Rye Arts Festival 2026
Eighteen days of classical music, author talks, drama and film across Rye's churches, theatres and historic venues each September.
- When
- Where
Venues across Rye including St Mary's Parish Church, Rye Theatre, Rye Community Centre, Rye Town Hall and the Mermaid Inn
- Info
Visit the official website or follow on Facebook for more details
The Rye Arts Festival has run since 1971 and now spans more than two weeks each September. The 2026 edition is its 55th. Expect classical concerts at St Mary's Parish Church, author talks at the Mermaid Inn and the Community Centre, drama at Rye Theatre, guided walks unveiling Rye's smugglers' past, and a curated film programme. Many events sell out fast when tickets release.
Most evening venues are within ten minutes' walk of The River Haven. Book a few nights, dip in and out of the programme, and walk home through the cobbled lanes — no driving home in the dark.
Stay at The River Haven
The festival is on The River Haven's doorstep — most evening concerts are a ten-minute walk away. Book a few nights and dip in and out without driving home in the dark.
