Rye Harbour, East Sussex
Rye Harbour in East Sussex Village Guide
About Rye Harbour, 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?
Full Throttle Boat Charters
Now in its third year our popular 1 hour Seal Safari boat trip from Rye Harbour. The trip takes you … more
Listed in: Boat Charters
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
Church of the Holy Spirit
In the churchyard stands the memorial to the men of Rye Harbour who died when the Mary Stanford lifeboat sank in 1928. The annual memorial service is on the 3rd Sunday of November at 3pm. Services at Rye Harbour Church … 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
Full Throttle Boat Charters
Now in its third year our popular 1 hour Seal Safari boat trip from Rye Harbour. The trip takes you 8 miles up the coast towards Hastings. When we arrive at Seal bay you have 15-20 mins floating amongst the … more
Accommodation
Willow Tree House
Willow Tree House is a six bedroomed house a stones throw from the centre of Rye. Set over three floors, this Grade 2 listed home sleeps 12 people. Four bedrooms are ensuite with two bedrooms on the top floor, the … more
The Lookout
The hotel occupies what can be described as a prize winning location. Perched on the East Cliff, with panoramic views across the Estuary and the Romney Marshes, yet close to the High Street filled with quaint old shops, tea rooms, … more
Jeake's House Hotel
Indulge in the unique atmosphere of Jeake’s House Hotel. Standing on one of the most beautiful cobbled streets of Rye, it has the added bonus of private car parking nearby. We are a 5 star award winning establishment in the … more
Restaurants
The Gallivant
The Gallivant Restaurant With Rooms is across the road from the dunes and the beautiful sandy beach beyond. Inspired by the coastal motels you might find in California. It is a a relaxing hideaway from the stresses and strains of … more
Haydens Coffee Shop
Fair trade and organic tea, coffee and hot chocolate. Freshly prepared breakfasts, lunches and cakes served in a warm friendly atmosphere every day. Fully licensed.
Big Guys French Fries
We’re an independent small restaurant located steps from the centre of town. We’re proud to be the favourite for locals to meet friends for a beer or call for a fresh “big guy burger”. We serve juicy big burgers and … more