Rye Attractions

Rye (pop. 5,000) was one of the privileged Cinque Ports after 1191. Its name means "island", and indeed the town does lie like an island above the flat marshland which has been flooded by the sea more than once. The old town is still partly surrounded by its medieval walls and attracts many artists. Twisty and in some places steep cobbled alleys climb upwards, lined by charming cottages, small craft shops, potteries and very cozy restaurants.

Rye has a number of diverse shops and many ancient buildings.