Now, don't get me wrong, I love Cornwall, quite possibly more than any other place in the UK but when I saw TikToks of mile long queues getting into the county it made me rethink my annual summer trip down to the coast. And if you're feeling equally dubious about spending your precious annual leave days in bumper to bumper traffic, then I have an equally picturesque and characterful holiday destination to put you onto that won't leave you wondering why you ever decided to get on the A303.
Earlier this summer I travelled to the Sussex town of Rye for a quintessential country and seaside escape, and could not stop raving about it upon my return to busy London. With vineyards, cobbled streets packed with history and eclectic interiors shops, along with a thriving restaurant scene, it's a town I'll want to revisit year after year.
And as we approach the August Bank Holiday, there's not a better place I can think of to spend a long weekend. Here's how I'd spend a few days in Rye.
What to do in Rye
Explore the history of the town
If you've ever Googled Rye you'll likely have seen images of the iconic Mermaid Street, a hilled cobbled street filled with history and a mixture of Georgian, Medieval and Tudor homes. It's well worth an exploration and soaking up the historic atmosphere, as well as a stop in the The Mermaid Inn, which dates back to the Tudor era.
There's also many other sites to tick off too including Lamb House, where Henry James once resided and the Rye Castle Museum.
Go to the harbour
Rye is a great town to visit as it combines both a quaint countryside village and access to the water. A short walk from the main town is Rye Harbour, ideal for a sunset drink as you overlook the water and boats.
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Go shopping
One of my favourite things to do in Rye is explore the multitude of independent shops and galleries. Some of the best spots include:
- Rae Store
- Rye Art Gallery
- Soap and Salvation
- Needles Antique Centre
Head to the beach
A short drive or long walk (around an hour) from Rye is the stunning beach of Camber Sands. Going on for miles, the golden sand and clear blue sea make it the perfect place to spend the day by the sea, or to start the day off with. And while you're there make to stop off at Leo's Coffee for their signature toasted banana bread. I'm honestly still thinking about it.
Take a few sips at a winery
One of the most famous attractions for Rye is undoubtedly the nearby vineyard of Tillingham. They're a natural and biodynamic wine producer in East Sussex, and are available for tours, tasting and even over-night stays.
Where to eat and drink in Rye
Whitehouse
This is one of my favourite spots for brunch and baked treats. Based in the main high street of Rye, their halloumi has and salmon hash are not to be missed. Nor are their varied selection of pastries and cakes.
The Fig
Another great day spot (although they do also offer a dinner menu) The Fig is a small and delicious spot. Make sure to order the prawn tacos for a light and refreshing lunch.
Marino's Fish Bar
It wouldn't be a summer trip away without a fish and chips, and Marino's Fish Bar is an iconic spot to try while in Rye. It's a classic chippie, with all the must-have condiments and crispy chips and fish.
The Winery
If you don't want to splash out on a full wine tasting tour at one of the nearby vineyards, a great alternative is to head to The Winery. Located in the heart of Rye, The Winery offers a self-guided wine flight with no booking required, just turn up and try a selection of four wines. They also do great pizzas and oysters!
The Grapevine
For all your after dinner plans, head to the Champagne jazz bar The Grapevine for signature cocktails and live performances. There's a really chic and moody atmosphere as you head down the stairs to the red-lit room, filled with black and white photos and leopard print galore. Make sure to order at least one espresso martini and a glass of champagne.
Getting to Rye
If using public transport to travel to Rye, there is no direct train from London to Rye, but you can catch a train to Ashford International and change there for regular trains to Rye.
If travelling by car there are a number of car parks available throughout the town.
Lydia Venn is Cosmopolitan UK’s Senior Entertainment and Lifestyle Writer. She covers everything from TV and film, to the latest celebrity news. She also writes across our work/life section regularly creating quizzes, covering exciting new food releases and sharing the latest interior must-haves. In her role she’s interviewed everyone from Margot Robbie to Niall Horan, and her work has appeared on an episode of The Kardashians. After completing a degree in English at the University of Exeter, Lydia moved into fashion journalism, writing for the Daily Express, before working as Features Editor at The Tab, where she spoke on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour and Talk Radio. She has an encyclopedic knowledge of Gilmore Girls and 00s teen movies, and in her free time can be found with a margarita in hand watching the Real Housewives on repeat. Find her on LinkedIn.
