Rye Harbour
Rye Harbour in East Sussex Village Guide
About Rye Harbour in East Sussex
Rye Harbour is a picturesque village and moorings near the Kent and Sussex border. The unique and interesting harbour, which runs along the river Rother offers much to the visitor. It has a busy yachting centre, a fishing fleet and some commercial shipping. The village has a lifeboat station with a long and noble history, two public houses and a village shop. There is also a holiday village for those who wish to explore the area.
A Martello Tower (No 28) was built at Rye Harbour to defend the area against possible invasion during the Napoleonic wars. Today, lying unoccupied, it provides a picturesque setting.
The church of the Holy Spirit at Rye Harbour stands in a beautiful location with a memorial to all those who lost their lives in the Mary Stanford Lifeboat Disaster in 1928.
The Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and entry is free. It has a network of footpaths which provide fascinating walks along the sea shore, across fields and large areas of shingle. There is the opportunity to observe wildlife from several excellent bird hides.
Camber Castle, built by Henry VIII, lies to the west close to Rye Harbour. It can be reached on foot from a footpath at the Rye end of the Rye Harbour Road, or from a footpath through the Rye Nature Reserve or from a footpath at Winchelsea Beach.
What’s new?
Harbour Cycles
We are based in Rye Harbour opposite the Lifeboat station, and next to Rye Harbour nature reserve. Take a bicycle … more
Listed in: Cycling
Message Board
Rye Harbour Fete
Hello I want to contact the event Rye Harbour 18th Aug as I should like to have a table there. … more
Seal Spotting
Hi, I am going to Rye next week. Does anyone know where and what time is best to watch seals? … more
Attractions and Activities
Rye Bay Ebikes
Ebike Hire, Tour, Sales and Servicing shop in Rye, East Sussex. Great fun for all the family and furry friends. Electric bikes are available to hire from age 14. Hourly, half day and full day and longer rentals available. A … more
Mary Stanford Lifeboat House
The Mary Stanford Lifeboat House is a historic building located in Rye Harbour, East Sussex, England. This iconic structure serves as a memorial to the tragic events that unfolded during a daring rescue attempt in 1928. The lifeboat house is … more
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
The Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is approximately 1.4 miles south east of Rye, signposted off the A259. There is a free car park at Rye Harbour. There is a network of foot paths that allow the reserve to be visited … more
Accommodation
Landgate Cottage
15th century Landgate cottage is opposite the medieval Landgate arch, in Rye’s pretty centre. Refurbished recently, retaining period features, with 2 bedrooms, a bath / shower room, a cosy woodburner, pretty courtyard, smart TV and WIFI. Close to galleries, restaurants, … more
Flackley Ash Hotel, Restaurant & Spa
Located in the Sussex countryside 4 miles from the historic town of Rye, Flackley Ash is a delightful Grade II listed Georgian country house with an award-winning restaurant, a bar and spa facilities. The hotel’s spa features various treatment rooms. … more
The Coach House
The Coach House is the newest addition to Cadborough holiday cottages. It is recently converted and offers luxury accommodation for two people. The large spacious open plan living area is light and airy and offers everything for a comfortable, relaxing … more
Restaurants
The George In Rye
This hideaway is located in the centre of Rye and offers well-designed rooms, local wines and a restaurant menu infused with Mediterranean zest.
The Ship Inn
In the centre of the small, charming town of Rye, the Ship is a modern take on the traditional English inn – a cosy pub, rich in original character, with simple, comfortable en suite rooms above. Originally built in 1592, … more
The Mermaid Inn
One of England’s oldest and loveliest inns, with Norman cellars dating from 1156, the Mermaid, rebuilt in 1420, offers tradition and charm in abundance. A jewel in the crown of Rye, the inn has a wide range of accommodation including … more