Playden
Playden in East Sussex Village Guide
About Playden in East Sussex
Playden village lies about a mile to the north of Rye. A visitor could be forgiven for passing by unaware of its existence, as the village has no centre. There are no shops and the houses are scattered over the rural parish.
Nevertheless there has been a settlement in Playden since the New Stone Age 4000 years ago. Playden, or Saltcote as it was once known, is mentioned in the Domesday Book and at one time had a thriving fish salting industry.
The picturesque church of St Michael stands at the top of the hill, and is an excellent example of a small Norman/Early English church. The spire, which can be seen peeping through the trees, is cedar shingled and on top rests a large lead cross. Inside amongst other things is carved screen dating from the fourteenth century.
Attractions and Activities
St Michael’s Church
St Michael’s is mentioned in the Domesday Survey, and sits near the summit of the plateau in which much of the parish of Playden is found. The Friends of Playden Church is a registered charity dedicated to helping to maintain … more
Ebike and Cycle Hire
Electric fat bike hire and pedal cycles. Over 20 miles of off road cycle path nearby. Based in Camber Sands. Childrens’ pedal bikes available. Whole, half day or weekly rates, book online. Min age for ebikes is 14, although we … more
Rye Museum: Ypres Tower
The Rye Museum has two sites, the Ypres Tower (early 14th century) and the East Street site. The Tower has had many roles in its history from a fortification to protect the town, to a private dwelling, a prison and … more
Accommodation
Humphries Cross Apartments
Housed in a historic building, the recently renovated Humphries Cross Apartments provides accommodation with a garden and free WiFi.
Landgate Cottage
15th century cottage opposite the medieval Landgate arch. Refurbished with to modern standard, retaining period features. Landgate Cottage has a cosy woodfire, pretty courtyard and WIFI. Close to galleries, restaurants, National Trust properties and wonderful beaches.
Rye Windmill B&B
Rye’s white smock windmill is a grade II listed building and one of its most famous landmarks. Tucked away in one of England’s quaintest coastal towns, our welcoming Bed and Breakfast is ideally located with the High Street and the … more
Restaurants
The Mermaid Inn
One of England’s oldest and loveliest inns, with Norman cellars dating from 1156, the Mermaid, rebuilt in 1420, offers tradition and charm in abundance. A jewel in the crown of Rye, the inn has a wide range of accommodation including … more
Haydens Coffee Shop
Fair trade and organic tea, coffee and hot chocolate. Freshly prepared breakfasts, lunches and cakes served in a warm friendly atmosphere every day. Fully licensed.
The Ship Inn
In the centre of the small, charming town of Rye, the Ship is a modern take on the traditional English inn – a cosy pub, rich in original character, with simple, comfortable en suite rooms above. Originally built in 1592, … more