A Vacation Insiders Guide
Camber Sands & Rye
Hello, and welcome to Camber Sands!
Hello! We’re Richard and Sophie, your friendly hosts and owners of Beside the Sea Holidays. Whether you’re celebrating an occasion or simply here to unwind, we hope you’ll visit us to enjoy a well-deserved break.
We're here whenever need you us! Phone: +44 1797 227308 Web | Facebook|Instagram| Twitter
OUR STORY Beside The Sea Holidays is a family business: man, woman, boy, and dog. Together, we have owned and operated Beside The Sea Holidays since 2008 - remotely at first from Essex, and now locally along the shores of beautiful Camber Sands. The decision to relocate to Camber in 2014 not only afforded us the privilege to call this seaside town home, it gave us the opportunity to share beautiful coastline and countryside with our guests in a more personal and hands-on manner. As the only letting agents in Camber who live locally, we feel uniquely positioned to offer the best possible guest experience. Rest assured knowing we’re here whenever you need us!
We’re delighted to share a comprehensive guide to our favorite places to eat and explore in and around Camber. Looking for specific recommendations? Just ask us! We love helping our guests plan an escape that’s perfectly tailored to their group.
OUR HOMES Located on the charming development of Whitesand in one of the most beautiful corners of Britain, our hand-picked cottages are a stone’s throw from the shoreline. Exquisitely maintained and exclusive to Beside The Sea, your home away from home promises a holiday to remember. We know each cottage inside and out, having personally selected every home in our portfolio to meet our own high standards. We’re proud to say that if we put our name on a property, you’ll love staying there! Whether you’re on holiday with a special loved one or traveling with the whole family, we'll help you find the perfect Camber Sands accommodation to suit your needs. All you have to do is arrive ready to relax.
THE REAL CAMBER SANDS & RYE... Camber Sands has all the makings of a seaside paradise, from its fine golden sands and gently rolling dunes, to its sparkling blue waters and breezy salt air. And it’s all just steps from your cottage in the postcard-perfect village of Camber. Adored by foodies, history buffs, and beachgoers alike, Camber’s dramatic coastline and breathtaking countryside are waiting to be explored. Grab your beach gear to settle in for a day of surf and sun, and stroll leisurely along the shoreline to watch fishing boats cruise into the harbour. Build a sandcastle to withstand the changing tides, or cool off with a swim in the refreshing blue waters. The holiday cottages in our hand-picked collection offer comfortable accommodations to suit all tastes, from coastal chic and contemporary, to warm and cosy. Some are bursting with old world charm, while others are modern and airy. But they all share one thing in common: they’re ideally located just a stone’s throw from the beach, yet close to the historic cinque port of Rye. There's so much waiting to be discovered here. This guide highlights some of our favourites, But we're always accessible for questions throughout your stay.
“Adored by foodies, history buffs, and beachgoers alike, Camber’s dramatic coastline and breathtaking countryside are waiting to be explored.” Delve into England’s medieval past with a visit to the very sites where historic battles were fought. Explore moated fortresses with soaring towers, wander castle grounds to marvel at ancient ruins, and bring history to life with interactive events and activities. With a rich agricultural and fishing history, Rye is also a food lover’s destination. Step inside an enchanting tearoom serving afternoon tea and cake. Taste fresh seafood sourced directly from harbour fishermen. Treat yourself to fine British cuisine highlighting quality ingredients from the local farmers, butchers, and grocers. And sip award-winning wine at nearby vineyards, including the acclaimed Chapel Down and Gusbourne. Plus, English pub culture is an experience all of its own. More than just a place to grab a pint, these storied watering holes are informal gathering spaces for the community to come together. Stop by one of Rye’s modern pubs - like The Globe Inn Marsh - to experience a fresh take on an age-old British tradition. We're committed to making your holiday everything you dreamed it would be, and we hope you will create lasting memories here during your visit to Camber Sands. From our family to yours, enjoy your seaside escape!
5 EXPERIENCES YOU CANNOT MISS... 1
Hit the Beach...
2
Discover Rye...
