2025 Rye Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in April)

🇬🇧Rye｜There is a small town in the UK that is closest to heaven ▪️Rye｜Rye The small town of Rye in southeast England is known as "the town closest to heaven". This thousand-year-old town attracts countless travelers with its winding cobblestone streets, ancient buildings and laid-back atmosphere. - ▪️Mermaid Street｜Mermaid Street Fair Street is Rye's most famous street, with cobbled paths winding up and well-preserved medieval houses on both sides. The most noteworthy is the Mermaid Inn, an inn built in the 15th century, which was once a secret gathering place for pirates. - ▪️St. Mary's Church｜St. Mary's Church St. Mary's Church is located at the highest point of the town. It was built in the 12th century and is a historical landmark of Rye. From the church bell tower you can overlook the entire town, as well as the fields and coastline in the distance. - ▪️Rye Castle｜Rye Castle Rye Castle, also known as the "Ypres Tower", is a well-preserved fortification of the town. It was once a fortress to protect the town from pirate attacks. Today, it has been converted into a museum. - ▪️Bookshops & Craft Stores Rye is a paradise for literature lovers, the most famous of which is the Rye Bookshop, which houses a wide range of books from classic literature to rare ancient books. - ▪️Town port and natural scenery｜Harbour & Nature Although Rye is no longer a busy port, it still retains a peaceful seaside atmosphere. Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is an excellent wildlife viewing spot and features a diverse wetland ecosystem. - ▪️Food and Afternoon Tea｜Local Cuisine & Tea Rooms Rye’s little cafes and teahouses are the perfect place to soak up the town’s laid-back vibe. We especially recommend The Mermaid Street Café, whose warm environment and exquisite desserts make people feel relaxed. - ▪️Rye Festivals｜Rye Festivals The town of Rye hosts various festivals throughout the year, the most famous of which is the Rye Bonfire Night in November each year. On the day of the festival, the town is enthralled with torchlight parades, firework displays and bonfires.

. 🎀 Sussex County, England, is a place with iconic coastlines, gardens, literary greats, huge art collections, and castles. The fairy-tale town of Rye is located in this county. . 🎀 Rye is small and can be walked in half a day, but I still recommend staying here for one night to enjoy its beautiful sunrise and sunset. In addition, the nearby Winchelsea is a quiet and picturesque town with only more than 600 people. Many buildings date back to the Middle Ages. It is said to be the smallest town in England, only ten minutes away from Rye by train. . 🎀 You must go to Mermaid Street in Rye, this cobblestone path is fairy-tale cute (Figure 1️⃣2️⃣). 🎀 The entrance of The Hope Anchor Hotel is suitable for watching the sunset (Figure 3️⃣). The path next to the hotel is full of flowers in spring and summer, which is very beautiful. 🎀 Ypres Tower (Rye Castle Museum) (Figure 4️⃣), the turret in front of the Rye History Museum is a good place to watch the sunrise. . 🎀 In addition to these old and cute buildings, the natural wildlife landscapes of Rye and Winchelsea are also great. You can participate in a day trip here to explore wildlife, birds, and nature. .

