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
Pett Level Beach
Pett Level beach is characterised by its pebble shoreline, which is typical of most beaches along the coast. One of the notable features of Pett Level is its exposure of prehistoric submerged forest remains during low tides. Ancient tree stumps … more
Winchelsea Beach
Winchelsea Beach is a pebble beach located between Camber and Pett Level. With views over Rye Bay, Dungeness can be clearly seen to the east and Fairlight cliffs to the west.
Accommodation
Humphries Cross Apartments
Housed in a historic building, the recently renovated Humphries Cross Apartments provides accommodation with a garden and free WiFi.
The Artist’s Cottage
The Artist’s Cottage is a beautiful Grade II listed building built in 1483. Located in the heart of Rye’s historic citadel area, this newly renovated cottage is ideally situated for exploring the town and accessing the surrounding coast and countryside. … more
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
Restaurants
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
Webbe’s at the Fish Café
Welcome to Webbe’s in Rye. A vibrant lively restaurant atmosphere with open plan kitchen area where you can view your meal in its creation, for serious diners and families alike. This upbeat eatery will meet your every need when you … more
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