Located in the South East of the UK, just minutes away from the coast, is a gorgeous hilly town filled with cobbled streets and history, called Rye. The stunning town is well-known for its antique shops, quaint streets and friendly faces and makes the perfect place to spend a day… or two. Don’t forget to take your camera, as this is one of the prettiest towns in the UK and you won’t be able to help yourself from taking a few photos, I guarantee it. Scroll down to find out the best things to do in Rye, including some of the best places to eat and grab a coffee.

First things first, where’s the coffee shop?

There are plenty of places in Rye to stop for a coffee and/or cake, so not to worry, you’ll be spoilt for choice. All of the coffee shops in Rye are well kept and run at high standards, all you have to do is choose which one to stop by! Some of my favourites include:

• The Fig
• The Cobbles Tea Room
• The Old Grain Store
• Cafe Zara
• Simon The Pieman

Click on any of the cafes listed above to head to their Google Map location!

Wander through the cobbled streets

The famous cobbled streets of Rye are absolutely gorgeous, but watch your step as they can get slippy! Wander through each and every street and admire the houses built along the hill. Look out for the famous ‘house with two front doors’ along the way. Don’t be shy to snap a photo or two, but please respect the locals’ privacy whist doing this.

Watch Out for Ghosts on Mermaid Street

Mermaid Street is known for its haunted hotel, The Mermaid Inn. The Mermaid Inn is dated all the way back to 1420 and is said to be haunted. Many guests have recalled seeing ghosts or movements in the hotel during their stay, and some have even caught movements on camera! Would you stay in the Mermaid Inn?

Explore Rye Castle Museum

In this town full of history, you will stumble across a castle that dates all the way back to 1249. It contains lots of pieces from the Medieval Times and is a great place to go to soak in Rye’s amazing history. The Castle is surrounded by beautiful countryside, so taking a walk to this part of Rye is a great idea even if you’re not interested in the history inside. This is where you’ll find one of the best views in Rye, along with the incredible view from the top of the Bell Tower.

Climb the Bell Tower at St. Mary’s Church

If you’re after a good view of Rye, then St. Mary’s Church is the place to go. Admission is very affordable and costs go towards the upkeep of the Church. There are windy steps, narrow pathways and ladders to climb so please only attempt if you are capable and prepared. The view from the top is phenomenal, and if you’re organised, you could time your visit with the ringing of the bell!

Grab a Bite to eat

Wondering where the best places are to eat and drink in Rye? There are plenty of lovely pubs and restaurants to stop by during your day out in Rye. Many serve fish, being by the harbour, or you can opt for a themed restaurant such as Italian or Turkish. Some of my favourite places to eat in Rye include:

• The Ship Inn
• Landgate Bistro
• The George in Rye
• Webbe’s at the Fish Cafe
• Simply Italian
• Layla Meze Grill

Click on any of the restaurants listed above to head to their Google Map location!

Find Something special in an Antique Shop

With countless antique shops to browse through all around Rye, if you’re a collector or just someone who’s looking for something extra special for their home, I’m sure this is the place to find it. The antique shops are all very unique and have so much to offer so even if you’re not looking for anything in particular, you may find something you love. Rye is home to some of the best and most interesting antique shops I have seen to date.

Enjoy your day out in Rye & I hope you love it as much as I do!

As always, love Elise x

FAQ

Do I need a visa to travel to the UK?

Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Citizens of many countries, including the USA, Canada, Australia, and EU member states, can enter the UK visa-free for short visits. However, some nationalities do require a visa. Check with the UK government website or your local British embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information, you can check here – https://www.gov.uk/uk-border-control

What documents do I need to enter the UK?

At minimum, you’ll need a valid passport to enter the UK. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, you may also need a visa, proof of onward travel, and evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. It’s always a good idea to check the specific requirements well in advance of your trip, which you can do on the UK Border Control site – https://www.gov.uk/uk-border-control

Is travel insurance necessary for visiting the UK?

While travel insurance isn’t a legal requirement for visiting the UK, it’s highly recommended. Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unexpected expenses. It gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re protected in case of any unforeseen circumstances during your trip. I recommended having travel insurance wherever you go.

What’s the best time of year to visit the UK?

The UK, as I’m sure you’ve heard, experiences many rainy days but there are also many sunny days, they’re just not very easy to predict. The best time to visit the UK depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do. Summer (June to August) generally offers the warmest and sunniest weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, it’s also the busiest tourist season. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are less crowded and still offer pleasant weather for exploring. Personally, my favourite months in the UK are May, June and September as the weather is usually pretty good and places aren’t overrun with children off school.

What are some must-visit attractions in the UK?

The UK is home to a wealth of historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and natural wonders. Must-visit attractions include iconic landmarks like Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Stonehenge. Don’t miss exploring the charming cities of London, Edinburgh, Bath, and Oxford. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the picturesque landscapes of the Peak District, Lake District, Scottish Highlands, and the Cotswolds.

How can I get around the UK?

The UK has an extensive and efficient public transportation network, including trains, buses, and the London Underground. For longer distances, trains are usually the fastest and most convenient option, especially if you’re traveling between major cities. In London, the Tube (subway) is the easiest way to navigate the city. Renting a car is also an option if you want more flexibility, especially for exploring rural areas, I’d highly recommend this if you’re planning to spend a long period of time in the UK and wanting to visit multiple rural areas, it should work out more cost effective and convenient in the long run although, you will have to drive on the left hand side!

What currency is used in the UK?

The currency used in the UK is the British Pound Sterling (£). It’s advisable to exchange currency before your trip or withdraw cash from ATMs once you arrive, however credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case you encounter places that don’t accept cards, though this is rare nowadays.

What should I pack for my trip to the UK?

The weather in the UK can be unpredictable, as everyone likes to joke about. Even in the summer, you never know when it’ll suddenly pour with rain so it’s best to pack layers and clothing suitable for various conditions. Be sure to include items like a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, an umbrella, and clothing for both warm and cool weather. If you plan to visit religious sites or fine dining establishments, pack some smart-casual attire as well.

Is tap water safe to drink in the UK?

Yes, tap water in the UK is safe to drink. It undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its quality and is generally of high standard across the country. You can refill your water bottle from taps in restaurants, hotels, and public facilities without any concerns.

Are there any cultural customs or etiquette I should be aware of in the UK?

While the UK is a diverse and multicultural country, there are some general customs and etiquette to be aware of. These include queuing (standing in line) patiently, saying “please” and “thank you” (politeness is valued), respecting personal space, and adhering to social norms in public places. Tipping is discretionary but appreciated for good service, typically around 10-15% in restaurants.

Join the adventure on Instagram…