advance.

St Mary's Church and Lamb House

Rye Parish Church is dedicated to St Mary the Virgin and has stood on the hill where the old town is built for more than 900 years. Visitors can climb the church tower and see its eight bells. The church is open daily except Christmas Day: from 9:15 am to 5:15 pm in summer and from 9:15 am to 4:15 pm in winter. Check the opening arrangements before your visit; it is also advisable to check in advance about access to the tower.

Lamb House has a walled garden with roses, lilies, spring bulbs and numerous perennials. From Rye main railway station, you can reach the house via a short uphill walk. If you plan to walk from the station, take the ascent into account.

Camber Sands east of Rye

Camber Sands lies east of the old town of Rye. The beach stretches for more than two miles, with large areas of golden sand. It is also home to the only dune area in East Sussex, providing valuable habitat for many animals and plants. This makes for a clear distinction when planning your trip: Rye’s attractions on one hand, and the beach and dune area east of the town on the other.

Events throughout the year

In November, Rye Bonfire Night includes a torchlight procession, a bonfire, fireworks and the burning of boats on the town’s salt marshes. The event represents a centuries-old local tradition. If you would like to plan your trip around it, check the specific event dates in advance.

The Rye Bay Scallop Festival takes place every February. Restaurants in the region showcase the local catch in creative dishes and tastings. The festival is explicitly regional in scope, so its offerings should not be understood as an event confined to a single venue. For this event too, it is worth checking the dates before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Ticehurst, West Hoathly, Brighton, Alfriston, Battle, Northiam, Eastbourne, Ditchling.

For the broader travel overview: East Sussex.