Soak up the rich history of one of the UK’s most charming towns, before dipping your toes in the sand in a nearby bustling tourist hotspot
This history-rich town has also received a royal approval (Image: Getty Images)
Explore this cutesy cobbled town that will make you feel like the main character in an old-school British Rom-Com. We’re talking if Bridget Jones and The Holiday had a child. Filled with medieval and Georgian houses, timber roofs, and just a stone’s throw from a three-mile white sandy beach – Rye needs to be on your staycation bucket list.
Located near the coast in East Sussex, this picture-postcard civil parish only has an average population of 5,000, but tourists visit from all over to admire its beauty. Now a vibrant market town, Rye was once surrounded by sea and was a mere hilltop used to help defend the south coast of England.
Of course, we can’t guarantee the weather will behave, but sitting in a cosy pub after a day of museums and shops is enjoyable rain or shine. Rye also earned its regal ‘Rye Royale’ title back in 1573 when Queen Elizabeth I stayed in the town for three days.
St Mary’s Church offers stunning views of the town ( Image:
Getty Images) Experts over at Bed Threads recently compiled six British seaside towns and villages you have to visit, and it’s no surprise that Rye is featured. “Positioned next to Camber Sands on the Sussex Coast, Rye is a charming, mediaeval village that is more historical than some of the kitsch seaside resorts on this list,” Bed Threads said. “There are a number of boutique hotels drawing a crowd to the area, including The Gallivant and The George. Further in from the coast, Tillingham Winery is a 70-acre estate with home-grown produce and natural wines, whether you can either stay in the elegant hotel rooms or a bell tent in summer.”
Camber Sands could easily compete with beaches in the Caribbean ( Image:
(Image: Getty)) Rye is also home to a lively art scene, with a slew of independent interiors, antique shops, and galleries. If you’re a proper history buff, you’ll enjoy visiting the redbrick Lamb House, which was once owned by acclaimed writer Henry James. Of course, a trip to Rye isn’t complete without also spotting the iconic St Mary’s Church, and Rye Castle Museum.
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Rye is just two hours from London, but feels world’s away ( Image:
Getty Images/iStockphoto) Accommodation in Rye varies depending on your budget, meaning you can enjoy a weekend away without breaking the bank. As with any UK hotspot, visiting in the low season is a great way to lower the cost. For example, a two-night stay in the deluxe Barons Granary – a boutique B&B – will set you back £200. This is based on two adults sharing a private suite from Friday, 7 February – Sunday 9. In the summer, this accommodation would cost £40 more (based on Friday 4 July – Sunday 6).
Rye is just shy of two hours from London if you’re driving down. You’ll be quicker on the train but will have to change at least once. If you book in advance, you can grab single adult fares for around £45.
What’s your favourite staycation destination? Let us know in the comments section below