Rye Arts Festival 2025

• What’s happening? Rye’s 54th annual Arts Festival takes over the town in mid‑September 2025 with more than 70 concerts, exhibitions and family events. Think classical recitals, African kora music, local art exhibitions, literary talks and a high‑energy drumming procession.

• When & where? Events run across Rye from 6–18 September (and beyond) at venues such as Rye Community Centre, The Buttermarket and Rye Art Gallery. Many events are free, so you can dip in and out.

• Why stay with us? Our Camber beach cottages put you within easy reach of Rye yet give you the space to unwind by the sea. After a day of art and culture, come home to a cosy living room, watch the sunset and swap stories of the day.

• What’s unique? This isn’t just any arts festival – it’s steeped in the history and tales of Romney Marsh. Expect Ryebellion drummers, a Town Crier proclamation and exhibitions in a former school gym.

• Call to action: Ready for culture on your doorstep? Book your stay with us and explore the festival from the comfort of our cottages.

When you stay in our Camber cottages you’re perfectly placed to step into Rye’s artistic side. Beyond the dunes and sunsets lies the Rye Arts Festival, a celebration of music, literature, film, drama and visual art that has been running for over half a century. Instead of strolling aimlessly, you’ll be following the beat of drums, the flash of paintbrushes and the soft hum of violins.

What is Rye Arts Festival?

Rye’s annual arts festival is one of Sussex’s most eclectic cultural events. Now in its 54th year, the festival spans books and talks, classical music, contemporary music, drama, walks & tours, film, fringe and workshops. Over two weeks in September the cobbled streets and historic halls of Rye become stages and galleries.

Event categories

• Books & Talks: From literary giants to local writers, expect author Q&As, poetry readings and storytelling.

• Classical music: Intimate chamber recitals and choral concerts in centuries‑old churches.

• Traditional & contemporary music: Folk, jazz, world and rock concerts, including African kora performances.

• Drama & film: Stage productions, cinema screenings and fringe theatre.

• Walks & tours: Guided walks unveil Rye’s smugglers’ past and hidden alleyways.

• Workshops & art: Exhibitions and hands‑on classes in painting, photography and crafts.

Highlights of the 2025 programme

🎨 New Road Artists Annual Exhibition (6–18 Sept)

Held in the Old Gym at Rye Creative Centre, this free exhibition showcases work by more than twenty resident artists. The show’s 2025 theme “Register” nods to the building’s former life as a school. Expect a mix of painting, sculpture and multimedia art, and take advantage of the 10‑minute walk from the town centre and free parking on site.

🥁 Ryebellion & Town Crier (13 Sept, 10:30am)

The festival formally opens with the Town Crier’s proclamation at The Buttermarket outside Rye Town Hall. The Ryebellion drummers then fill the citadel with an exuberant rhythm, opera singer Anne Rebecca Højlund performs from The George Hotel balcony and children can join a free Pugwash Animation workshop. It’s a family‑friendly, free event that captures the festival’s spirit of community.

🎵 Jali Bakary Konteh & Minyanta: African Music at its Best (12 Sept, 8pm)

Gambian kora virtuoso Jali Bakary Konteh, grandson of renowned griot players Alhaji Bai Konte and Dembo Konte, brings his 5‑piece band Minyanta to Rye Community Centre. Doors open at 7:30 pm and the concert starts at 8 pm. Expect intricate string patterns, hypnotic rhythms and a sound that bridges West Africa and Europe. Facilities include wheelchair access, a hearing loop and a bar.

Other events to look out for

• Wildlife photography talk: Award‑winning photographer Rachel Bigsby shares her secrets at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve (12 Sept, 11am).

• Wine & food fair: The Rye Harvest brings together local vineyards, brewers and producers for tastings and live music.

• Guided history tours: Join the Town Crier for a walk through Rye’s smugglers’ lanes and medieval inns.

(Check the festival programme for the full line‑up and ticket details.)

Why stay in our Camber beach cottages?

While Rye bursts with art and music, Camber Sands offers a tranquil retreat. Here’s why our cottages make the perfect base:

• Proximity with peace: We’re just a short drive or bus ride from Rye, so you can enjoy the festival and return to the calm of the coast.

• Space for the crew: Our holiday homes sleep couples, families or groups and include fully equipped kitchens, cosy lounges and private gardens. After a day of concerts and exhibitions, relax with a glass of wine and watch the sunset over the dunes.

• Local stories on your doorstep: Staying with us immerses you in the landscapes that inspired the festival. Walk across the Romney Marsh, explore smugglers’ footpaths and read the same tales that echo through the festival’s talks and performances.

• Wild tales included: As always, our brand promise is that you’ll find more than just beach views. With the festival around the corner, your holiday becomes a tapestry of art, history and coastal adventure.

Book now and immerse yourself in culture

The Rye Arts Festival offers a dazzling mix of performances and events. Pair it with a stay in our beach cottages and you’ve got a holiday that blends seaside serenity with cultural discovery. Ready to dive in? Check our availability and let the adventures begin!