12 Oct Things to do for wedding anniversary

Things to do for wedding anniversary in Rye

A Romantic Itinerary

Nestled atop a sandstone hill above the marshes, Rye is one of England’s most beautifully preserved medieval towns — its crooked, cobbled lanes, timber-framed houses, historic inns and riverside views lend it an enduring air of romance. Saltcote Place is tucked discreetly into the tapestry of Rye, it is already loved by mature couples, in part for its reputation as a child free venue and also because it solves the parking challenge that can sometimes deter visitors.

Below is a curated “things to do” list that blends relaxed exploration, surprising discoveries, and memorable meals — ideal for a few days of anniversary ideas.

1. Wander the Cobblestones of Mermaid, Watchbell and Wish Street

Start light: simply lose yourselves in Rye’s maze of medieval alleys. Streets like Mermaid Street (often hailed as one of the town’s most photogenic) invite you to slow strolls, lingering at crooked doors, leaded windows, and hidden corners. Keep an eye out for the bar at the Mermaid Inn or perhaps enjoy a snack during the day, a Rye “new build” rebuilt in 1420 after a devastating fire whose cellars date to 1156 and which has a host of ghost stories connected to smuggling days.

These gentle walks let you soak in the ambiance — no rush, just discovery by foot.

2. Visit the Tower of St Mary’s Church for Panoramic Views

High above it all sits St Mary the Virgin church, dominating the skyline of Rye for over 900 years. Pay a small fee, to climb the narrow stairs, and be rewarded with sweeping views over rooftops, the River Rother, Romney Marsh and Saltcote Place and out toward the harbour and coast.  On a fine evening, the fading light makes this moment especially romantic.

3. Step into the Past at Rye Heritage Centre & Ypres Tower

Delve deeper into Rye’s story at Rye Heritage Centre, located on The Strand just down from Mermaid Street where a vintage scale model of the town features a sound & light show that brings past centuries alive.

Then head to Ypres Tower a former women’s prison (often called Rye Castle Museum which has two sites), a 13th-century stronghold built to protect Rye from invasions. Explore its rooms, artefacts, and climb the tower for views of the marshes. Remember Captain Pugwash? John and Priscilla lived in Rye and the had drawn images in books for children all depict Rye landmarks including Ypres Tower, St Mary’s, Mermaid street and of course the Town hall – they all have different names in the books.

These spots provide offer a calm and relaxed and interesting look into the background of this ancient medieval town with all due consideration for our culture, history, and character.

4. Visit Lamb House, A Literary and National Trust Gem

Not far from the calm bustle of Rye High street lies Lamb House, now a National Trust property, once home to writers including Henry James, E. F. Benson and Rumer Godden. Its garden, elegant rooms, and literary aura offer a restful and refined stop. It’s ideal for those slower paced moments — tea in the garden, wandering among old roses, reading inscriptions, soaking in ambience.

As you return to Rye high street you could go via Lion Street from St Mary’s where you will find a number of art galleries and old book shops.

5. If nature your thing, explore Rye Harbour

Rye Harbour Nature Reserve — a tranquil coastal stretch with salt marsh, shingle, lagoons and five bird-hides, set along miles of paths.  It’s peaceful, wide open, with nature to observe and accessible using mobility vehicles in good weather as it is a flat level walk and the Discovery centre offers refreshment and an accessible ramp if needed.

In fine weather for something woodier and more enclosed, try Flatropers Wood (also known as Beckley Forest) a 38-hectare reserve managed by Sussex Wildlife Trust see Wikipedia here you can wander under oak, birch and chestnut, with plenty of wildlife and quiet paths.

These options contrast beautifully with the town’s historic core — a mix of open and intimate nature interludes.

6. Try Camber Castle & Nearby Coastal Walks

Just a mile away across marshland lies Camber Castle, a Henry VIII era artillery fort in surprisingly good condition. Reachable on foot via a pleasant walk (In the summer and fine weather) through the Rye Harbour reserve, this little fortress rewards the effort with solitude and history.

