MERCHANT & MILLS -

Established in 2010 by Carolyn Denham and Roderick Field, the partners founded Merchant & Mills to bring style to the often overlooked world of sewing. A treasure trove of original sewing patterns, fabrics sourced from all over the world, sewing notions and tools, it’s worth a visit whether you sew or not.

They also do courses, ranging from one day to more intense courses which give you the opportunity to stay at the newly renovated Merchant & Mills house in the heart of Rye.

14A TOWER STREET
Rye, East Sussex
TN31 7AT

Merchantandmills.com

Tillingham -

A natural and biodynamic wine producer, Tillingham is set amongst 70 acres of rolling hills and woodlands with incredible views. A great restaurant, the best pizza’s for miles which are cooked in their outdoor pizza oven, a wine tour, rooms…. A favourite place of ours for dinner or drinks, we had our wedding reception here and it was magical.

Dew Farm
Dew Lane
Peasmarsh
TN31 6X

Tillingham.com

The Union -

A restaurant and bar set in a beautiful 15th century building at the heart of Rye. The food is guided by the seasons, primarily using British produce and working with local suppliers to ensure they always source the very best ingredients. Another favourite of ours, their small plate menu changes regularly and everything is delicious.

8 East Street
Rye, East Sussex
TN31 7JY

Theunionrye.co.uk

The Plough -

A 17th century country pub with picturesque views of the Brede Valley, serving comforting fare and classic British dishes. Sister to The Union, The Plough has the same high standards but within a pub atmosphere. Their garden is lovely too and you can eat outside in Summer.

UDIMORE ROAD
RYE
TN31 6AL

theploughrye.co.uk

The Fig

Originally opened as a day time cafe by local resident Rosie Furnival, the Fig now also serves dinner and cocktails. Rosie has competed in Masterchef The Professionals (and did really well!), and it’s easy to see why - her food is full of flavours inspired by her travels and offers something for everyone. For us, The Fig has the most consistently good menu, and the service is always excellent.

2 High Street,

Rye,

TN31 7JE

thefigrye.com

MCCULLY AND CRANE -

Situated in a 19th-century merchant’s warehouse on Cinque Ports Street, McCully & Crane established their business over 10 years ago, creating a vibrant gallery like no other. Firmly blurring the lines between art and interiors, they offer a relaxed and welcoming environment where beautifully crafted and cleverly re-worked statement furniture, lighting and unique objet trouvé can be found amongst walls covered with original artworks.

27 CINQUE PORTS ST
Rye
TN31 7AD

Mccullyandcrane.com

The George

A mixture of distinct contemporary and Georgian style, their recent renovation has crafted the George into a luxury retreat. Popular for their charcoal fired grill, their restaurant is a perfect spot to cosy up for some afternoon tea by their fireplace. If you’re staying in their luxury rooms, they offer spa treatments for a relaxing stay. The courtyard garden is open throughout the summer, an idillic venue for a drink of local wine from Chapel Down.

98 High Street

Rye

TN31 7JT

thegeorgeinrye.com

SOAP AND SALVATION -

A space which celebrates design and creativity with its foundation in things that have had a past life. Encompassing shop, display space, library and learning place, Soap & Salvation is all about experience and inspiration and Jo and Barry have an amazing eye for layering texture and colour. Set in the old Salvation Army building which in itself is worth a visit, you’ll find a beautiful selection of textiles, pottery and furniture.

18-22 ROPE WALK
Rye, East Sussex
TN31 7NA

soapandsalvation.com

Camber Castle

Standing between Rye and Winchelsea on an area of reclaimed land known as the Brede Plain, Camber Castle, previously known as Winchelsea Castle, is unusual in that its first stage predates Henry VIII’s later plan for the chain of forts that would protect the English coastline. Start on Harbour Road and take a right down the path after you’ve crossed the bridge. The walk will then take you into fields (bear in mind there are sheep so dogs should be on a lead).

HARBOUR RD
Rye, East Sussex
TN36 4JS

English-heritage.org.uk

Puckhaber

A well established antiques and art dealer that specialise in decorative objects and furniture. Mother and son duo Jackie and Martin travel extensively to source a collection of unique antiques. This bright and airy space complements their pieces perfectly and they have also added a lifestyle range to their offering.

The Shop

1 High Street,

Rye

TN31 7JE

puckhaberdecorativeantiques.com

The Kino

Located in a restored Church, The Kino Cinema offers screenings in their state of the art cinema with big, comfy chairs, a cafe and an outdoor space.

3 Lion Street

Rye

TN31 7LB

kinodigital.co.uk

Dungeness

If you want to venture a little further than Rye into special surroundings, Dungeness is a must stop. Famous for its desolate landscape, it has vast stretches of abandoned fishing boats and expansive sea views. At first glance it looks bleak, dotted with wooden homes and gravel pits. On closer look it is home to a variety of wildlife, attracting migratory flocks and rare species. Its a photographers dream; with film director Derek Jarman’s house and a spectacular nuclear power station to explore (we recommend staying for sunset for the best shots!).

Dungeness road

romney Marsh

TN29 9PN

dungeness.org.uk

Dot Cottage

Looking out onto the historic landgate of Rye Citadel, a few minutes from the station, is Dot Cottage, a small but perfectly formed little house. Dot is not a modern retreat, loved for its mixture of imperfections and history holding it together. It’s filled with a trove of colourful interiors and eclectic antiques put together by the lovely Catherine. Its the perfect getaway for a cosy retreat.

LANDGATE, RYE

Dot Cottage.com

Winchelsea Beach

Leaving medieval Rye, Winchelsea Beach is popular amongst locals for being one of the rare undeveloped parts of the south coast. Its shingle landscape is known as “The Ridges” - encompassing peaceful beaches, it can be a good spot for a swim. We recommend walking walk along its sea wall eastwards, following the River Rother towards Rye and returning across the field past Camber Castle.

TN36 4NG

Sailors Of Rye

One of the newest additions to Rye’s High Street, Sailors of Rye is a concept store bringing a collection of sustainable unisex clothing, homeware and gifts. They focus on collaborating with independent brands that celebrate a slower living lifestyle. The space, located next to The George Hotel, always looks gorgeous,