Rye

RYE

The Antient Town of Rye was already a borough before the Domesday Survey and King Stephen established a mint here in 1141. The town is mentioned in Cinque Ports Charters from 1155. The first recorded Mayor was appointed in 1289. The first historian of the Ports, Samuel Jeake, author of ‘Charters of the Cinque Ports’ (1678), was Town Clerk of Rye from 1651 to 1661. Sir Arther Wellesley was MP for Rye from 1802 to 1806. Later, as the Duke of Wellington, he served as Lord Warden from1829 to 1852.

Ypres Tower, Rye

Cinque Ports Volunteers at Ypres Tower c1870

Today, Rye still has one of its ancient gateways (Landgate) which leads into the once-walled town and the Ypres Tower (1249). Once part of the town’s defences; before becoming a museum the tower was a prison. Fine views of Tudor and Georgian houses, old inns, interesting shops and cobbled streets may be had from the tower of the splendid St Mary’s Church. Other attractions include the Treasury of Mechanical Music, an Art Gallery and the Town Model - an historical sound and light show, based in the Heritage Centre.

Moorings are available at the Strand Quay for those preferring to visit by boat!