Book a cottage in medieval Rye, East Sussex

April 8, 2015

Medieval town of Rye. Credit: Alex Hare/VisitEngland

Want a little privacy on your next British travel adventure? Then why not book your own cottage, such as this impossibly cute one in the medieval town of Rye, in East Sussex.

Once upon a time, the fortified medieval hilltop town of Rye, East Sussex, was surrounded by sea and played an important role in the defence of the south coast of England. Its name is believed to originate from the Norman French rie, meaning a bank, and its prosperity can be traced back to Roman times and its significance in terms of the Roman iron industry.

Its association with the sea is long-standing, from providing ships for the service of the King in time of war, to acting as a hub for 18^th- and 19^th-century smuggling gangs; the notorious Hawkhurst Gang used The Mermaid Inn (itself dating back to 1156) and The Olde Bell Inn, connected by secret passageways.

Nowadays, the history of the town is still palpable, which plays a large part in its appeal but it is also a vibrant market town and a popular tourist destination. Trinket-filled antique shops, tea rooms and cosy English pubs line the cobbled streets, meaning there is plenty to see and do but it still remains a quiet holiday haven. St Mary’s church tower is perfect for views across the terracotta roofs of the ancient timbered houses to the sea and Rye Castle and the Gun Garden are key attractions.

Easter Cottage books, Rye — Shelves of books in Easter Cottage, Rye

And right in the middle lies Easter Cottage, a truly special hideaway whose location is ideal for exploring the town.

A 17^th-century Grade II listed building, Easter Cottage boasts a stylish boutique décor but in keeping with its traditional aesthetic. It retains all of its best period features, including wooden floors, beams, open fireplaces and chocolate-box windows, while the bright blue walls, bookcases filled with vintage editions of Dickens, and quirky curiosities, and warm hued upholstery are charmingly unique.

The interior of Easter Cottage has just been refurbished so has all the mod cons you might need, as well as a sumptuous Moroccan Lounge-esque loft, and the deli just across the street sells lots of lovely local delicacies – fresh apple juice, cakes, pies and much more, making this a great home from home.