RYE, we came to this town because we saw a review saying it is 'the town closest to heaven.' When we arrived, the flower season had already passed, so from an aesthetic point of view, the town was not as stunning as imagined. However, in terms of atmosphere, it is truly ancient, tranquil, and peaceful. Being there easily soothes emotions and makes one feel calm and composed. The main street of the town is a cobblestone road, and it is said to have a beautiful name, Mermaid Street. The houses on both sides of the street maintain an ancient appearance, with red bricks or white walls and black wooden beams, giving a strong sense of age. If you like taking beautiful photos, everywhere is a great background for portrait shots. If just looking around, the town can be toured in two hours. But I think it's best to stay for a night. I recommend the Mermaid Inn in the town center, which is said to be the second oldest inn in England. When we went, there were no rooms available, so we could only sit on the ground floor and feel the atmosphere. It had a very medieval feel. Coffee costs over three pounds, and the room rate is over two hundred pounds per night. The inn is right on Mermaid Street. From an experience perspective, the town is quite interesting. The community center has activities that have been ongoing for decades. Residents come here to sell or donate items. You can have free afternoon tea at the community center. The items for sale include vegetables grown in their own gardens, hand-knitted wool socks, baby clothes, homemade cakes, and handicrafts. Many elderly people participate in the activities, sitting around tables, drinking tea, and chatting. The town park sports field has a dedicated lawn for playing lawn bowls, which used to be a noble sport with a history of hundreds of years. Not many people play it in China. The game involves setting a fixed point and seeing whose ball gets closest. Its expense probably lies in the rarity of the lawn. We watched two elderly people compete, and their skills were quite good. The balls they threw could roll out beautiful curves on the grass, indicating they practiced a lot. The field should be open to the public, and those interested can book the field to experience it. There is a river next to the town of Ira. In the evening, with boats and the sunset, the scenery is quite nice. Having a drink by the river, enjoying the breeze and the sunset, is quite pleasant. In short, British towns not only have high aesthetic value but also offer a more wonderful experience of tranquility and leisure.

1-day Rye trip. Go early, shops close by 4pm (or maybe it was some holiday that day and I was not so lucky) Must-do: if not afraid of heights and not claustrophobic, climb up the narrow staircase of St Mary’s Church, excellent view and exhilarating climb! Wear comfortable and sensible walking shoes, Mermaid Street is a cobbled road so could be slippery and/or trap heels.

Visit this pretty corner of East Sussex for historic streets, nature walks, charming pubs and more... Rye is an English town near the coast in East Sussex. In the centre, cobbled lanes like Mermaid Street are lined with medieval, half-timbered houses. The redbrick Lamb House was once owned by writer Henry James. I will always have very fond memories of this place - the day trip started with exploding traditional medieval houses down narrow cobbled streets, then enjoying a tasty Sunday roast in a local pub and G&T at a table with friendly strangers after sunset. 😆 Rye can also be combined with a visit to Camber Sands - one of the BEST beaches you can find in England. Only a short bus ride away from the town of Rye #myvlogtrip #tripblazers

Rye is a town in East Sussex near the coast. the beautiful cobbled lanes are a must see, especially the Mermaid street. The red Post Box in the wall like in the image was often used in rural areas where there was no pavement on which to place a pillar box.

#londontrips 🇬🇧 Just 1 hour from London, yet a world away Nestled near the southern coast of England, Rye is a quaint and enchanting village that seems frozen in time. With cobbled lanes, timber-framed houses, and a serene countryside setting, it’s a dream for photographers, history lovers, and anyone craving a peaceful escape. 📍How to Get There from London • By Train: Take a direct train from London Bridge or London Victoria—it’s only around 1 hour and 15 minutes to Rye. • By Car: Driving takes about 2 hours, making it a perfect weekend getaway or road trip detour. 🇬🇧 Top Must-See Spots in Rye 🔹Rye Old Town Wander through Rye’s historic old town where cobblestone streets, antique shops, and ivy-covered cottages transport you straight back to medieval England. Don’t miss Mermaid Street and Watchbell Street—two of the most photogenic roads in the entire UK. 🔹St. Mary’s Church Dating back to the 12th century, this majestic church sits at the town’s heart. Climb the tower for panoramic views of Rye and its surrounding countryside. Inside, admire the wooden ceilings and centuries-old stained glass windows. 🔹Rye Castle Museum (Ypres Tower) Built in the 12th century, this former fortress turned museum gives you a glimpse into Rye’s turbulent past—from pirate raids to medieval life. Head up the tower for sweeping views across the marshes and rooftops. 🔹Mermaid Inn One of the oldest pubs in England, dating back to 1420, Mermaid Inn is steeped in charm and legend. Once a notorious smugglers’ hideout, today it welcomes travelers with its creaky floorboards, wooden beams, and cozy fireplace nooks. 🔹Camber Sands Just 15 minutes by car from Rye lies Camber Sands, one of southeast England’s best beaches. Think: golden dunes, wide-open skies, and salty sea breeze. Ideal for a seaside picnic, windsurfing, or just a peaceful stroll. 🌟Why You’ll Love Rye • It’s like stepping into a fairytale film set (without the tourists of big cities). • Every corner is photo-worthy, especially at sunrise or sunset. • The perfect blend of coastal chill, historic vibes, and countryside calm.

