The UK hidden gem 2 miles from the sea that was once a pirate port

A stunning little town with cobbled streets and well-preserved medieval architecture used to be a pirate port. Rye, located in East Sussex just two miles from the sea, was once by the water and, according to some reports, an island.

It is one of the most complete medieval towns still remaining in England today and was once a royal dockyard and shipyard - the naval base for royal galleys.

Rye Museum explains that, in 1336, together with Winchelsea, Rye provided half of the ships and mariners of the medieval Cinque Ports and was once an important member of the Cinque Ports confederation.

Most famously, however, Rye was once a pirate port in the 13th century, long holding a reputation for smuggling tirades and other atrocities. 

In fact, by the 18th century, Rye was notorious for being the smuggling capital of England, with a rumoured past that included locals being warned to shut their eyes, ears and doors as the sounds of pistols firing filled the streets. 

The Mermaid Inn and the Olde Bell on the Mint were said to be a regular haunt for the infamous Hawkhurst Gang back in the 1730s, with rumours of secret tunnels used by the gangs for smuggling goods to the port still lurking beneath the town’s historic buildings.

Must-visit spots here include the redbrick Lamb House which was once owned by writer Henry James with other noteworthy places including the Norman St. Mary’s Church and the 14th-century Ypres Tower, which formed part of Rye’s defences.

Today it is known as Rye Castle Museum offering awe-inspiring displays and paintings where you can discover more of the region’s rich local history.

The town also overlooks the meandering River Rother and Romney Marsh which all offers a relaxed and memorable break like no other.

One review on TripAdvisor wrote of the magic that is Rye and said: “This medieval town complete with cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and ancient inns is the stuff of dreams.”