Destination guides > Europe > England > Southeast England > East Sussex > Rye
Rye
This quaint small town is a popular spot for many travellers to pass through, although there isn't much to keep you busy for any longer than a day. It has a rich history dating prior to Roman times and several historic buildings that are worth a quick look.
Practical information
Rye Tourist Information Centre
The Heritage Centre, Strand Quay, Rye
Tel (01797) 226696
Website www.visitrye.co.uk
Open Mon-Sat 9.30am-5pm, Sun 10am-5pm
Coming & going
Rye is accessible by Stagecoach bus 71, which runs along the coast between Dover and Hastings. This bus runs hourly Mon-Sat and every two hours Sun.
Sightseeing, museums & tourist attractions
Camber Castle
This 16th century castle was part of Henry VIII's coastal defence, however it was used as a garrison for only a short periods the Camber harbour began to silt up not too long after the castle was completed.
Tel (01797) 227784
Website www.wildrye.info/reserve/cambercastle/
Admission £2
Open Jul-Sep Sat-Sun 2pm-5pm
Lamb House
The author Henry James lived in this 18th century house between 1898 and 1926. The house has a lovely garden and some of the writer's possessions are on display here.
West Street, Rye
Train Rye
Tel (01580) 762334
Website www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-lambhouse
Admission £3.80
Open 27 Mar-30 Oct Wed & Sat 2pm-5pm
Rye Castle Museum
The Rye Castle Museum on East Street features an 18th century fire engine plus pottery and historic photos. The museum also maintains exhibits in the nearby Ypres Tower.
3 East Street, Rye
Tel (01797) 226728
Website www.ryemuseum.co.uk
Admission £2.50; £5 joint admission with Ypres Tower
Open Apr-Oct Mon & Thu-Fri 2pm-5pm, Sat-Sun 10.30am-1pm & 2pm-5pm
St Mary's Church
This 12th century church in the town centre is best known as home to England's oldest functioning church turret clock (dating from 1561). You can climb the tower for sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
Lion Street, Rye
Admission free
Open summer 9am-6pm daily; winter 9am-4pm daily
Ypres Tower
Dating from the 14th century, the Ypres Tower is one of Rye's oldest structures, which was built as part of the town's defences and has been used as a prison and a private home before housing part of the museum's exhibits. Displays at the tower include iron and pottery as well as artefacts relating to the town's smuggling and law enforcement history.
Tel (01797) 226728
Website www.ryemuseum.co.uk/ypres.htm
Admission £2.95; £5 joint admission with Rye Castle Museum on East Street
Open Jan-Mar Sat-Sun 10.30am-3pm; Apr-Oct Mon & Thu-Sun 10.30am-1pm & 2pm-5pm; Nov-Dec Sat-Sun 10.30am-3pm
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