Rye – England (Jul 25)

With temperatures well into the upper 20s we headed for one of my favourite English towns – Rye.

This is a very special place – England at its very best.

So much history here, with this small coastal town forming part of the original confederation of Cinque Ports, established centuries ago for military and trade purposes – those pesky French raiders again!

It was also a chance to try out our newest toy, a Thule roof tent!

We checked into a campsite on the outside of Rye, grabbed some lunch and headed in by bike.

Rye’s cobblestone roads and timber framed buildings date back several hundred years which give it such an amazing feel.

This place has a timeless quality about it, and coming slightly out of high season was a real treat. We occasionally found ourselves completely alone.

We headed for our favourite real ale and cider pub called Ypres Castle Inn, it is a no nonsense old fashioned pub, with a focus on quality of beer.

After a swift pint we headed off to Camber Sands along the coastal bicycle path…

Grapevine – Jazz bar

We spent the evening in The Grapevine and couldn’t recommend it highly enough. It’s our second visit here over the years and now on our go-to list if ever we are in the area.

This has got to be one of the nicest places to spend an evening, great wine (or cocktails if that’s your preference) and fantastic music.

The night we visited, the Grapevine had a singer called Victoria Bass behind the microphone. She nailed every song she performed, with songs taken from every era – 1920’s to modern day. Voice of an angel!

It’s also nice to go somewhere where the sound levels are sensible.

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We had earlier popped onto The George for a quick refreshing drink and to get changed. It has a great courtyard at the back, especially in this weather!

Our cycle back to the campsite was interesting to say the least.

Hints and Tips

Evening Bars: Grapevine Jazz bar, book a table in advance on weekends or the summer.

Daytime Bar – Ypres Castle, focus on good quality ale and ciders.

Accommodation: Hare and Hounds Campsite clean with everything set up for a good stay, great showers, washing facilities – perfect for a night or two. The cycle is 20 minutes to Rye. Just don’t come back in the dark! And take their recommended route, the roads are quiet!