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Street in Rye

Explore the history of Rye

Blog post author - Joana

by Joana Bartlett

What's in it for me?

  • Rye is a picturesque medieval town with rich history, featuring cobbled streets, crooked buildings, and independent shops, ideal for a day trip
  • Rye Castle, built in 1249, is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into the town’s defense history, with a museum and historical displays
  • Rye offers beautiful walks, including the Rye Harbour nature reserve and circular routes, with easy access via the convenient train station

Rye castle, also known as Ypres Tower, is English Heritage and is an absolute must on your trip, especially as it’s in the town and less than 10 minute walk from the train station. It was built in 1249 to defend from attacks from across France. Alongside being used for protection, it was also used as a prison and courthouse, even being a women’s prison from 1837! The castle tower was damaged during air raids in World War 2, but it has since been repaired and restored. It’s open 10.30am - 4.30pm every day except Christmas and Boxing Day. Entry is £5 for an adult, but children under 16 have free entry when accompanied by an adult. The castle is also a great stopping point if you choose to do the Rye Circular walk as it's on the walk. The starting point is Rye train station which is extremely convenient!

Rye street

There is so much history to explore around the town. Rye Castle Museum, which is in a separate location to Rye Castle, is also absolutely worth a visit. The location of this is on East Street, and it was once a bottling factory! It houses so much town history, plus an 18th century fire engine, tobacco pipes and pottery made in Rye which made the town famous too. There is even a display to see how over the past 1000 years the coastline has changed, plus models of the ships previously built in Rye in the shipbuilding display. Entry to the museum is free, but they do take donations. Rye Heritage centre has a fantastic shop, but also provides a really special addition - ‘Story of Rye’. It’s a 15 minute sound and light show which shows the town model and takes you through the cobbled streets and hidden gems in Rye. It means as you walk along the streets, you’ll know who’s walked before you: Kings, Queens, French invaders, authors, sailors, potters, smugglers and more! Tickets to the show are £5 for adults and £3 per person, and they’re open 10.30am - 4.30pm Tuesday to Sunday.

Rye castle

There are also some great walks around Rye, the best bit being they’re free. Hop on a train to Rye station, forget about parking and just get walking! Rye and Camber castle walk is a great option at 7.2km and a circular walk. It starts in the town so you can combine walking and history. Rye Harbour nature reserve walk is also a great option as it starts directly from the Rye railway station and is 14.6km. It goes to Camber Castle, Castle water and then to Long Pit and along the coastal path for some amazing sea views before circling back to the station via Rye Harbour.

Parking around Rye can be pretty difficult making the train such a great option. With Rye station less than 10 minutes from the town, it is so convenient. There is so much to do for a day trip in Rye; from history, to walking, to shopping, to just taking in the beautiful town from a cafe - there’s something for everyone at all price points. Definitely not one to miss!

Rye castle

Buying tickets

You can buy Southern train tickets online and collect them from the ticket machine before you travel. You can also buy them from a ticket machine or ticket office at the station.

Buy Southern tickets online