I would like to introduce you to one of Rye’s little-known attractions: The Museum of Outdated Plumbing, or MOP as it should be affectionately known, even if it isn’t. I certainly don’t need to remark on the irony of this acronym to anyone who has visited. I have also heard it referred to as a public convenience, but I hesitate to use this phrase myself, as only one of the words applies.
The museum is situated just a few steps from Rye station, so I suppose it could be said to be convenient in that sense. Visitors who have made the often wise decision to avoid the on-train toilets, can hurry across the road to use the museum facilities and very relieved they must be to see them.
On entry, the discerning visitor will waste no time identifying the first exhibit: a large puddle just inside the door is a good example of an unfixed leak. Then they can join their ashen-faced and wrinkled-nosed fellow users as they process around the central wash-basins, gingerly pushing on the doors with two fingers and peeking inside before, in many cases, recoiling in horror.
The exhibition is cleverly interactive at this point. Visitors have to identify a cubicle that has a locking mechanism on the door, a functioning flush, an unblocked bowl with a seat as well as toilet paper in its dispenser rather than on the floor. Having failed in that respect on my last visit, I think the curators might have gone a little too far.
Adding to the general atmosphere, you will also find an overflowing bin and non-functioning taps but I was disappointed by the relative lack of graffiti, which appeared to have been painted over quite recently.
I hope visitors to Rye are aware of the historical value of this exhibit and do not mistake it for a normal public toilet. That would provide a terrible impression of our town and how we care for it.
Image Credits: James Stewart , Julie McLaren .