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
Church of the Holy Spirit
In the churchyard stands the memorial to the men of Rye Harbour who died when the Mary Stanford lifeboat sank in 1928. Services at Rye Harbour Church are usually on the 3rd Sunday of the month at 5pm for Evening … more
Rye Museum: East Street
Rye Museum has two sites in the town: Ypres Tower and East Street which is the main site for exhibits and public events such as talks and coffee mornings. It houses changing exhibitions concerning different aspects of Rye life. The … more
Accommodation
Humphries Cross Apartments
Housed in a historic building, the recently renovated Humphries Cross Apartments provides accommodation with a garden and free WiFi.
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
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
The Gallivant
The Gallivant Restaurant With Rooms is across the road from the dunes and the beautiful sandy beach beyond. Inspired by the coastal motels you might find in California. It is a a relaxing hideaway from the stresses and strains of … more