Nestled between rolling hills and the English Channel, Rye is an East Sussex gem. Once surrounded by sea, this historic hilltop was originally built to defend the south coast of England. Nowadays, you’re more likely to find film crews floating around in search of historical settings for their period dramas, as opposed to warships.
- By The Beach
- Children Welcome
- Good Food
- Multiple Dogs Allowed
- Parking
- Rural Walks
Good to know
Overview
In the centre of Rye, there are cobbled lanes lined with medieval, half-timbered houses and the infamous Mermaid Street and The Mermaid Inn. Once the hangout of smugglers and highwaymen, it’s said to be one of the most haunted spots in Britain.
St. Mary’s church tower offers the best viewpoint to marvel at the many terracotta roofs. Dogs can accompany you into the church and up the steeple but it’s quite a narrow, steep climb so bear that in mind before setting off.
Stop for lunch at The Standard Inn. Think cosy corners, beautifully carved beams, warming open fires for cold days and seasonal meals using locally sourced produce. Dogs are very welcome. Or if you’d prefer to sit in the sun, The Ship Inn is dog friendly and has outdoor seating. The food is divine, especially when paired with a glass of Balfour wine from the local Hush Heath Estate.
Finish your day with a walk around Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, a large coastal nature reserve with an abundance of wildlife. Four-legged friends will need to be kept on their leads around livestock, but will thoroughly enjoy the fresh air and changing terrains.
For The Dogs
Bring leads, poop bags, and a towel. You’ll find bowls of water outside many of the shops and restaurants in the town.
Parking
There are several car parks dotted around the town. Try the main station car park for easy access to all this historic area has to offer.
The Area
Camber Sands is within walking distance of Rye. Stretching for five miles, this stunning beach is home to soft sand and huge dunes and is the perfect place for setting up camp for the day. Dogs are allowed onto the beach all year round. However, between May and September, four-legged friends are not allowed within certain zones. They’re clearly signposted so you won’t fail to spot them. If you’re planning on staying a while, don’t forget to take a water bowl for your pup. A towel to dry them off will also come in handy.