THIS IS OUR STORY
750 YEARS IN 20 MINUTES
No trip to Rye feels quite complete without seeing the famous Rye Town Model.
Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026, this updated light and sound show brings the Story of Rye vividly to life.
Through projection, sound and special effects, it explores the people, events and forces that shaped the town over centuries — from French raids and great storms to smugglers, sailors and royal visits. It offers a lively introduction to a place whose past is far more dramatic than its idyllic appearance might suggest.
Rye may seem picture-perfect at first glance, but its history is one of hardship, resilience and change. The show gives that history shape and context, so the streets outside feel richer and more meaningful when you step back into them.
Today's Showtimes
| The Story Of Rye |
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| Closed Today |
Prices
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Adult £5
A discount is available for groups of 10 or more and for Rye residents.
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Child £3
5-16 (under 5s go free.)
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Family Ticket £14
Max 2 adults with up-to 4 children.
Your Visit
The Story of Rye is held in a dark environment and uses sensory effects including flashing lights, smells and loud noises. Those sensitive to such effects should not view the show and should ask our volunteers for more information. We ask you remain seated throughout the show. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on a short lead. The show contains historical murder and may not be suitable for younger guests without an adult. Filming and photography is not permitted during any shows. We suggest arriving 5 – 10 minutes before the scheduled performance. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult 18+.
Flex Ticket
Tickets valid for 14 says from day of purchase.
Languages & Accessibility
We offer 4 language versions of the Story of Rye. In addition to English subtitled with Chines, Japanese, Italian & Dutch.
An audio loop plays the current show. For more about our accessibility, click here.
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English
Audio: English Subtitles (with or without): English, Chinese, Italian, Dutch, Japanese
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Français
Audio: French Subtitles (with or without): English
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Deutsch
Audio: German Subtitles (with or without): English
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Español
Audio: Spanish Subtitles: English
History of the model
Work started on building the Town Model back in 1973 when Joy Harland and her husband Ted decided to embark on this real labour of love following a trip to Ghent where they saw a similar show and were inspired to create something amazing for their home town of Rye.
After three years and more of painstaking research and construction using a variety of materials, including recycled TV packaging, bottle brushes, cardboard and a lot of glue, their task was complete.
Finally, they revealed their master creation to the public exhibiting first in the old boy’s School in Mermaid Street and ultimately being taken on by Rye Town Council and given a permanent home in The Old Sail Loft at Strand Quay. The attention to detail and accuracy of this scale model of the town as it was in the mid 19th century is quite something to see – brought to life in the accompanying audiovisual show,
After nearly thirty years of operation, the Town Model and operation of the Heritage Centre were handed over to the Rye Heritage Centre Charity in 2020, happily continuing the tradition of introducing the history of this medieval town to visitors and residents alike.
The charity has also embarked on a multi year programme of renewal and regeneration of the Heritage displays and model shows. Projection mapping was added in 2024/2025 and new shows have been expanding the capabilities of what we can offer and teach.
Discover more...
Our first new show Rye’s Story: WWII follows the real life stories of the people of Rye during the second world war and with projection we can pinpoint the location of the bombs and damaged that be felled Rye.
For those who like a scare, we added the history of the witches and ghosts that have been told through the centuries in our haunted Rye After Dark shows.(not for the faint-hearted).
Moving forward, we wish to expand our programme of shows to encompass the national curriculum and other historical aspects of Rye. Your support by donation helps us run the centre alongside our army of volunteers.
