The Hope Anchor Hotel

One of the best preserved medieval towns in England, Rye is home to the enchanting cobbled Mermaid Street, the impressive Norman church of St Mary's, a rich selection of specialist shops and a thriving fishing fleet. The famous Mermaid Inn was once the haunt of notorious smugglers, the Hawkhurst Gang as was The Hope Anchor who housed the Tenterden Gang, both of which fought each other for spoils (Much as it is now!). Camber Castle, built by Henry VIII is located in the dramatic Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. Rye was once surrounded on three sides by the sea and its maritime heritage dates back to Norman times. To defend it against frequent attacks from the French, Rye became an 'ancient town' of the powerful Cinque Ports Confederation and soon became a smugglers paradise.

Take time to discover its architectural treasures and narrow passageways.