With its cobbled streets, quaint architecture, and charming shops, the famous town of Rye exudes an old-world feeling that's hard to resist. Nestled in the picturesque county of East Sussex, this small town has a big personality and undeniably, plenty of activities to keep you entertained on a weekend getaway. From exploring the mysterious alleyways of the medieval town to savoring the delicious local cuisine, Rye offers a wealth of experiences that will tantalize all senses.

So whether you're a history lover, a nature adventurer, or a foodie, it’s time to pack your bags, leave all worries behind and join us as we uncover some of the town’s hidden treasures. These are our favorite things to do when staying at St. John or Coastguard’s Cottage.

1. A piece of England

Exploring the town can be very transportive, with its ancient buildings and historic landmarks building a scene that feels like a movie set. Visitors can take a stroll through the town's cobbled streets, lined with charming shops and local pubs, and discover a piece of England on every corner. Start your walk on Mermaid Street for a journey back in time and walk up towards Lamb House, where some of its famous residents, such as Henry James and E. F. Benson, wrote their literary masterpieces in the early 20th century. 

A couple of steps further you’ll find St. Mary's Church, the town’s famous church with its gorgeous stained glass windows, and the Rye Castle, a must-visit if you want to get an insight into the town's fascinating past. Built in 1249 as a main defense for the town, its walls have seen everything from battles and sieges to pirate attacks, and now it serves as a fascinating museum where you can learn about the town's rich history. The small tower offers views of what was once one of the most important harbors in England, its importance prompted Queen Elizabeth I to visit the town in 1573, so make sure to have a look yourself.

2. Shop til you drop

We’ve already talked about our favorite places to shop in Rye. The town is a haven for those who love antique and vintage pieces and its charming architecture sets the perfect backdrop fabulous shopping experience. Be sure to check out Soap and Salvation, McCully & Crane, and Alex McArthur Interiors for all incredible pre-loved pieces and art, as well as Rae, The Snug, and Cordelia James for lifestyle items and other gifts.

In addition, the town's weekly markets and small shops offer a chance to explore locally-sourced, artisanal treasures and for those who love to cook, Rye's local produce is not to be missed. From fresh seafood caught in Rye Bay to locally grown fruit and vegetables, there is plenty to discover and enjoy. Whether you're looking to cook up a feast during your stay or simply enjoy trying out local delicacies, the selection here is sure to impress.

3. Wine…

Rye is famous for its rolling hills and lush vineyards, and what better way to explore the booming wine scene than attending a wine tasting and trying out award-winning products that are both delicious and unique? Whether you're a connoisseur or want to learn more, the wineries here offer tasting experiences that can be a lot of fun.

Tillingam is a popular choice, famous for its regenerative approach and use of biodynamic practices that produce a range of delicious natural wines while restoring soil health to create a balanced ecosystem throughout the whole farm. Award-winning Oxney is a favorite of ours, who open up their stunning vineyard and farm to give visitors a tour of their excellent range of organic wines - you can even stay for a picnic on the scenic farm grounds afterward! 

Other fantastic options are Chapel Down Winery, Wickham Manor, and Charles Palmer, offering a range of different wines to suit every palate. If you would rather pick up a bottle to try at home we recommend checking out Rye Fine Wines and Beaucatcher Wines, both offering an amazing selection.

4. …and dine

A weekend in Rye is not enough to try out everything the locals have to offer. Whether you're in the mood for fine dining or a casual bite, there really is something for everyone. We highly recommend that you visit The George for dinner during your stay, as this place perfectly blends historic elegance with culinary excellence. Located in a recently restored Georgian building, they offer a menu of modern British cuisine that showcases the best of local, seasonal ingredients accompanied by a fantastic selection of wines and cocktails, making it the perfect spot for a special night out. The restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with exposed beams and cozy nooks, sets the stage for an unforgettable evening which truly represents best the charm of the town.

For something more casual The Standard and Hoof are our go-to’s; rustic and seasonal, they focus on hearty, often meat-forward comfort food that will feed the soul. Alternatively, for a plant-based option, look no further than License 2 Kale. This upscale juice bar is a new gem in Rye, standing out for its dedication to providing delicious and nutritious food that celebrates organic ingredients. Here you’ll find flavorful options, from protein smoothies to acai bowls and energy balls that will keep you going while you’re out and about exploring the town.

If you're in the mood for something a little bit more scenic, the Dungeness Snack Shack is a must-visit. This seafood hut right on the beach offers a menu of the freshest and most delicious seafood, including fish and chips, crab, and lobster, perfect to enjoy on a warm day while watching the waves crash against the shore.

