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.
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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:
Click on any of the cafes listed above to head to their Google Map location!
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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.
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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?
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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.
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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!
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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:
Click on any of the restaurants listed above to head to their Google Map location!
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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.
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Enjoy your day out in Rye & I hope you love it as much as I do!
As always, love Elise x
Loved reading this. I used to go to Rye a lot when I was younger. We have been to the mermaid inn many times for drinks but never stayed there. My dad wanted to but my mum was too frightened 😂
Your writing is awesome as always.
Thanks for another great read 👏👏
Megan xx
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Isn’t it a lovely area!? I’ve never stayed either but would love to try it out! I dont know if I could sleep knowing it’s haunted. Did it ever feel haunted when you went? I’m so glad you like the blog post ☺️☺️
Elise. X
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