3 4 5
With the UK’s finest beach at your doorstep, there’s no better place than Camber Sands to enjoy surf and sun. Build castles on an endless stretch of golden sand, and find quiet among the rolling green dunes. Experience the dramatic change in high and low tides, and stroll along the shoreline to watch fishing boats come and go. Be sure to keep an eye out for harbour seals - you may even spot one sunning itself on a sandbank!
Visit the Rye Heritage Centre, where a Sound & Light Show brings 700 years of history to life. With a dramatic past marked by battle and invasion, Rye has earned its reputation as a haunted town. Join a walking tour or guided ghost walk to reveal an alternative perspective on Rye’s colourful history. Meander the cobbled streets and antique shops, or climb St. Mary’s tower for a commanding view of the countryside.
Journey to Dungeness... Board the miniature steam railway and enjoy a scenic ride to Dungeness, a national nature reserve and one of the largest shingle landscapes in the world. Search for scallop shells along the vast pebbled beach, and skip stones in the gently tumbling surf. Climb the Dungeness Lighthouse for panoramic views of the English Channel, and indulge in the freshest fish finger rolls from the understated Fish Shack.
Uncover Medieval History... Explore medieval ruins at Battle Abbey and stand on the very site of the Battle of Hastings, regarded as the most historically significant battle fought on English soil. Spend an afternoon meandering the quaint town of Battle, and stop in for afternoon tea and cake at a vintage tearoom. Peruse the antique shops and art galleries along charming High Street, and refuel in one of its many cafés and gastropubs.
Visit Old Town Hastings... Once an old fishing village, Hastings is dotted with fishermen's net shops that are reminiscent of its maritime past. Admire British art at the Jerwood Gallery, bring the little ones to the aquarium, or face off together in a game of crazy golf on one of the UK's best adventure golf complexes. Climb aboard the East Cliff Railway and ride to the top of the East Hill overlooking Old Town and the English Channel.
RICHARD'S CULTURAL MUST SEE'S...
Rye...
Battle Abbey...
Bodiam Castle...
Perched above Rye Bay and River Rother, this charming coastal town has been dubbed the prettiest in England. Whether you’re a foodie in search of the day’s fresh catch or a history buff looking to delve into the town’s medieval past, this seaside community offers something for every traveller. Stroll its cobbled lanes to peruse shops, restaurants, and tea rooms.
History unfolds at Battle Abbey, the site of the Battle of Hastings in the year 1066. Walk the wellkept grounds and marvel at medieval ruins, or climb to the rooftop for beautiful battlefield views. An engaging film and interactive exhibition reveal the abbey's storied past, while a themed play area and children’s activities make for a fun family outing.
Celebrate history at Bodiam Castle, a 14th century moated fortress with soaring towers and dramatic scenery. Join a free guided walk from the castle courtyard to uncover secrets of the surrounding grounds, and bring the little ones to enjoy family-friendly events and activities that demonstrate what life was like in the castle during the Hundred Years' War.
Dover Castle...
Canterbury...
Hastings Old Town...
One of the oldest and most iconic monuments in England, Dover Castle is an 11th century fortress offering an immersive medieval experience for the whole family. Be transported through time as you step inside the Great Tower and war-time tunnels, and watch history come alive with castle sieges, grand medieval jousting events, and chivalrous knight tournaments.
Make your way to the architecturally stunning Canterbury Cathedral, one of Europe’s great pilgrimage destinations. Marvel at the ornate windows and medieval stained glass, or stroll the surrounding cathedral grounds. Ancient walls encircle the city of Canterbury, where cobbled streets are home to shops, restaurants, museums, and cultural festivals.
Spectacular coastline, rambling countryside, and medieval ruins converge in the charming heart of Hastings Old Town. Known for the Battle of Hastings in 1066, this seaside town is steeped in history and bursting with modern cultural events like Old Town Carnival Week and the Seafood and Wine Festival. The eclectic restaurants lining High Street are sure to satisfy all tastes.
Everyone's Dream Vacation... A stay in Camber Sands puts the best of East Sussex at your doorstep. Lounge on the UK’s finest sandy beach, meander quaint fishing villages with cobbled lanes, discover fine dining experiences to dazzle your tastebuds, and explore ancient history among magnificent castle ruins.
OUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANTS... Discerning foodies, look no further than Camber and Rye for innovative restaurants serving fresh, local ingredients. Here are our top five favourites!
1
The Gallivant...
T: 44 1797 225057
Named among SquareMeal’s Top 100 UK Restaurants, The Gallivant is a fine dining institution known for its modern British cuisine and quality local ingredients. From the award-winning English wines to the fresh catch of the day, virtually everything on the menu is sourced within 15 miles of the restaurant. Try the Romney Salt Marsh Lamb - it’s superb!
2
The Owlers Beach Grill...
T: 44 1797 225284
For British seaside fare and a locally brewed ale or cider, head to the Owlers Beach Grill, a dog-friendly pub located right next to the beach. Locally sourced and delicious, the lightly battered fish, chips, and pea puree are a delectable trio. With varied menus and the freshest quality ingredients, Sunday lunches are not to be missed!
3
The Standard Inn...
4 5
T: 44 1797 225231
With original wood beams, a warm brick fireplace, and a rich history dating back to the 15th century, The Standard Inn is a community mainstay celebrated by locals and travellers alike. This cosy hideaway serves fresh fish caught daily in Rye Harbour, as well as the best Sussex beef and chorizo burger in town.
The George...
T: 44 1797 222114
Stop by The George for quintessential afternoon tea in the courtyard garden, or grab a seat in the dining room for surf and turf from the wood-fired oven. Set along Rye’s bustling High Street, The George has welcomed many distinguished guests through its doors, from Kings of England to Hollywood’s biggest stars.
The Globe Inn Marsh...
T: 44 1797 225220
Cosy and eclectic, the Globe Inn Marsh is a traditional pub with a quirky twist. Its rotating list of daily specials offers something for everyone, and its quality ingredients are sourced from local farmers, fishmongers, and grocers. Sip a beverage by the roaring open fire, or savour home-style cooking on the outdoor patio.
STAYING WITH US: WHAT TO EXPECT Our hand-selected holiday cottages are the perfect home base for your next jaunt to the coast and countryside, whether you're a family looking to discover Camber Sands together, couples seeking some well-deserved rest and relaxation, or culinary aficionados coming to explore the area's long-standing foodie tradition. We can’t wait to welcome you, and we hope you’ll feel right at home here.
Accessible Hosts As your hosts, we delight in making your holiday everything you imagined it would be. If there’s anything we can do to make your experience more enjoyable, do let us know! We live just 5 minutes away, and we're available to answer any questions you may have before and during your stay. We look forward to welcoming you to Camber Sands!
Commitment to Quality No detail goes unnoticed! Being locally based, we - your friendly host team - personally tend to all the little details that comprise an extraordinary holiday. From the fresh, immaculate interiors to the welcoming touches awaiting your arrival, we stop at nothing to ensure our accommodations exceed every standard of comfort and hospitality.
Seaside Location Our cottages are in the charming village of Camber, within strolling distance of Camber Sands Beach, an endless stretch of golden sand along England’s southern coast. Nearby, the historic port town of Rye is waiting to be explored. Known for its cobblestone streets and seafaring tales of naval battles, violent storms, lifeboat heroics, and smuggling, Rye is regarded as one of the prettiest towns in England.
BESIDE THE SEA Reviews Lizzie says
Justin says
Lynn says
Another lovely trip to Camber. It's always so easy to book a stay with Beside the Sea, and I know that the accommodation will be top notch. There simply aren't many places you can go to where a generous welcome basket is waiting for you upon your arrival, and Sophie is at the door to offer a warm welcome and ask if everything is okay. We will definitely be returning.
We keep coming back! We have been using Beside The Sea for nearly 10 years! The wonderful memories etched in our young kids over this time have been made possible by the lovely places we've stayed at in Camber with Beside The Sea and we keep coming back every year.
Great attention to detail! The house was immaculately clean with loads of extra touches to welcome us, including a beautiful cake, wine, juice, and milk waiting for us in the fridge. Richard and Sophie were great, checking to see that all was well and that we were happy with the accommodation. This is the first time we have used Beside the Sea, and it wont be the last. Thank you for a wonderful week.
Thanks for staying with us!
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