Rye, East Sussex

The name of Rye is believed to come from the West Saxon ieg meaning island. Medieval maps show that Rye was originally located on a huge embayment of the English Channel called the Rye Camber, which provided a safe anchorage and harbour. Probably as early as Roman times, Rye was important as a place of shipment and storage of iron from the Wealden iron industry. Rye, as part of the Saxon Manor of Rameslie, was given to the Benedictine Abbey of Fécamp in Normandy by King Æthelred; it was to remain in Norman hands until 1247. The town of Rye is recorded in the 1086 Domesday Book as possessing 189 households, marking it as a significant settlement at the time. The cellars of the Mermaid Inn…

The town and its striking surroundings have frequently served as subject for painters, many of whose works are now on display in its art gallery. One of the earliest topographical panoramas, dating from the 17th century when the town was still an island port, is in the style of Hendrick Danckerts and on display in Rye Castle Museum. Later landscapists who recorded views of the town have included Thomas Girtin, William Daniell, and J. M. W. Turner. During the 20th century, the harbour and its marshy surroundings were a particular draw for such artists as Paul Nash, Eric Ravilious and John Piper. In addition, Edward Burra lived near Rye and frequently painted its marshy surroundings,…