5. Pick your own food

Tibbs Farm is a great place to visit with family and friends and take part in an experience you’ll never forget. This family-run farm offers the opportunity to pick your own fruit and vegetables, including strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, plums, and more. The farm has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and there's nothing quite like the taste of freshly picked produce. In addition to picking your own fruit, you can also enjoy a relaxing stroll around the farm and take in the beautiful scenery. 

If you have a bit more experience, we also recommend going for a wild foraging walk in the area. There are a lot of varieties of edible greens, fungi, and fruit but please make sure to advise an expert first. There are often workshops organized by the local community so keep an eye out for those!

6. One with nature

If you want to escape into nature, Rye is the perfect destination for you. With a vast variety of hiking trails to choose from, you can truly spend hours in never-ending landscapes. With its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is a great place to start your adventure and explore a variety of habitats, including salt marsh, sand dunes, shingles, and grazing marsh. Here, you will spot a wide range of birds and if you're lucky, you might even come across a seal. How exciting is that! 

Other must-visits are the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Bluebell Woods and Brede High Woods, but if you're up for a challenge, the 1066 Country Walk is a 31-mile trail that takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of East Sussex. The trail starts in Pevensey and ends in Rye, taking you through picturesque towns and villages along the way.  For a more relaxed hike, we recommend a beautiful coastal walk from Pett Level to Hastings that offers beautiful views of the English Channel - and a pub at the end!

7. Unforgettable Dungeness

If you want to venture a bit further, Dungeness is a unique and fascinating area that's worth exploring during your weekend getaway to Rye. One of the most notable attractions is the Dungeness Power Station, which is the largest nuclear power station in Europe. 

While you can't enter the station itself, you can take a guided tour of the visitor center to learn more about the history and operations of the power station. Another notable attraction in Dungeness is the Prospect Cottage, which was the home and garden of the late artist and filmmaker Derek Jarman. The cottage and garden have been preserved in their original state, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about Jarman's life and work.

Worth visiting is also the nearby Lighthouse and if you're interested in history and transportation, you can take a ride on the Romney, Hythe, and Dymchurch Railway, a miniature steam railway that runs from Dungeness to Hythe. The railway has been in operation since the 1920s and provides a unique and charming way to explore the area

8. Life's a Beach

Whether you're looking to soak up some sun and swim in clear blue waters, or simply take a stroll along the shore, Rye is the perfect destination to explore the nearby coast. The infamous 8-mile Camber Sands beach needs no introduction, as it’s one of the most beautiful - and popular - beaches in the country and the nearest to London. Aside from miles of golden sand dunes which are perfect for your R&R, you should also know that the beach is popular with water sports enthusiasts, who can enjoy activities such as kite surfing and windsurfing. 

However, if you're looking for a quieter alternative, Pett Level and Winchelsea Beach are both tucked away from the crowds for a more secluded and peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. We find Pett Level, in particular, to be a hidden gem, as at low tide, visitors can see a submerged prehistoric forest dating back to the Bronze Age. The beach and cliffs were also featured in David Bowie's "ASHES to ASHES" music video, making it a unique and culturally significant location.

7. Ride into the sunset

We can’t really think of anything more romantic than going horse riding along the stunning coastline near Rye.  Sussex Riding offers classes suitable for riders of all abilities, with experienced guides on hand to ensure everyone is safe and comfortable all while providing a truly unique way to experience the natural beauty of the area. You'll have the opportunity to ride through sandy beaches and beautiful trails with views of the sea and surrounding countryside. It's an unforgettable experience that's perfect for horse lovers and anyone looking for a unique and memorable way to explore the local area.

10. Party like a local

Locals love to celebrate and a look at the town’s events calendar shows just how diverse the cultural scene here is. Held annually in August, The Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival is an absolute stand-out, bringing together some of the world's best jazz and blues musicians, with performances taking place in a variety of venues around Rye. A bit later, in September, the Rye Arts Festival showcases a range of theatre, literature, music, and visual arts and visitors can enjoy performances by internationally renowned and local artists coming together for two whole weeks. When the weather is a bit warmer, we recommend checking out the Rebel Eeel Cineclub which hosts open-air cinema events in some of the town's most picturesque locations, such as in front of the Dungeness Power Station. 

The winter is still a hoot here! Rye celebrates its culinary heritage with events such as Rye Wild Boar Week in October and Rye Scallop Week in February, during which local restaurants and cafes offer special menus featuring these local delicacies. Finally, every November, we’ve got one of the biggest events in the area, the Rye Bonfire featuring a parade, fireworks, and the burning of a giant bonfire to commemorate the town's history and traditions. This memorable experience must not be missed!

Thinking about visiting Rye? Stay with us at St John! This award-winning conversion of an ambulance station is located within the old town walls of Rye and just a few minutes walk from the train station; the perfect location to explore the area from. With ample space to sleep 8-10 guests, you will have everything you need right within your reach.

Photography by Voytek Ketz

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