WELCOME TO RYE, EAST SUSSEX
Cast your mind back almost a thousand years in history and you can imagine the humble beginnings of the wonderful medieval market town of Rye in East Sussex. Rye is recognised as the jewel on the South Coast of England. It’s one of most beautiful and historic towns that has survived through the many changing faces of the past.
Rye was to become a limb of the famous Cinque Ports Confederation, and was once a major defensive stronghold to protect our trade between northern Europe and repel our French neighbours from attacking our shores. Rye was almost entirely surrounded by the sea and the ancient tradition of fishing from the town still survives to this day.
Places to Stay
Rye and the surrounding towns and countryside boast a wealth of attractive and welcoming accommodation and camping options.
These campsites are within easy reach of Rye and provide great facilities for festival goers. There’s parking in town and we’ve also listed some local taxi number for your use during the festival.
Hare & Hounds - Boutique B & B and campsite is 2 miles from Rye.
Dogwood Camping - Pet friendly and about 10 miles from Rye in the stunning East Sussex countryside.
Park Holidays - Great family facilities in Rye Harbour and Winchelsea Beach. Both a short drive from central Rye. Welcoming campers and touring vehicles with advance bookings.
Pitch Up - Booking & information for camping sites in East Sussex, Kent and beyond.
Have you thought about booking an Airbnb in the area? So many great options to choose from whether you’re looking for a cosy cottage for two to whole house for your family or group of friends.
This one a couple of miles outside Rye looks great for families or a group!
Below are some options for places to stay in Rye. Ranging from first class hotels, boutique B&Bs and self-catering accommodation - there’s something to suit all tastes and budgets. We have highlighted our main festival hotel and holiday letting partners as well as links to sites providing full accommodation listings.
Our lovely friends at VISIT RYE BAY have some more great accommodation ideas for you and provide lots of information on other things to do in Rye and surrounding areas throughout the year.
Parking and transport
TRAIN
Train services
We’ve tried to make your Train journey easier by detailing the last trains below. These are subject to change though so please always check your route and times at www.nationalrail.co.uk or www.southernrailway.com
Thursday to Monday* - Rye to London Stations via Ashford
Last train leaves 21:56
Friday to Monday* - Rye to Brighton via Hastings (change for Tonbridge/Tunbridge Wells/Sevenoaks/Gatwick) Bexhill, Eastbourne, Lewes
Last train leaves 21:57
* Trains depart 20 minutes earlier on Sunday night
From Europe: Eurostar from France runs through to Ashford International (21-minute connection on Southern trains) or drive from France and use the Eurotunnel to Folkestone.
ROAD & PARKING
Rye is on the A259 between Hastings to the West and Folkestone to the East and on the A268 from the North.
Click here for Google Maps.
For a map of Rye Town centre including car parks click here .
TAXI
If you live or are staying fairly locally to Rye or are staying regionally and wish to leave your car at home or park overnight within Rye, then we recommend the following taxi company to assist you in your homebound journey.
247 247 - Regional Taxi service
01424 247 247
We strongly recommend that you book in advance.
Places to Eat
Whether you’re after a coffee and cake, light lunch or a substantial supper, you will find Rye crammed with places to satisfy every possible taste and craving. Plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans, seafood lovers and the best of locally reared meats.
Explore the streets and you will find yourself irresistibly drawn towards cosy inns, tea rooms, fine restaurants, music filled pubs and hotel bars. Carry on hundreds of years of tradition where smugglers planned and pirates plotted and where Rye folk enjoyed a great night out.
We have listed below partner festival restaurants, cafe’s and bars who all be happy to welcome you!