The church's Quarter Boys, two wooden figures that strike the bells every 15 minutes, have been in place since the 16th century.
The original church structure suffered significant damage during French raids on Rye in 1377.
The pendulum of the 1561 clock is approximately 18 feet long and swings within the church's central space.
The tower offers panoramic views of the Romney Marsh and the English Channel.
During the 18th century, the church was a focal point for the Hawkhurst Gang of smugglers who operated in the region.
St. Mary's Church in Rye is a Norman structure dating back to the 12th century, prominently situated at the highest point of the town. The church is famous for housing one of the oldest working church turret clocks in the United Kingdom, installed in 1561. Its architecture features a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles following extensive enlargements in the 13th and 15th centuries. The interior contains rare 18th-century mahogany communion rails and significant stained glass windows, including works by Sir Edward Burne-Jones. Visitors can access the bell tower to observe the clock mechanism and view the surrounding coastal landscape. The churchyard contains historical gravestones reflecting the town's maritime and smuggling past.
The view from the top of the bell tower overlooking the red-tiled roofs of Rye towards the harbour.
Climb the narrow stone staircase to the bell tower for the best perspective of the town's medieval layout.
Check the internal noticeboard for occasional musical recitals or local history talks.
Visit the churchyard to find graves of notable local figures from Rye's history.
Do not attempt the tower climb if you have limited mobility or claustrophobia, as the staircase is steep and narrow.
Maintain a quiet tone as it remains an active place of worship; remove hats upon entry.
