Originally called the 'Baddings Tower', it was renamed the 'Ypres Tower' after John de Ypres, a 14th-century owner.
The tower survived the massive French raid of 1377 which destroyed much of the rest of Rye.
It functioned as the town gaol from the 16th century until 1891.
The interior walls contain graffiti carved by prisoners held within the tower over several centuries.
The building was never actually part of a larger castle complex, despite the name Rye Castle Museum.
During the 19th century, the building was used as the town's police station.
The tower's location on the cliff edge was strategically chosen to monitor the entrance to the Rother estuary.
The Ypres Tower is the oldest standing structure in Rye, constructed around 1249 to defend the town against French cross-channel raids. It served as a gaol for over 500 years and later functioned as a mortuary and a private residence. The building is part of the Rye Castle Museum and retains its original 14th-century footprint. Visitors can explore its medieval stone chambers, which house historical collections including needlework, pottery, and local maritime artifacts. The tower features a narrow, steep staircase leading to a battlements area with views of the River Rother and the Romney Marsh. It is one of the few remaining remnants of the town's original medieval fortifications. The interior layout remains largely unchanged from its historical military and penal configurations.
The battlements at the top of the tower providing a panoramic view of the town rooftops and the Romney Marsh.
The internal stone stairs are extremely steep, narrow, and uneven; wear sturdy, flat-soled footwear.
Visit the secondary site, the East Street Museum, to complete the collection experience as your ticket usually covers both.
If you suffer from claustrophobia or limited mobility, be aware that the upper levels are accessible only by original narrow staircases.
Avoid rushing through the tower; the history is concentrated in the small, multi-level cells, not in a large open hall.
Closed during the winter season; generally opens from late March through October.
Maintain quiet in the historic chambers; do not touch the artifacts or the medieval masonry.
