EXPLORE
Away from the inn, there’s plenty to see and do in this unique part of the country, from historic sites and natural wonders to culture and retail therapy. Please see some suggestions below or visit www.1066country.com to plan your trip.
GARDENS OF KENT & SUSSEX
The area is famed for its unique gardens, which draw visitors from all over the world. Horticultural highlights include:
Also the miraculous desert garden at the late film-maker Derek Jarman’s black and yellow timbered Prospect Cottage, on the beach at Dungeness.
FAMILY FUN
There is plenty of traditional holiday fun to be had for the whole family, including:
The outstanding animal conservation reserve Port Lympne
The retro theme park Dreamland has made a comeback, also now a noted music and events venue too.
Traditional seaside fun, aquarium and amusements at Hastings and don’t forget to check out its award-winning pier with a modern twist!
BACK TO NATURE
There are numerous beautiful places nearby to escape from it all and get back to nature.
Rye Harbour is great for a circular walk with distances to suit all including a walk on the beach - you don’t need to be a twitcher to enjoy the landscapes, huge skies or sit quietly in contemplation in one of the many bird hides overlooking the salt lakes and Camber Castle. Or venture across to the unique RSPB Reserve at Dungeness with its gravel lakes, wildflower meadows and austere beauty
OUTWARD BOUND
You can walk to Rye from Hastings along the sea-shore but you must, must go when the tide is heading out and allow yourself enough time to get to Pett Level before the tide turns, but it’s well worth the planning. Just a note of warning - if you are a little shy or are taking children, there are naked people on a naturist beach at Pett! The Pilgrim’s Way with walks across the downs to Canterbury lies on our doorstep.
Alternatively explore walks and routes at
www.ramblers.org.uk. There are any number of walks, long and short and in between, from all our inns. Please ask us for details and a map! We can organise a delicious picnic too on request.
ART & CULTURE
The area is rich in art and culture with a number of must-visit destinations including the iconic Modernist De La Warr Pavillion and arts centre , The Jerwood Gallery in Hastings and Margate’s magnificent Turner Contemporary, right on the beach.
Check websites for details of current exhibitions, cultural events and opening times.
RETAIL THERAPY
Shopaholics are well served, with a wealth of unusual and one-offs to select from. Rye is well known for its quirky independents – snap up local arts and craft at Ethel Loves Me and Rye Pottery.
Hastings Old Town has an array of one off boutiques, and a great place to wander Don’t miss quirky delights including AGHendy and Made in Hastings.
Label-lovers can snap up designer discounts 24/7 at Ashford’s Designer Outlet.
STEP BACK IN TIME
Sussex and Kent are simply steeped in history. With its moat, turrets and drawbridge, the amazing Medieval castle at Bodiam brings legend to life.
This is 1066 Country after all, so check out the battlefield of the Battle of Hastings and historic Battle Abbey .
Lovers of castles can find many more to explore from the fairytale Scotney Castle, the romantic ruins of Camber Castle though to Ypres Tower in Rye and the Rye Castle Museum and not forgetting the “Key to England” and its largest castle, Dover Castle.
GREAT DAYS OUT
Go behind the scenes with our friends at Chapel Down and enjoy a tour of the vineyard and winery followed by a tutored tasting of their award-winning wines.
Journey over to Dover area and take in the historic White Cliffs Experience before checking out the up and coming creative quarter in Folkestone.
Take a trip back in time on the wonderful Romney Hythe and Dymchurch steam railway or enjoy a day in the historic city of Canterbury, not forgetting of course its splendid cathedral.
HISTORIC HOUSES
There are many fascinating historic houses in the vicinity, from Lamb House in Rye, once home to writer Henry James, to Rudyard Kipling’s Jacobean house Bateman’s in Burwash and actress Ellen Terry’s gem of a home at Smallhythe Place.
Check National Trust and English Heritage websites for further details and inspiration.
BEACH LIFE
The area is famed for it's beautiful beaches. Whilst Camber Sands is famous for its miles of dunes, not so many are familiar with its quieter neighbouring sisters, Winchelsea Beach or Jury’s Gap where you can swim without the crowds.
The cove at Pett Level is a Blyton-esque delight of cliffs and rockpools.
ON THE GO
Active types can find plenty to keep them busy!
Camber Sands has the best wind stats and the closest kitesurfing to London with expert 1 to 1 tuition for beginners at The Kitesurf Centre.
Golfers – there are a wealth of great courses in the area including Etchinghill Golf Course. Please ask us for further details.
For horse-riding, check out the Grove Farm Riding School in Iden.