Rye is steeped in history and character and in the 18th Century, its prosperity relied on smuggling as much as any other trade. You can wander around Rye's cobbled streets and narrow lanes, visiting the local landmarks and variety of specialist shops, from art galleries, clothes, antiques and books.
Camber Sands is the only sand dune system in East Sussex. It is a valuable habitat for many different plants and animals and is also a popular destination for thousands of holidaymakers every year. A short drive from Rye or follow the cycle route to Camber, passing Rye Windsurfing school, ask at reception for directions.
Rye Harbour is a flat, open and historic landscape, with a Nature Reserve that can be visited from Rye, Winchelsea Beach and Rye Harbour. There are four bird watching hides to help the visitor to see some of the wealth of wildlife here. The area also contains considerable historic interest with military fortifications from the 16th, 19th and 20th centuries.
Great Dixter near Northiam is the family home of Christopher Lloyd who devoted his lifetime to creating one of the most experimental, exciting and constantly changing gardens of our time. Tenterden's High Street features a wealth of historic shops and houses dating from the 15th to 18th centuries, many with their original facades. Other attractions include the famous battlefield of 1066, the fascinating landscape of Dungeness, Bodiam Castle and Hastings Old Town. There are also numerous family attractions, namely the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch steam railway and Smugglers' Adventure (Hastings). Local cinemas are located in Hastings and Ashford.