Coastal Christmas
Coastal Christmas
A coastal Christmas in Rye
Wintery escapes for a coastal Christmas are hugely popular, as the darker nights set in and our minds wander to thoughts of the festive period. The stunning town of Rye is the perfect place for a coastal Christmas escape. Wander the cobbled streets, taking in the festive Christmas lights and marvel in the competitive window displays. Every year we have a magical Christmas weekend of late night shopping, reindeer, skating and a host of other activities. Join in one of our beautiful carol concerts in St Mary’s that sit high at the top of the town.
Shopping for a coastal Christmas
For the discerning shopper who likes supporting the smaller independent shops. Escape the vast city centres and shopping malls. Rye has a plethora of fabulous shops with an array of gifts for everyone. From the Antique Emporium to the kitschy stocking fillers, cashmere and ceramics, plants and paintings – we have it all.
These are a few of our favourites. For interiors, lifestyle, art and antique shops check out McCully & Crane, Rye Emporium, Ashbees 100 , Alex Macarthur Interiors, Puckhaber Decorative Antiques, Rae Lifestyle and Soap and Salvation for curated pieces.
Lola & Sidney for some quirky decorations, risqué candles and neon signs. For scents, blankets, rugs and gorgeous mugs (as found in The Barn) from Hunter Jones. For clothes and accessories try Cordelia James or a snazzy shirt from Bennets the gentleman’s outfitters.
Eating
Stopping off at Knoops for a sensational hot chocolate (now to be found in the Kings Road, Kensington, Clapham and Richmond) situated by the Landgate Arch it is a great place to begin your wander. On the other side of town, The Mermaid Street Cafe with its scrumptious homemade scotch eggs (to die for), sausage rolls, Rye Bay Coffee. Furthermore it has an open terrace on a fine crisp morning for breakfast. The White House and similarly The Fig vie for my affections as both offer the most fabulous culinary fare – brunch, lunch and now ‘small’ plates for evening meals at The Fig. Perfect before a movie night at Kino – our art house digital cinema showing all the best in mainstream and art house viewing.
Walking up an appetite
After a few hours of meandering through the streets and stopping off for some tasty treats. There is no better way to conclude the day than a brisk walk on Camber Sands. Or the beauty of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve with a chance of spotting some migrating birds or growing seal population. Take in the cliffs at Fairlight Hills, part of Hastings County Park. All a short drive from Rye. Perfect spots for working up an appetite to visit one of our fine local vineyards such as Chapel Down Vineyard, in addition book in for dinner at The Swan their wonderful restaurant.
Accommodation in Rye
Close to our glorious Camber Sands, we have a number of fabulous properties situated in Rye. The Playhouse for a romantic escape for two, Ockman House for a family celebration or met up with friends in the heart of the citadel. Riverside escapes at The Cabin or Wrest Cottage both within easy walking from the centre of the town.
