Incredibly charming seaside town just an hour from London makes a perfect winter getaway

The clocks have turned back, and the days feel shorter than ever.

For many city dwellers, this time of year brings dreams of a peaceful winter escape, somewhere quiet where you can breathe fresh air and even see the stars again.

Luckily, you don’t need to travel far to find it, as one Sussex town might be exactly what you’re looking for.

This historic seaside town has been named one of Britain’s best spots for a winter break, earning glowing praise for being “ridiculously charming”.

Photo © Marathon (cc-by-sa/2.0)

It’s less than 90 minutes from London by train and feels like stepping into another era. With its cobbled streets, timber-framed houses and centuries-old pubs complete with crackling fires, Rye is full of character and charm.

It’s easy to understand why visitors fall in love with the town’s timeless beauty, especially in the quieter winter months once the summer crowds have disappeared.

A wander through Rye’s narrow lanes feels like travelling back in time. Mermaid Street, one of the most photographed streets in England, is lined with crooked medieval buildings and home to The Mermaid Inn, which dates back to the 12th century and has welcomed everyone from smugglers to famous faces.

Rye’s fascinating past is tied to its days as a pirate port during the 13th century, when the town built a name for itself as a centre for smuggling.

Photo © Alan Simkins (cc-by-sa/2.0)

By the 18th century, Rye had become known as the smuggling capital of England. Locals were said to have been told to close their eyes, ears and doors while pistols fired in the streets as contraband goods were moved through the town.

Winter transforms Rye into a calm and cosy retreat. With no crowds to battle through, visitors can enjoy its charm at a slower pace, taking in the beauty of the old buildings and peaceful streets.

There’s no rush to squeeze through shops or crowded alleys; instead, you can wander at leisure, stop for tea, or settle beside a fire in one of its welcoming pubs.

The town’s charm has caught the attention of travellers far and wide. International magazine Condé Nast Traveller has even listed Rye as one of the best day trips from London, proving that this little Sussex gem is perfect for a winter getaway.

Remember - LeaveNoTrace!

As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!

Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.

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