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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In a heritage-listed building lying the heart of Rye, Whitehouse is a modern independent all day eatery and award winning in-house bakery. With 6 bed & breakfast rooms for overnight guests, this is the perfect place for a weekend away.

24 High Street
Rye
TN31 7JF    

Whitehouserye.co.uk

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

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.

1 High Street
Rye
TN31 7JE

puckhaberdecorativeantiques.com

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

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

The Standard, a 15th-century inn steeped in history, boasts five boutique bedrooms and a menu that blends modern British cuisine with classic pub favourites. Its charming interior reflects its heritage, featuring traditional elements like a working fireplace and exposed wooden beams. Guests can enjoy a cozy bar and restaurant, complemented by an intriguing wine list, a variety of craft beers, and local ales—including the house-brewed Standard Inn Farmer Ale.

The Mint
Rye
TN31 7EN

Thestandardinnrye.co.uk

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

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
East Sussex

A concept store curating a thoughtful selection of unisex clothing and homeware. Their mission is to provide timeless design that supports a slow living lifestyle. Carefully choosing only what they genuinely love, Sailors focus on quality pieces meant to endure for decades rather than fleeting seasons. Rejecting mass production, they frequently develop their own collections and collaborate with independent brand.

97 High St
Rye
TN31 7JN

sailorsofrye.com

Nestled in the heart of Rye, The Fig is a beloved independent café offering a warm, lively atmosphere. They serve an all-day menu celebrating local ingredients, with a focus on fresh, vibrant, and healthy dishes paired with creative cocktails. The café also features charming rooms for a complete stay.

2 High St
Rye
TN31 7JE

Thefigrye.com