Once a crucial defensive point on England’s south coast, this hilltop town was surrounded by sea. Today, the 1.5-mile river from Rye to the coast is home to the local fishing fleet.
Rye, nestled in East Sussex, boasts ancient buildings, cobbled streets, and secret passages that regularly draw tourists and film crews seeking historical settings for period productions. The town has been a haven for authors, musicians, artists, and celebrities, but it also serves as an excellent day trip destination or a base for exploring the surrounding areas.
Recently, I found myself drawn to Rye after spotting certain streets on TikTok and questioning their existence, as they seemed straight out of a fairytale.
The journey from London took approximately an hour and a half, and we had no trouble finding parking, although we did arrive quite early.
A short uphill walk led us to the main cobbled street, brimming with boutique stores, cafes, and restaurants.
The town was picturesque and easy to navigate, offering stunning views at every turn. Mermaid Street, famed for its charming half-timbered houses, was the primary reason for my visit to Rye.
Despite being busy with tourists even around 9am, the iconic cobbled street was easy to locate and absolutely breathtaking.
As one of England’s most photographed streets, it houses the renowned Mermaid Inn, a historic inn steeped in rich history.
Dating back to the 12th century, this former smugglers’ haunt is now a prominent landmark.
Nearby attractions include Rye Castle, Lamb House, Rye Heritage Centre, and St. Mary’s Parish Church.
For food and drink, there are numerous options such as The Fig, The Union Rye, and Hoof.
Walk-in slots can be hard to come by, so it’s advisable to do some research and book in advance. Don’t forget to stop by Knoops, a delightful shop specialising in milkshakes, hot chocolate, and iced chocolate.
There’s an array of cosy hotels and guest houses for those planning an overnight stay, with plenty of inns available too.
Rye comes highly recommended for a day trip this summer; it’s stunning and offers plenty to keep even the little ones entertained.
