Cinque Ports Arms
High Street
This public house was built in the 18th century, probably on the foundations of an earlier building.
The Cinque Ports were a federation of south-eastern ports, the original five being Hastings, Romney, Hythe, Dover and Sandwich. They were later joined by the Antient Towns of Winchelsea and Rye and by several associate members.
In return for providing the Sovereign with ships and sailors the Cinque Ports were granted certain rights and privileges, which began in the Norman era and were consolidated in a Charter granted by Edward I in 1278. They included tax-raising and legislative powers, trade concessions and ceremonial rights.
Romney's significance as a port diminished after a great storm in 1287 diverted the River Rother to a new course at Rye. Afterwards the harbour began to silt up and the sea receded, despite all efforts to prevent it. Most of the other Cinque Ports suffered similar fates, and only Dover survives as a port.
Links
The Cinque Ports Arms
Cinque Ports Links
History of the River Rother
The Cinque Ports Arms
