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.
Offering characterful accommodation centred around 2 East Sussex oast houses, Playden Oasts Hotel is just 1 mile from the centre … more
Listed in: Freehouse Restaurants
to Sunday, 31st March 2024 (2 day event)
St Mary's Centre, Rye
Category: Shopping Fairs and Markets
I’ve discovered that my ancestor is buried in the Playden churchyard along with his wife Nancy. I wonder if anyone … more
Hello I am on holiday from Australia and am looking for help to find info on my ancestor William Carman … more
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
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
For almost 900 years the Parish Church of Rye, dedicated to St Mary the Virgin, has dominated the hill on which the old town stands. It has stood through good times and bad. In 1377 when the town was looted … more
Housed in a historic building, the recently renovated Humphries Cross Apartments provides accommodation with a garden and free WiFi.
Mermaid Cottage is a cosy, 18th century cottage situated on the historic cobbled Mermaid Street in Rye, perfect for a relaxing break. Situated at the top of Mermaid Street, you are centrally based in the Citadel for exploring Rye and … more
Enjoy historic & romantic beamed surroundings in the heart of the Medieval walled Citadel of Rye. This unusual converted Grade II listed two-storey apartment retains original features including open log fire, original wooden beams and floors dating back to the … more
We’re an independent small restaurant located steps from the centre of town. We’re proud to be the favourite for locals to meet friends for a beer or call for a fresh “big guy burger”. We serve juicy big burgers and … more
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
Located in the Sussex countryside 4 miles from the historic town of Rye, Flackley Ash is a delightful Grade II listed Georgian country house with an award-winning restaurant, a bar and spa facilities. The hotel’s spa features various treatment rooms. … more