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
Gun Gardens
The Gun Gardens are set in-front of the Ypres (Wipers) Tower and has a battery of cannons facing out to sea. The views over the river Rother and across to the sea and Romney Marsh are well worth a visit.
Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin
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
Accommodation
Humphries Cross Apartments
Housed in a historic building, the recently renovated Humphries Cross Apartments provides accommodation with a garden and free WiFi.
Willow Tree House
Willow Tree House is a six bedroomed house a stones throw from the centre of Rye. Set over three floors, this Grade 2 listed home sleeps 12 people. Four bedrooms are ensuite with two bedrooms on the top floor, the … more
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
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
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
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