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.

What’s new?

The Playden Oasts Inn

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

Message Board

Ralph Browning Leckie Stone

I’ve discovered that my ancestor is buried in the Playden churchyard along with his wife Nancy. I wonder if anyone … more

Finding Help with Ancestory

Hello I am on holiday from Australia and am looking for help to find info on my ancestor William Carman … more

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

Rye Water Sports

We offer lessons in Windsurfing, Sailing, Kitesurfing and Paddleboarding for children and adults, and during the Summer holidays Children’s Activity Days. It’s so easy to learn watersports with modern light equipment on our safe inland lake. We are a Royal … more

Camber Castle

Camber Castle lies between Rye and Winchelsea, and was originally located on a shingle spit which protected the approach to these towns.

Accommodation

Humphries Cross Apartments

Housed in a historic building, the recently renovated Humphries Cross Apartments provides accommodation with a garden and free WiFi.

The Lookout

The hotel occupies what can be described as a prize winning location. Perched on the East Cliff, with panoramic views across the Estuary and the Romney Marshes, yet close to the High Street filled with quaint old shops, tea rooms, … more

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

Restaurants

Flackley Ash Hotel, Restaurant & Spa

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

Big Guys French Fries

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

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.

Towns and villages near Playden …

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