Looking for a night on the town? Head to the cobbled streets of Rye. History-filled pubs are in plentiful supply, and many of them host regular live music from talented local musicians.
So if the thought of a frothy pint, a crackling fireside, and an evening watching some of the area’s top local artists sounds appealing, check out our following guide on where to enjoy the best live music in Rye
The Grapevine
Tucked away along a cobbled street, this intimate champagne and jazz bar is full of cosy nooks and funky decor. Find regular live music here every Friday to Sunday. While you kick back with an evening of chilled-out jazz, order a drink from the bar’s extensive menu of wines, premium fizz, and local craft beers.
Arrive on Thursdays for the weekly cocktail night. This popular event is hosted by Christopher Cogan – an expert mixologist with experience training staff at some of London’s top five-star hotel cocktail bars!
Ypres Castle Inn
Among Rye’s numerous centuries-old pubs, the weather-boarded Ypres Castle Inn is an undoubted gem. Known locally as “The Wipers,” the inn is nestled just below the ramparts of the Ypres Tower. Patrons have reportedly been coming here since 1640.
Live bands (often of a bluesy variety) perform every Sunday from 5-7pm. Ypres Castle Inn also features in the Good Beer Guide, so you can be sure of a decent pint! In the warmer months, the beer garden offers a tranquil spot to unwind with stunning views of the surrounding rooftops and marsh. Come winter, the recently refurbished interior retains a cosy atmosphere with its low ceilings, original timber beams, and crackling open fireplace.
The Globe Inn Marsh
Located on a winding lane on the outskirts of Rye, this cute clapperboard pub dates back to 1839. You’ll find live acoustic music here every Thursday, with performances from the best local talent. Inside, carefully curated decor reflects Rye’s maritime past and the rustic shepherd’s huts of Romney Marsh. Eyes are quickly drawn to the corrugated steel walls, milk-churn bins, and pendant lights made from lobster pots!
In addition to live music, this popular venue is a great spot to kick up your feet after a long coastal stroll. The locally sourced beers and unusual gins are real highlights. Plus, crackling log fires let you get toasty warm on chilly days.
The Ship Inn Rye
One of the oldest pubs in Rye, The Ship Inn dates all the way back to 1592. Originally built as a warehouse to store contraband seized from the town’s smugglers, this charming pub is one of the town’s top venues to catch regular music.
Tap your feet to the latest live performance while sipping award-winning wines from the pub’s own Hush Heath Winery. There’s also a great food menu full of local produce. Try freshly baked bread from artisan bakers and vegetables from one of Rye’s family-owned greengrocers. Travelling with your four-legged friend? Fido is free to join you for the paw-some music at this pet-friendly establishment.
Rye International Jazz and Blues Festival
A list of the top music venues in Rye wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the annual Rye International Jazz and Blues Festival. Held in the 900-year-old St Mary’s Church, this year’s festival will host a series of concerts in early May. Then in August, there’ll be live shows from two world-renowned artists.
On Saturday 24th August, the multi-award winning Beverley Knight will treat the crowds to a special up-close performance accompanied by her eight-piece band. Then on Monday 26th August, Ivor Novello Award-winning Richard Thompson (original member of folk-rock super-group, Fairport Convention) will perform an intimate headline solo concert to close the 2019 festival.
Tickets to the popular festival go fast. Book early to make sure you don’t miss out.
Accommodations Near Live Music in Rye
Along the cobbled streets of Rye, you’re never far from a charming pub and an evening of live music from a great local act. If you’re travelling to this part of the world, our charming cottages are just a 10-minute drive from the heart of Rye, so make sure you book your accommodation today.
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