Wish Ward Cottage is a beautifully refurbished 19th-century cottage in the heart of Rye, just off Mermaid Street. Perfect for families, couples or small groups, it blends historic charm with modern comfort.
The kitchen / dining area open through French doors onto a private sunny courtyard, ideal for relaxed breakfasts or evening drinks. A cosy lounge offers space to unwind, with Sonos, Smart TV, Netflix and iPlayer throughout your stay. Just minutes from Rye’s shops, restaurants and Camber Sands
The space
Perfect for families, couples or small groups exploring Rye and Camber Sands.
• Sleeps up to 6 guests (4 comfortably, plus sofa bed)
• Two spacious double bedrooms (one with ensuite)
• Sunny private courtyard with outdoor seating
• Fully equipped kitchen with dining space
• Smart TV, Netflix, iPlayer and Sonos throughout the Kitchen and lounge
• Located in the centre of Rye, just moments from shops and restaurants
• Camber Sands beach just a short drive away
Ideal for weekend breaks, family stays or longer coastal escapes.
Enjoy streaming your favourite music throughout this charming 19th-century cottage with a fully integrated Sonos system. Relax with Smart TV, Netflix and iPlayer, and take in spectacular sunset views from the top-floor bedroom. The second bedroom features an ensuite bathroom, and the double sofa bed provides flexible space for families. The Cottage is loved by our family and friends and has been let a holiday home since 2017. For a fuller sense of the Cottage, that really showcases the space, layout, and setting, please look us up on Insta and please give us a follow.
For your convenience, the cottage is equipped with a Bosch Tassimo coffee machine. We normally have a small selection of pods but if you wish bring your preferred Tassimo pods to enjoy fresh coffee during your stay.
About the area -
Rye is one of East Sussex’s most enchanting and romantic towns, known for its cobbled streets, medieval buildings and timeless atmosphere. Steeped in history yet quietly sophisticated, it offers the perfect setting for a refined countryside escape. Wander through charming lanes lined with independent boutiques, art galleries and antique shops before settling into one of Rye’s acclaimed restaurants or cosy wine bars.
The town has built a reputation as a destination for food lovers, with excellent seasonal dining, locally sourced seafood and nearby vineyards producing award-winning English wines. Long, relaxed lunches and candlelit dinners are part of the rhythm of life here.
Just beyond the town, the landscape opens into peaceful countryside and wide coastal views. Camber Sands, only a short drive away, offers miles of unspoilt sandy beach - ideal for morning walks or sunset strolls. The surrounding marshland, nature reserves and rolling farmland create a sense of space and calm, perfect for slowing down and reconnecting.
Guest experience -
We’ve compiled a digital guidebook of recommendations to help you make the most of your stay, which we’ll send you after booking.
Parking -
The space to the left of the cottage is privately owned and not available. There are 4 public bays outside (pay-and-display). Alternatively, Rope Walk car park (5 minutes’ walk, 24 hours) is the most reliable option. Please note Thursday market restrictions.
Guest access
Guests have full and private access to the entire cottage, including the courtyard.
The property is arranged over multiple floors, with the main living areas and kitchen on the ground floor. The family bathroom and one double bedroom with ensuite are located on the first floor, with a second double bedroom on the top floor. Please note there are stairs within the property.
The sofa bed is located on the ground floor and provides additional sleeping space, suitable for children or teenagers.
Other things to note
Up to 4 guests are included. The sofa bed can accommodate 1–2 additional guests and really for small people!
The property is arranged over multiple floors with stairs, which may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility or very young children.
The cottage is located in the centre of Rye, so some occasional street noise and activity should be expected, particularly during weekends and peak season.
Parking is limited in the immediate area. There are 4 public bays outside (pay-and-display), and Rope Walk car park (5 minutes’ walk) is the most reliable option. Please note Thursday market restrictions.
Heating is controlled via a Hive thermostat located in the kitchen, with simple instructions provided.
As this is a character property, some features reflect the age and charm of a 19th-century cottage.
No parties, events or unregistered guests are permitted.
We kindly ask guests to respect the property and neighbours, particularly regarding noise in the evenings.