The Great Historic Town of Rye, East Sussex
In between rockin' and a rollin' at Rhythm Riot Festival we explored some of the marvellous sights and historical gems Rye has to offer. Here are a few pictures and ramblings from our adventure.
Down by the Sea: I can't think of many ways i'd rather spend a sunny winter morning than strolling along the beach, kicking up the sand and staring out to sea. I walked along the coast at Camber Sands just a few miles out from Rye town centre, the beach was pretty lively with young families, dog walkers and friends out for a breath of fresh air. The coastline stretched out unspoilt for miles, I found myself a grassy verge to sit down and watched the World go by.
Great British Food: Rye has a whole host of independent shops selling traditional food, antique shops, art galleries, gift shops, confectionaries and yes even vintage clothing! We stopped into Simon the Pieman for a spot of lunch, naturally I opted for the signature meat pie and a homemade lemonade which was so fresh and delicious. After lunch we browsed the town exploring, the streets are typically cobbled, the houses are wonderfully mixed between old black and white beamed buildings and red brick. It's like stepping back in time.
Pirates & Smugglers: In medieval times Rye was an important member of the Cinque Ports confederation and used as a port for military and trades purposes, this also meant Rye attracted a lot of pirates, smugglers and sea dogs! at this time Rye was almost entirely surrounded by the sea. Notorious smuggling gangs of the 18th and 19th centuries like the notorious Hawkhurst Gang used to hang around at the inns in Rye. Those old smugglers inns still exist today! two of the most well known are The Mermaid Inn and Ye Olde Bell Inn that apparently are both connected by secret passage way. The Mermaid Inn dates back to 1156!!! and is open selling food and drink, you can even stay over night!
Haunted Rye Castle: Rye Castle (I can't say that out loud without thinking of 80's T.V personality Roy Castle RIP) was a sight to behold. We ventured inside and got talking to the lovely man at reception about ghost stories, paranormal activity and all the mysterious goings on that happen when the sun goes down. Rye Castle was built in 1249 and is now open as a museum to walk around and has great views right across the landscape and a medieval garden around the back. Once used as prison the doors and interior is incredible and a little drafty, I could not imagine being locked up in there, I imagine i'd die of a cold before anything else.
The sense of history you get walking around Rye is undeniable magnetic, it's like being transported in a time machine to Medieval times. Rye port is home to many yachts and passing vessels, the town attracts tourists from all over the World every year which is no surprise. What a marvellous slice of history!
Christine x