The Cinque Port town of Rye used to be on the sea, but now it’s two miles inland. That doesn’t stop it being a charming spot to spend a day out of London. It’s about an hour by train from St Pancras and there are regular buses from Rye to the gloriously wide beach at Camber Sands which should take around 20 minutes if the roads aren’t jammed with visitors.
The Gallivant
Where: New Lydd Rd, Camber, Rye TN31 7RB
A regular inclusion on Best UK Hotels lists, this seaside hotel is just across the road from Camber Sands. To enable social distancing, the dining room’s only open for overnight guests and members. Jay Rayner gave it the food here a great review just before the first lockdown.
Follow them on Instagram: @thegallivant
Globe Inn Marsh Rye
Where: 10 Military Rd, Rye TN31 7NX
The kind of country inn that’s catnip for Instagrammers, this pub serves up a great selection of small and larger plates - think fish platters and steaks using local Sussex beef. They pride themselves on their local connections and suppliers - "for every £1 you spend with us about 60 pence returns back into the local community".
Follow them on Instagram: @globeinnrye
The Landgate
Where: 5-6 Landgate, Rye, East Sussex TN31 7LH
You’ll definitely need to book ahead to secure a table at this popular restaurant. Expect to find plenty of local produce on the menu, from salt marsh lamb to foraged alexanders in the cod fritters.
Follow them on Instagram: @landgatebistro
Marino’s Fish Bar
Where: 37 The Mint, Rye TN31 7EN
There’s something about a seaside fish and chips that’s just light years better than anything you’ll find in London, and this Rye chippy gets the thumbs up from its legions of fans.
Ypres Castle Inn
Where: Gungarden, Rye TN31 7HH
While social distancing rules remain in place, this pub - better known as The Wipers - is now a beer garden only, but what a lovely beer garden it is. Enjoy local wines, beers and ciders - the food is supplemental, more a case of quality snacks then anything else.
Follow them on Instagram: @yprescastleinn
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