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United Kingdom
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Rother
Rye

Mermaid Street and the Mermaid Inn, Rye

Highlight • Historical Site

Mermaid Street and the Mermaid Inn, Rye

Hiking

5.0

(132)

Road cycling

4.5

(20)

Cycling

5.0

(2)

The town of Rye is two miles from the sea and in its past was involved with smuggling, was a shipyard and dockyard and was once an island! The Mermaid Inn was built in 1156 and is thought that it is connected by a secret passageway to the Olde Bell Inn.

Mermaid Street, a beautiful cobbled street, is one of Rye’s most photographed streets and is definitely worth the visit. There are many other winding paths and streets as well as historic buildings, which make it seem like the town has stopped in time in its medieval past.

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  • Location: Rye, Rother, East Sussex, South East England, England, United Kingdom

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    Tips

    May 28, 2018

    Hiking

    The Mermaid Inn is one of England's oldest inns. The sign says that it was rebuilt in 1420. The oldest part of the building is the cellars, cut from rock, …

    May 25, 2023

    Hiking

    Old houses line the streets to the left and right, the surface of which is made of pebbles.
    Translated by

    August 14, 2023

    Road cycling

    The historic coastal town of Rye is great to visit with or without a bike. In addition to the main street, there are several cobbled streets. Hard cycling does not fit here given the many walkers, but it is certainly interesting to cycle along here.
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    Nearby routes

    Best routes near Mermaid Street and the Mermaid Inn, Rye

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    3.9

    (15)

    99

    hikers

    #1.

    Rye Town loop from Camber Sands — Rye Harbour Nature Reserve

    11.1km

    02:50

    30m

    30m

    Embark on the Rye Town loop from Camber Sands — Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, a moderate hiking route that blends coastal beauty with historical charm. This trail covers 6.9 miles (11.1 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 101 feet (31 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 49 minutes to complete. You will experience varied terrain, from the shingle beaches and sand dunes of Camber Sands to the flat footpaths of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, and finally the cobbled streets and gentle slopes of historic Rye town, offering views of ancient rooftops and the surrounding landscape.

    Planning your visit, you can expect generally accessible paths, with many sections within the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve being well-marked and suitable for most abilities. The route seamlessly transitions between expansive saltmarshes, saline lagoons, and reedbeds, providing a constantly changing visual experience. Be prepared for walking along shingle beaches and past saltmarshes, especially on the stretch from Camber Sands to Rye Harbour. The trail is suitable for a wide range of hikers, though its length and varied surfaces classify it as moderate.

    This loop is particularly notable for its exceptional biodiversity, as Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is home to over 4,355 species of plants and animals, making it a haven for birdwatchers. You will also encounter significant historical landmarks, including Martello Towers, World War II pillboxes, and the 16th-century Camber Castle, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area's defensive past. Rye itself is a charming medieval town, formerly one of the Cinque Ports, adding a rich cultural layer to your outdoor adventure.

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    Moderate
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    4.7

    (12)

    62

    hikers

    Embark on the Winchelsea Town & Beach loop from Rye, a moderate hiking route that spans 10.7 miles (17.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 237 feet (72 metres). This journey, typically completed in about 4 hours and 25 minutes, takes you through a captivating mix of historic towns and coastal landscapes. You will wander through the ancient streets of Rye and Winchelsea, enjoying views of Rye Bay, before traversing scenic marshland and the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, where you might spot the intriguing "The Watcher" sculpture along the 1066 Country Walk section.

    When planning your visit, be prepared for varied terrain that includes hiking paths, roads, and footpaths. Surfaces range from asphalt to natural, unpaved sections, and some areas can become quite muddy, especially after rain, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is highly recommended. While generally accessible, you should expect to encounter some stiles and gentle hills throughout the route, adding to the adventure without being overly strenuous.

    This trail offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, set within the medieval High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. As you hike, you will pass through charming towns with ancient buildings and cobbled streets, and discover historical landmarks like the Strand Gate in Winchelsea, providing glimpses into the area's rich past. The diverse ecosystem of the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve also makes this route a notable experience for those interested in coastal wildlife and conservation.

    Moderate
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    Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

    Easy

    Details

    Informations

    Elevation 20 m

    Weather

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    Monday 1 June

    19°C

    13°C

    52 %

    Additional weather tips

    Max wind speed: 28.0 km/h

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    Location: Rye, Rother, East Sussex, South East England, England, United Kingdom

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