Not to be confused with Rye Park in Peckham, this neighbourhood sits within Hoddesdon in Hertfordshire. This area has elements of industrial space that include a power station, sewage works and several distribution centres. The neighbourhood also boasts a variety of green and blue spaces along the Lea Valley, namely the Rye Meads Nature Reserve for anytime you might want to get back in touch with the earth. Not only that, there are also residential spots within the neighbourhood that are mostly made up of cozy semi-detached houses.

Much of the history of the neighbourhood is centred around the now crumbled Rye House, which was the manor of the area. The house got its name from the Rye House plot in 1683. This was an assassination attempt on the head of King Charles II that was planned in the manor. In the 19th century, the house became a workhouse for poor employees around the area. Unfortunately, by the early 20th century, the house was demolished since its attractiveness had declined. However – you can still find its antique bed at the Victoria and Albert Museum in West London.

The moat that was built around the now demolished Rye House was once used to grow watercress. The owners probably enjoyed egg sandwiches with their afternoon tea.

Whilst Rye House train station means that you can get into Liverpool street station in Central London in upwards of 45 minutes, the commute isn’t always reliable. Additionally, the variety of industrial plants in the area does give off a less homely feeling, concerning ecologically minded residents.

In general, the Rye House area does not have any large plans for development. However, there were worries over the potential creation of a £1 billion incinerator that was planned to be built in Hoddesdon. Luckily after passionate protests by local residents who were concerned about the placement and scale of the project, the government intervened to overrule the council’s previous decision to accept the proposal.