Rye, one of England’s most enchanting medieval towns, rises above the Romney Marshes with sweeping views, cobbled streets, and centuries-old charm. This storybook setting is matched by its hotels—cosy inns steeped in history, chic boutiques tucked into Tudor buildings, and family-friendly stays just steps from galleries and tearooms. For luxury, the heart of town offers atmospheric heritage properties, while budget-friendly and contemporary options lie on the edges, giving you a peaceful base without missing Rye’s irresistible character.

Rye is a charming little town with a fishing heritage, though it now sits slightly inland, framed by marshes and big skies. From Ypres Tower or the tower of St. Mary’s Church, you can spot the sea in the distance, and even some of Rye’s garden balconies come with sweeping water views on clear days. It’s the kind of place where you’ll happily lose a few hours wandering antique shops, pausing for excellent hot chocolate, or enjoying dinner in an historic setting. Beaches lie in both directions, and nearby you’ll find the surreal landscape of Dungeness with its tiny steam railway. The area has long inspired artists like Paul Nash, Norman Ackroyd, and Fred Cuming — and between vineyards, National Trust properties, and the ever-present sea breeze, Rye makes for an unforgettable escape.

The Best Places to Stay in Rye

For a Special Occasion

• Mermaid Street, Rye’s cobbled Tudor showpiece, is crowned by the 13th-century Mermaid Inn. Its black-and-white, lopsided facade begs for photos, while inside 31 historic rooms boast four-posters, stained glass, and fireplaces. Expect smugglers’ lore, timeless charm, and standout dining with Romney Marsh lamb and Rye Bay cod.
• Rye Windmill B&B, a Grade II-listed white smock windmill, offers ten delightful rooms—two in the tower, the rest in the ‘skirt’. Tower suites promise sweeping views, but all guests enjoy hearty breakfasts, free parking, and a prime spot near Rye’s restaurants and bars.

For a Quirky Stay

• Opposite The Mermaid Inn, Jeake's House offers 11 eccentric rooms and suites with four-posters, antiques, and moody corners. Theatrical and memorable, it’s not for minimalists—but hearty breakfasts of salmon, kippers, kidneys, and more make this quirky Rye stay unforgettable.

For a Beach Break

• Ten minutes from Rye at Camber Sands, The Gallivant transforms a 1960s motel into a chic New England–style retreat. Expect 18 breezy rooms with stripes and white floorboards, a stylish restaurant, and laid-back spaces just steps from windswept golden beaches.

For a Mini-Break

• A 16th-century gem turned stylish inn, The George in Rye blends bold decor, vintage finds, and statement wallpaper across 34 unique rooms. Highlights include copper bathtubs and family-friendly Haystack suites. Its lively gastropub and restaurant make it as much a local hotspot as a stay.
• Above a buzzing bakery on Rye’s main street, Whitehouse is a fresh, light-filled B&B. Whitewashed beams, exposed tiles, fireplaces, and a cleverly reimagined attic keep heritage intact while adding architectural flair—perfect for design lovers seeking charm with their morning pastries. 

For Great Value

• Once a 16th-century warehouse—likely tied to smuggling—The Ship Inn is now a pub-with-rooms full of beams, nooks, and cellars. Ten airy, fuss-free rooms sit above a Michelin-recommended restaurant. Child-friendly, characterful and affordable, it’s a Rye stay with stories to tell. 
• In Rye’s heart, The Standard Inn (c.15th century) offers five characterful rooms with deep baths, beams, and brick walls. Its pub and restaurant glow with open hearths, wood floors, and a welcoming atmosphere—ideal for soaking up the town’s historic charm. An affordable base.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• London’s airports are the closest for Rye: Heathrow is on the right side of London, though if you’re travelling the rest of your route by train you still have to go via one of the central London stations, and Rye is an hour and a half but train from London St. Pancras. Rye is also about an hour and a half away from Heathrow by taxi or car. Gatwick Airport or London City Airport offer similar convenience, because if you’re using rail for your onwards journey they all pass through central London.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• This is the UK, so expect changeable weather whatever the season. Rye is popular in summer, of course, when the average maximum temperatures are around 20°C. But it’s also beautiful in spring and autumn — if you don’t mind a chill and a bit of a shower or two. Winter is wonderful if you like things to be ‘bracing’. Rye’s charms run past the historic architecture to relaxed shopping, and restaurants, the nearby beach, spectacular views, and the wonderful atmosphere, all of which make it a year-round favourite.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include our recommendations for the best places to stay in East Sussex,
• Refine your search by accommodation type and explore the most romantic hotels in East Sussex or the best Pubs-with-Rooms,
• Consider the best places to stay in Hastings, just along the coastline,
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.