#Overseas travel Less than an hour and a half from London, in Sussex, lies the medieval town of Rye, where time seems to have stopped! From cobblestone alleys, timber-framed houses covered in ivy, castle ruins, century-old pubs, to golden sandy beaches—the town is filled with quaint British charm. No matter where you take a picture, you’ll capture a postcard-like, emotional scene. ✨Recommended places 📍 Rye Old Town The town center that still retains its medieval atmosphere. Cobblestone streets + quaint timber-framed buildings + fairytale-like atmosphere! Independent bookstores, vintage stores, craft shops, and cute cafes make it a great place to take a leisurely stroll. 📍 St. Mary’s Church This Gothic-style church, built in the 12th century, is a symbol of Rye. If you climb up the bell tower, you can see the whole town and the sea in the distance. Be sure to check out the medieval stained glass and wooden ceiling inside. 📍 Ypres Tower Museum This was a 12th-century medieval fortress and is now a museum. If you climb to the top of the tower, you'll feel like you've gone back to the Middle Ages! You can see the whole town at a glance. 📍 The Mermaid Inn A quaint inn with over 600 years of history. It's a place with a mysterious atmosphere and ghost stories! If you want to feel the atmosphere full of Old English sensibility, you can enjoy afternoon tea or stay overnight. 📍 Camber Sands A beach with golden sand that is rare in England. You can enjoy walking, watching the sunset, and even kite flying or kite surfing!

Rye is one of England’s most enchanting towns, where cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and a rich maritime history create a picture-perfect escape. Mermaid Street, with its crooked timber-framed houses and ivy-clad facades, feels like stepping into a fairytale. Climb St Mary’s Church tower for stunning views, explore the hauntingly beautiful Ypres Tower, or pop into a cozy tearoom for a classic cream tea. With its antique shops, quaint inns, and a timeless atmosphere, Rye is the perfect blend of history and charm—an unforgettable slice of old England waiting to be explored. #thingstodo #couplestrip

#ancienttownvibes Nestled in the rolling countryside of East Sussex, Rye felt like a town frozen in time. With its cobbled streets, medieval timber-framed houses, and historic inns, every corner of this ancient town carried the weight of centuries. Once a vital port and a member of the Cinque Ports, Rye’s past is woven with tales of smugglers, maritime trade, and medieval intrigue. I began my exploration at Mermaid Street, the town’s most famous lane, where crooked half-timbered houses lined the path, each with quirky names like “The House with Two Front Doors” and “The House Opposite.” At the top of the street stood the Mermaid Inn, a 600-year-old establishment once frequented by the notorious Hawkhurst Gang of smugglers. Inside, low-beamed ceilings, secret passageways, and roaring fireplaces whispered stories of its turbulent past. From there, I made my way to St. Mary’s Church, a towering presence in the heart of Rye. Climbing to the top of its bell tower, I was rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the town’s red rooftops, the surrounding countryside, and even the distant coastline. Below, the churchyard held centuries of history, its weathered gravestones standing as silent witnesses to the town’s past. A short walk led me to the Ypres Tower, a 13th-century fortification that once guarded Rye from invaders. Now a museum, it showcased the town’s storied history, from its days as a vital port to its struggles against pirate raids. Standing on its battlements, I imagined the days when soldiers kept watch over the River Rother, ensuring the town’s safety. No visit to Rye would be complete without exploring its secret past. At the Rye Heritage Centre, I delved into the town’s smuggling history, learning how clandestine operations thrived in its network of tunnels and hidden passages. The interactive exhibits and the town model brought its past to life, offering a glimpse into Rye’s once-thriving black-market trade.

