Exploring a Cinque Port.
Incorporated in 1289, the ancient cinque port town of Rye sits on a hill commanding views of Romney Marsh and the English Channel.
Once a seaport and trading centre, Rye played a vital role in the defence against invaders. And its cobbled streets and medieval houses once echoed to the sound of smugglers’ boots and cutlasses.
There’s so much to do in and around Rye that we’ve listed a few favourites. We’ll happily supply more ideas to suit your party’s interests and the season.
- Jeake’s House is at the heart of the medieval citadel, close to Rye’s shops, bars and restaurants.
- Rye Heritage Centre has a hand-made model of the town; plan your tour of the town here.
- Climb to the roof of St. Mary’s Chuch for stunning views of the town and beyond. The Church also has a stain-glass window by Sir Edward Burne-Jones.
- Camber Sands, the only beach on this coastline with dunes, is a short drive away.
- Ypres Castle and Museum.
- Battle Abbey.
- Great Dixter House & Gardens.
- Scotney Castle and Gardens.
- Hastings (aquariums, smugglers caves, theatres).
- Camber Castle, built by Henry VIII, can be reached by walking over the Marsh. If that gives you a taste for castle-bagging, Hever, Bodium, Pevensy, Lewes, Dover and Leeds are all nearby.
- Sissinghurst Castle & Gardens, designed in 1967 by the writer Vita Sackville-West.
- Visit the strange shingle landscape of Dungeness and the famous garden created by Derek Jarman.