Medieval Conference boosts tourism

The theme this year was ‘Medieval Transport and Trade’.

The conference was organised by local historian and Rye councillor Jo Kirkham and the Rye Partnership and provided a welcome late season boost to tourism in the town.

Jo said: “It was the most successful event in the popular Conference Series yet, with over 100 delegates enjoying the diverse range of talks on offer.

The College once more provided a fine venue for such an event and two students - Nathan Knight and Lewis Bayley - were wonderful guides and a credit to the college.

“The excellent speakers included Alex Langlands of ‘Tales of a Green Valley.’ ‘Victorian Farm’ and ‘Victoria Christmas ‘ TV fame.

“His latest series ‘Edwardian Farm’ is to be shown on BBC 2 on November 10.

“The event was good for Rye as 54% of delegates booked accommodation with

local providers; 39% of the delegates were day visitors to the town and 7% of the delegates comprised local people.

“Of those who booked stays with local accommodation providers, 90% stayed at least two nights and 62% of the Conference delegates indicated that they would be visiting at least one other attraction during their time in the town including Rye Castle Museum and the Heritage Centre.

“Delegates came from all over the British Isles, and one came from Canada specially for the event.

“There has been excellent feedback with all delegates rating the conference as informative and enjoyable and indicating that they are looking forward to the next event in two years time.”