Do you know why there are two castles in the small town of Rye, and why it has Britain’s most Instagrammable street? Here are four things you should know about Rye.
1. It’s home to a sandy beach
The Sussex coastline has plenty of beaches with pebbles and shingle, but Camber Sands is one of the few sand beaches you’ll find on the South Coast. The beach is popular for windsurfing, and it’s thankfully largely unspoilt. The best part is you’ll get there from Rye station in just under 20 minutes.
2. Rye has two castles
Ever wondered why the small town of Rye features both the impressive Rye Castle, and the ruins of Camber Castle close by? Due to its location, Rye was historically one of the first towns French invaders would reach, so it needed proper defence. A part of the area was even ruled by the French until 1247, and a village still bears the name Rye Foreign as a result!
3. The most Instagrammable street in the UK
Mermaid Street in Rye is often called the most Instagrammable street in Britain. Visit the historic cobbled-stoned street and you’ll understand why! The street is home to the Mermaid Inn, that opened back in the 12th century. It was a favourite of smugglers, like the notorious Hawkhurst Gang in the 1700s, and they even had a secret passageway entrance.
4. Rye used to be by the sea
Did you know the sea used to surround Rye? It was a bustling harbour town until the 16th century, but water has since retreated, and now lies two miles away, at the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. Explore this unique landscape of beaches and marshland on Rye walks, like the 1066 country walk, or on AllTrails walks near Rye.
Start planning your day out with Southern to this historic town. Not only do you have ideas of things to do in Rye, but now you’ve also got some fun facts to impress your friends with.
Remember to follow the latest government guidelines on travelling.
Images: iStockphoto
References: Historic UK; Wikipedia; Mermaid Inn; Visit 1066 Country; The Beach Guide