Smugglers Attic
Discover the thrilling world of Rye’s smugglers with our interactive adventure — perfect for families ready to uncover hidden tales of mischief by the sea!
Ahoy, Young Adventurers!
Step into our captivating multimedia walk-through and join the cheeky “Owlers” — daring gangs of men, women, and even sneaky children who smuggled treasures along Rye’s misty shores, dodging the revenue men’s watchful eyes. Hear the crash of waves, the creak of smuggling boats, and whispers of secret cargoes, just like stepping back 200 years to a time of salty sea air and seaside excitement!
Dive into the Secrets
This free family attraction invites you to explore the shadowy attic, spot hidden clues, and laugh along with the smugglers’ escapades — all in a fun 4-5 minute show packed with surprises. A voluntary donation helps keep the adventure alive for more explorers like you!
Plan Your Quest
Located on the first floor (stairs only, sorry no lift), it’s best for brave souls aged 5+ who enjoy dim lights, fun smells like sea spray, flickering lanterns, lively sounds of gulls and waves, and a touch of pretend peril. Groups of up to 4 at a time.
What be your goods?
From April 2024 -the opening.
Did you know?
Sneaky Start in 1300: King Edward I slapped taxes on wool and silver — so Rye locals became “Owlers,” smuggling goodies by night to skip the fees (and dodge scary punishments!).
Whole Families Joined In: By the 1700s, tough times meant kids, mums, and dads hid tea, brandy, and lace in walls or church pews, wearing funny bee-skep masks to trick the law.
Hawkhurst Gang’s Tunnels: In the 1740s, this wild crew ran wild from the Mermaid Inn, with secret passages under Rye for fast escapes — until brave locals shut them down!
Boat Tricks & Marsh Hides: Rye builders hid cargo in ship floors; foggy marshes and twisty streets made it the ultimate smuggler’s playground by the sea.
