Owned by respected fashion designer Lionel Copley, a night at this grand old rectory on the edge of Hastings Old Town is a real treat. It has stacks of period character - part of the house dates back to the 14th century, while the wings are Georgian and Victorian - but the decor is bang up to date, with plush velvets, vintage flock wallpaper and plenty of eclectic art. In winter, kick back by the open fireplace in the lounge with a warming whisky, and in the summer take tea in the Victorian walled garden. And if you're not relaxed enough, head to the tiny but oh-so-delightful spa, which has three treatment rooms.
We love Hastings Old Town with its crooked fisherman's cottages, dusty antiques shops and fancy delis lining the High Street.
The Old Rectory is just 10 minutes' walk from the beach and right on the edge of Hastings' historic old town.
By car: Easily accessible from Folkestone (1 hour 5 mins), Royal Tunbridge Wells (45 mins) and Brighton (1 hour 15 mins). There's plenty of free on-street parking nearby.
By train: There's a bus stop right outside the hotel with services to the town and Hastings train station, which is served by Southern trains to Eastbourne, Brighton, London Victoria (2 hours) and Charing Cross (1 hour 30 mins). thetrainline.com
The Old Rectory attracts a stylish and loyal clientele, as well as timeless romancers looking for an upmarket seaside escape. We are particularly fond of the Victorian walled garden, which has a quiet and romantic 'Secret Garden' appeal.
Susie and Tina are the perfect hosts - warm, welcoming and effortlessly helpful.
- Honesty bar
- Breakfast room
- Garden
- Treatment rooms
- Wedding venue
- Limited free parking
We love the Cobourg, a light and peaceful room with a huge window overlooking the walled garden. The tea trays with proper coffee, organic teas and home-baked biscuits are a nice touch.
All Saints, Sinnock, Crown, Ebenezer, Croft, Tackleway, Cobourg, Rock a Nore, All Saints Suite
Facilities include: double bed, ensuite bathroom with shower, luxury Copley toiletries, free Wi-Fi, TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, DVDs, books
We love the grandeur of breakfast time. The dining room has beautiful hand-painted wallpaper and overlooks the front flower garden.The fried potato cake topped with crispy home-cured bacon, tomato compote, wilted spinach and a perfectly poached egg is spot on.
The breakfast room: locally sourced produce. Sausages, bacon, granola, muesli, bread and preserves all made on-site. Two-course a la carte breakfast included in room rate. Served daily 8.30-10am.
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