Local Information

A visit to Rye is a great idea at any time of the year, from spring through to winter.  Old houses and cobbled streets steeped in history invite the visitor to explore and discover the many facets of this fascinating town.

Many of the medieval, Tudor and Georgian buildings offer rest and refreshments to the modern traveller in the guise of pubs, restaurants, and tearooms.  Visit the Museum, art galleries, antique shops, and potteries.  Christmas shopping in Rye can be more fun than in large cities.   

Well known authors and artists have lived and been inspired in Rye, E.F. Benson (of Mapp and Lucia fame), Henry James, Joseph Conrad, HG Wells, GK Chesterton, John Nash and Whistler to name a few.

For nature lovers Rye Harbour Nature Reserve has an Information Centre, network of footpaths to explore and bird watching hides.  Check on www.naturereserve.ryeharbour.org for information.

Within easy reach of Rye is Battle, the site of the Battle of Hastings in 1066; for the romantic [and not so romantic] a trip to Bodiam Castle surrounded by its own moat would make a pleasant diversion and the gardens of Great Dixter at Northiam will provide inspiration for all the plantsmen and women who visit.

Visit www.1066country.com for more ideas.

For more information on activities in and around Rye, from cycling to birdwatching, check out our When in Rye page...

see some pictures of the loacl area...