From Rye, you can also walk along the coastline or across the marsh, or head toward Camber Sands — a stretch of golden dunes and beach just a short drive (or walk) away. A sunrise or sunset walk along the beach is a simple, evocative memory-maker and then return to Saltcote Place for a memorable breakfast from 9am.

7. Stop for Tea, Coffee and Galleries or Shopping for mementoes

Between your explorations, Rye’s independent shops, art galleries, antique dealers and bookstores invite browsing.  With so many lovely independent shops it’s worth seeking them out.

Don’t miss Knoops, a venerable and respected name in Rye, they offer excellent hot chocolate and treats and from Rye under the leadership of Jens Knoops who launched a global business from here.

Time your afternoons to discover tucked-away galleries or artisan shops (pottery, prints, crafts) in the back streets where the tourist flow is lighter.

8. Dine Well: Historic Inns, Fine Food & Wine

Rye has a strong culinary scene. Start perhaps with The Mermaid Inn on a Monday — not just for its historic ambiance (timber beams, candlelit corners, centuries of stories) but also for its AA Rosette restaurant and classic British/French menu and the link below for

For something different, consider dining in the nearby Tillingham Winery or Chapel Down vineyards, both a short drive from Rye — vineyard settings with wine tastings, garden ambiance and food drawn from local producers.

In the evenings, choose from a wide range charming restaurants or hidden taverns, perhaps even a candlelit dinner in a nook somewhere quiet. The mood of Rye, lit by lamplight and quiet, is its own enchantment.

9. Gentle Day Trips Around Rye

If you have extra time and want to head further afield:

• Bodiam Castle: the fairy-tale castle in a moat, reachable by car or train + taxi, makes a delightful excursion. (Often cited in local one day-trip suggestions) accessed by public transport with access to the Kent and East Sussex Light Railway that runs from Tenterden.

• Hastings Country Park is excellent for dramatic coastline walks and sea views and you may get to see the seals again easily accessed by public transport using the Stagecoach app.

• Winchelsea and its ancient church: nearby and quiet, with marsh views and historic modest charms and the resting place of “I told you I was ill” do you know who that is?

• Vineyard trails: mix in a wine tour, we will happily arrange some vineyard visits for you.

10. Evening Delights & Quiet Moments

• Book one of our many excellent restaurants https://saltcote.co.uk/where-to-eat-in-rye/

• Take a twilight walk through the streets when lanterns glow, the shops are quiet, and the old alleys feel enchanted.

• Book a private wine tasting or cheese pairing (some local operators may accommodate intimate sessions depending on the date of your visit).

• Enjoy after-dinner live music at the Grapevine an excellent and classy Jazz bar just off the High st.

• Simply retreat to Saltcote with a bottle of wine, some local treats, and stare at the stars or quietly read together.

Sample 2-Day Anniversary Itinerary

Day 1

• Arrive, settle in to Saltcote Place with a glass of wine

• Light lunch and wander through Mermaid Street / alleys

• Climb St Mary’s for views

• Tea break + gallery browsing

• Afternoon at Rye Heritage Centre & Ypres Tower

• Dinner at one of our many fine restaurants

Day 2

• Early walk to Rye Harbour Reserve and return for breakfast at Saltcote Place for 9am?

• Visit Lamb House

• Lunch, then walk out to Camber Castle, the nature reserve or along the beach

• Return; relax, freshen up

• Explore some of the local vineyards or nearby Cinque ports

• After dark stroll through quiet and safe lanes of Rye

If weather turns, fall back options: more galleries, extended lunch, or just downtime in atmospheric corners of Rye and the Kino digital cinema offers the very latest of films with a glass of wine and nibbles.

Why Rye Works Especially for Mature Couples

• Safe and low-crime environment: you can wander freely without worry.

• Slower pace, no need to cram in everything: the charm is in the quiet, the hidden, the details.

• Historic depth: 300+ listed buildings, centuries of stories, layers to discover.

• Parking convenience at Saltcote Place with amazing reviews: sidestepping the main parking stress makes the stay more restful with a very short walk into Rye of around 700 yards.

• Blend of nature, history, food & ease: you don’t have to drive for everything — many experiences are walkable or short journeys.