Rye Castle (The Ypres Tower)

About

The Ypres Tower was built in 1249 to defend Rye against attacks from across the channel. It has served as a fort, private dwelling, prison, court hall and now finally as a museum.

You can see where murderer John Breads was held prisoner, where prisoners where chained and the cells in which they were incarcerated. You can see a smugglers lantern, and a model that shows the changes to the Romney Marsh coastline and the defences against Napoleon.

From the balcony you can look out across the Marsh and view of what was once one of the most important harbours in the country.

Make sure you visit the East Street Museum too (open April to October, free entry).