Rye, East Sussex is a beautiful English town that can make your vacation one of the most wonderful experiences. Here, you can find a variety of things. You can find cobbled lanes, timbered houses, and a famous inn. There are also wide sandy beaches located here that you can explore and enjoy. So, if you are wondering what things to do in Rye, East Sussex, this article is for you. We will write ahead about the best spots you can visit to make this a memorable trip.
9 Things To Do In Rye, East Sussex
1. Wander Mermaid Street
Your list of “things to do in Rye” should have Mermaid Street in it. Here you can find all the picture-perfect things. There is a slope, cobbles, and houses made of timber, which have low ceilings. All of this is beautiful, and you will have tons of pictures here. What a way to start your trip! You will keep finding treasure after treasure here. It will keep you busy, but your camera will be busier. Have fun exploring your first location in the list.
2. Visit the Mermaid Inn – things to do in Rye, East Sussex
As you explore Mermaid Street, you will also spot the Mermaid Inn. This place, as you see it, was rebuilt in the early 1400s. It also has cellars that date back to the 1100s. Today, this place is partly a hotel and partly a pub or restaurant. If you are hungry and the Mermaid Inn is around, you should visit it for a warm and soulful lunch.
If you just happen to reach it after a long walk, the atmosphere is inviting and friendly for having snacks. Whatever the meal, you will feel the long history of the place capturing your imagination. Once you recharge yourself, there are other things to do in Rye, East Sussex, that you need to check.
3. Explore Ypres Tower and the museum
So, what to do in Rye? There are many interesting places you can check. If you feel hungry for some nice history of the place, climb around the Ypres Tower. You will also hear people refer to it as the Rye Castle. This place was once a defensive tower. Over the years, it has been used as a fort, a prison, and even a courthouse. Just imagine how much history the place has recorded! There is also a small museum nearby. It brings Rye’s maritime and smuggling past to life. The stories of which will keep you busy. Definitely one of the things to do in Rye, East Sussex.
4. Climb St Mary’s Church tower
One of the things to do in Rye includes climbing the St Mary’s Church tower. Why, you ask? Up there from the top, you will have a view that is worth the effort. The 360° view will show you over the roofs of Rye and across Romney Marsh to Camber Sands. If you look carefully, you will also be able to see the harbour. Just make sure you go at your own pace, as the climb can be a bit narrow. That’s another thing off your list of things to do in Rye, East Sussex.
5. Visit Lamb House – things to do in Rye, East Sussex
What is the Lamb House, you ask? It is a Georgian house that is connected to writers such as Henry James and E. F. Benson. The place has beautiful rooms full of grace, and even the walled garden is beautiful. Your stroll will definitely be serene, and the pictures will be post-worthy. The house will be the perfect pick for you if you like quiet history and literary stories. It is managed by the National Trust and is surely a place that will slow you down and make you reflect.
6. Walk, birdwatch, or cycle to Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
There are a lot of things to do in Rye, East Sussex. One of them is visiting Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. If you were looking to get in some local wildlife and wide open skies, this is the place. Here, there is a vast reserve of shingle, salt marsh and shoreline. It will keep you busy with the thousands of species you can discover. If you want a relaxing afternoon where you sit and birdwatch, this could be your pick. If you are more interested in walking peacefully beside the sea, you can have that too.
7. Make time for Camber Sands

There is a long, flat, and family-friendly beach in Rye, East Sussex. It should also be in your list of things to do in Rye, East Sussex. Camber Sands is easily accessible and a fun addition to the trip while you are here.
8. Browse independent shops, cafés and antique stores
For a change, you can turn into an explorer. Rye has so many hidden locations you can discover. There are small shops selling antiques, handmade goods, local foods, and books. There are beautiful cafes, and other places you will make one-of-a-kind memories in. That way, you will never wonder about what to do in Rye.
9. Try a local pub
Your craving for a proper pub meal is heard. Think fish and chips, a warming pie, or a fun board of local cheeses. The pubs in Rye have a cosy vibe and friendly locals who will help you make the most of your things to do in Rye, East Sussex. So, go on. Make yourself comfortable. Create those memories that you will cherish for a long time.
Conclusion
The English town has so much to offer if you are wondering about things to do in Rye, East Sussex. Once you are here, you just let your imagination and your heart take you to places and adventures that you will not forget. From beautiful streets, wildlife, beaches, antiques, and other attractions, Rye has it all. Plan your next escape in Rye and make sure you note down the places in this article to help you make the most out of your trip here. Pack your bags and create those memories. Happy Travelling!