4Rye, East Sussex

A medieval gem perched on a hill, Rye feels like a living museum. Cobbled streets such as Mermaid Street, lined with crooked timber-framed houses, have barely changed in centuries. Once a bustling port town, Rye now offers boutique shops, art galleries, and atmospheric inns. The town’s church, St. Mary’s, provides panoramic views over the rooftops to the surrounding marshes. Despite its cinematic beauty, Rye often goes under the radar compared to seaside hotspots like Brighton, making it perfect for those seeking charm without the crowds.