We arrived in the historic village of Rye late in the afternoon, just inland of the English Channel. As we wandered through narrow laneways and cobblestone streets, the feeling of being transported in time was very apparent. 

We headed straight for Mermaid Street to find the famous Mermaid Inn. As we walked up the cobblestone street we noticed that each home was unique and very old! Some had their year on the door - many were at least 500 years old. It was like walking into a medieval book or movie.

When we found the Mermaid Inn we recognised it instantly from photos we had seen. It was rebuilt in 1420, but the cellar dates back to 1156 - the original building, along with the town of Rye - was burnt to the ground by the French in the Hundred Year War.

The inn has had a colourful history, including being the base for a gang of violent smugglers in the 1730s and 40s who used its secret passageways and underground tunnels for their black market activity. It is also thought to be one of the most haunted hotels in the world, with many stories reported by guests over the years.

Rye is located where three rivers meet, and was originally a busy seaport, however shifting tides over the centuries have gradually moved it two miles inland. As its location is where the English Channel is at its narrowest, it was often a target for invaders from Europe, particularly France. Rye was actually ruled by France for more than two centuries before falling back under English rule in 1247. 

Even today, centuries later, the town still has a distinctly European feel. It is popular for holiday makers and tourists, and is thought by many to be one of the most picturesque villages in England's south-east. I definitely concur, and could easily stay here for a week!