The Ypres Tower was built in the 13th century on the behest of Henry III to protect against the French, with whom England were then at war with. The tower, which is Grade I-listed, houses a museum.

Brian

May 10, 2016

The Ypres Tower is thought to have been built in the early 14th century as part of the town’s defences and is the second oldest building open to the public in Rye. (The oldest is St Mary’s church.)

From the balcony you can look over what was once one of the largest and most important harbours in the country. In the C16th it was England’s seventh busiest port; now there is farmland where once there was sea. There are good views from the balcony in all directions, and guides to tell you what you are seeing.

James Standing

May 28, 2018

The town is located on top of a rocky outcrop known as the Citadel. The stone tower is known as the Ypres Tower. It is thought to have been the town's only defensive structure in the 13th century until King Edward III have several grants for the building of town walls and two gates.

The defenses didn't stop the French, who raided the town several times in the 14th century. After that, the tower had a variety of other functions over the centuries including a court house, prison, soup kitchen for the poor, mortuary, fire engine House and a private residence. Since 1954, it has been home to the town's museum.

Meanwhile, a gun garden was created in the 16th century during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Elizabeth was at was with Spain and the Spanish Armada sailed up the English Channel ready to attack. Rye was an important invasion target so this platform was created for cannon. By 1649, there was no longer a threat of attacks so the Gun Garden became a bowling green open to residents.

Details

Informations

Elevation 10 m

March 30 – October 31: 10.30am – 5pm. November 1 – March 29: 10.30am – 3.30 pm

Adults: £4

Concessions: £3

Children under 16: Free but must be accompanied by an adult

Contacts

Gungarden, Rye TN31 7HE

ryemuseum.co.uk/ypres-tower/

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Location: Rye, Rother, East Sussex, South East England, England, United Kingdom

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