Sweets in Rye: Mermaid Street's Cobbles, Smugglers' Inn

Rye has been a working port and, at times, a smugglers' haunt long before it became one of the prettiest towns in Sussex — and its cobbled streets still show it.

A street built for carts, now built for cameras

Mermaid Street's steep, cobbled hill is lined with well-preserved medieval and Tudor-style buildings, and it's regularly cited as one of the most photographed streets in the whole of Britain.

The inn the smugglers drank in

Halfway up the hill stands the Mermaid Inn, with a license history dating back to 1156. In the 18th century it was a known stronghold of the Hawkhurst Gang of smugglers, who are said to have used secret passages within the building.

Sweets still arrive the same way as everywhere else

Rye's history is built on smuggling and the sea trade, not confectionery — so pick 'n' mix, bulk bags and trade cases for the town come by delivery, the same as the rest of East Sussex and the UK.

25,000+ customers, and counting

We've served over 25,000 customers UK-wide, Rye and the rest of East Sussex included, with most orders dispatched within 1-2 business days. The range covers pick 'n' mix by the bag and tub, bulk bags from 1kg to 3kg, trade cases for events and businesses, vegan and halal-friendly sweets, retro favourites, and full chocolate ranges from the major brands.

Frequently asked questions

Do you deliver sweets to Rye?

Yes — the same as the rest of the UK, with most orders dispatched in 1-2 business days.

What makes Rye's Mermaid Street notable?

It's a steep, cobbled medieval street of Tudor and medieval buildings, home to the Mermaid Inn, licensed since 1156.

Can I buy bulk or wholesale sweets in Rye?

Yes — we deliver bulk bags, multipacks and trade cases direct to Rye addresses.

Browse Pick 'n' Mix and Bulk Bags.

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