Rye, Market town in East Sussex, England.
Rye is a market town in Rother, East Sussex, England, sitting on a hill above flat marshland. Streets climb toward the church and timber-framed houses lean against one another along winding lanes that lead to the central square.
Edward I granted the town Cinque Port status in the 13th century to strengthen coastal defense. As the sea retreated and silt filled the harbor, the town lost its military role and became an inland trading post.
The name comes from Old English meaning "at the island", referring to its former position when water surrounded the hill. Local festivals often feature maritime themes that recall the centuries when fishing boats crowded the wharves.
A walk through the old town takes about two hours and includes steep cobbled sections that become slippery when wet. Comfortable shoes with good grip help when navigating the uneven surfaces and narrow staircases between levels.
St. Mary's Church houses one of the oldest functioning turret clocks in England, mechanically operated since 1561. Visitors can climb the tower and watch the clockwork in action as the bells ring out over the rooftops.
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