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
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

Seal Spotting

Hi, I am going to Rye next week. Does anyone know where and what time is best to watch seals? … more

Fishing Trip

Can anyone recommend a fishing trip from either Rye harbour or nearby, for the last week of July. We are … more

Attractions and Activities

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

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

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. Services at Rye Harbour Church are usually on the 3rd Sunday of the month at 5pm for Evening … more

Accommodation

Rye Harbour Cottage

A cosy 2 bedroomed cottage in Rye Harbour. Offers Lounge, kitchen/dining room, shower room downstairs, with one double bedroom + one twin room upstairs. Well situated to access local places of interest and close to the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. … more

Quarter House

Enjoy historic & romantic beamed surroundings in the heart of the Medieval walled Citadel of Rye. This unusual converted Grade II listed two-storey apartment retains original features including open log fire, original wooden beams and floors dating back to the … more

Coldharbour Cottage

Coldharbour Cottage won the National Silver Award for the best Self Catering Cottage in 2010. The cottage itself has been renovated to a high standard whilst retaining many original features. The original oak beams, inglenook fireplace, old bakers oven and … more

Restaurants

Webbe’s at the Fish Café

Welcome to Webbe’s in Rye. A vibrant lively restaurant atmosphere with open plan kitchen area where you can view your meal in its creation, for serious diners and families alike. This upbeat eatery will meet your every need when you … more

River Haven Hotel

A Warm welcome awaits you at the River Haven Hotel & Restaurant. This family run comfortable Hotel of 22 en-suite rooms in the Ancient town of Rye is situated on the Strand Quay over looking the River Tillingham. Our conservatory … 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

Towns and villages near Rye Harbour …

Explore Rye Harbour ...