The Olde Bell (Rye)
The Olde Bell inn, also known as Ye Olde Bell, is a Grade II listed historical inn in Rye, East Sussex. It was built in 1390. It has a turbulent history and was once used for smuggling, connected by a secret tunnel with the nearby Mermaid Inn to the south. It was used by the infamous Hawkhurst Gang in the 1730s and 1740s who moved goods along the tunnel from the Mermaid to a revolving cupboard in the Old Bell for a quick getaway. The inn has two separate bar areas with original oak beams and a terrace with an 80-year-old Wysteria tree.
References
- ^ Historic England. "The Mint, Ye Olde Bell Inn (1251623)". National Heritage List for England. Retrieved 6 June 2020.
- ^ Chantler, Bob (2010). Rother Country: a Short History and Guide to the River Rother in East Sussex, and the Towns and Villages near to the River. Bob Chantler. p. 23. GGKEY:RD76BJL3758. Retrieved 21 July 2011.
- ^ "Ye Old Bell". Sussex Good Pub Guide. Archived from the original on 28 March 2012.