Rye is a town in East Sussex, England. Rye is also a formal civil parish and a popular tourist attraction. There are many specialty shops nearby, and those who like treasure hunting but don't like chain stores must visit this place. The seaside scenery is endless and the scenery is really super pleasant! ! Friends who like the outdoors must go for a walk. The Turkish restaurant is also excellent and worth a try! #GlobalTravel #BritishTravel #Must-visit spots in the UK

. 🌙Rye is small, but it is very lively at night. The restaurants are full of people, and the streets are full of laughter. It is a very happy "fairy tale town". .

| White Cliffs, England. 🌟Introduction to attractions: The Seven Sisters Cliffs, located on the south coast of England, is a masterpiece of nature. This stretch of white limestone cliffs for kilometers stretches across the English Channel like a natural ink painting and is known as "England's business card." Its pure white color sparkles brightly under the sunlight, contrasting with the blue sea and sky, forming a stunning natural landscape. Here, you can fully appreciate the majestic beauty and tranquility of nature. 📝Itinerary: DAY1: Depart from London, take the train to Brighton, then take the bus to Seven Sisters National Park and start hiking to explore the white cliffs. Enjoy the spectacular coastline along the way, feel the sea breeze on your face, and don't forget to take photos at the best spots. DAY2: Watch the sunrise in the morning and experience the unique charm of the white cliffs in the morning light. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Cestre Museum to learn about the local history and culture. In the evening, you can enjoy a picnic by the beach and wait for the sunset to enjoy a romantic moment. DAY3: Go to the neighboring town of Rye to enjoy authentic English afternoon tea and visit the ancient lighthouse to end this White Cliffs trip. 🍲Food recommendation: In the town of Rye, you must not miss the traditional British fish and chips there. Freshly caught seafood is served with crispy fries, and every bite tastes like the ocean. In addition, the local specialty dessert scones served with clotted cream and jam are even more memorable. In the town’s exquisite restaurants, you can also taste a variety of innovative dishes made with local ingredients, giving your taste buds plenty of surprises in addition to the beautiful scenery. 🚗Transportation strategy: Take the train from London Victoria Station to Brighton in about 1 hour, and then take the bus to the Seven Sisters White Cliffs in about 1 hour. Self-driving tourists can drive east along the A259 road, which takes about 2 hours. No matter which way you choose, the idyllic scenery along the way will add more fun to your journey.

Rye is a very distinctive old town It was raining all day, but the scenery was beautiful. The local houses are very special, as if you have returned to the UK 100 years ago Many handicraft shops opened by locals And many stores sell a lot of exquisite vintage knickknacks. It's comfortable to walk on the street and rest Worth recommending👍🏻#weekendtrip #uktravel #bestplacesintheuk

a lovely small town with nice tea house, fish and chips and the lovely building. Don’t forget they got rocky road as well… better not to wear slipper when exploring this town. spend 3 hrs here, it is really relaxing.

Little pretty town, Rye

If you want to experience life in a small town in the UK, there is no doubt that the town of Rye is the best choice. The town of Rye is an old and charming town and one of the most important strait ports. There are white brick houses on the hills and red bricks, and there are staggered stone paths to walk. There is a quiet and refined English town, although only 4.2 square kilometers, but Rye is called "The town closest to heaven." This train from London to Rye is an hour-long train. There is no direct route. During the trip, you need to transfer to Ashford Station in Ashford International. The total distance takes 1.5 hours. Stepping into the town, being infected by the lifestyle here, the corner cafes are chatting, the sun is falling in the small shops on both sides of the street, there are coffee houses, restaurants and old book houses hidden in the alleys. Art shops and clothing stores, etc. Every cottage and the shops on the street retain the original history of the town, and each has a history of more than a hundred years. There are not many people in the town, very quiet, and I feel that time has slowed down.