Follow in the footsteps of Elizabeth I and spend some time exploring the beautiful Cinque port market town of Rye. In 1573 she bestowed the title Rye Royale. Stay in this well thought out and stylish holiday cottage which is just a 6 minute walk from the centre of the town, with its large selection of pubs, restaurants and cafes. You could discover for yourself why many authors, musicians, artists and celebrities have chosen to settle here. Rye is one of the best preserved medieval towns in England, despite being the haunt of the notorious smugglers, The Hawkhurst Gang. Visit The Mermaid Inn, their famous hideout, where the cellars date back to 1156. Visit the Rye Museum and climb St Mary’s Tower for breathtaking views across to Rye Harbour Nature Reserve and Winchelsea. See Lamb House, the home of Henry James and later E. F. Benson, and where they filmed the recent production of ’Mapp and Lucia’. Another great film location is Camber Sands and going in the other direction towards Hastings where ’Foyles War’ was filmed. There are also connections by train to London. Shop 300 yards, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

Built to a good standard, these adjoining holiday cottages in the owners’ grounds are situated in the tiny village of Beddingham, which lies in the South Downs just off the Lewes to Eastbourne road (which although convenient, can be busy). The view to one side of the cottage is that of Mount Caburn, which is one of the highest landmarks in East Sussex and is the home of an Iron Age fort! Both cottages have wheelchair access to the ground floor rooms. Lewes, 2½ miles, is dominated by the ruins of a great Norman castle and boasts twisting medieval streets and tiny twittens. The port of Newhaven lies on the land with the shortest sea route between London and Paris and Seaford is a quiet, informal holiday resort from where Seaford Head, The Seven Sisters Country Park, Beachy Head and the village of Alfriston can all be visited. Glyndebourne and the outdoor opera, 2 miles. Drusillas Zoo Park, Charleston - the home of the artists Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant and rural bolt hole for the Bloomsbury group, Firle Place and Newhaven Fort are all a short drive. Eastbourne, 12 miles, Brighton 10 miles. Shop 1½ miles, pub 1 mile.

A fabulous wing of the owners' home just outside the medieval town of Rye. Excellent accommodation for families and couples. Dog-friendly. Stunning views and country walks direct from the door. Rye 2 miles.

Little London House, a stylishly presented semi-detached holiday home, is part of a 17th-century house adjoining the owner’s residence in the village of Ninfield, just 3.5 miles (10 minutes by car) from the sea. Originally serving as the village cobblers and later the local post office, it now offers welcoming accommodation. The property features an attractive enclosed terrace at the rear, providing an ideal spot for al fresco breakfasts or enjoying the late afternoon sun with a good book.
Perched on a ridge, Ninfield has historical significance, with tales suggesting that William the Conqueror planted his standard on the highest point during the Battle of Hastings in 1066. The village’s history is marked by smuggling, evident in the iron stocks and whipping posts that still stand. Nearby, Battle Abbey and Battlefield commemorate the famous confrontation of the Battle of Hastings. The market town of Battle, with its charming appeal, is perfect for afternoon tea. Known for its 17th-century gunpowder industry, the town celebrates the gunpowder plot each November with a spectacular firework display.
Explore the beaches at Bexhill, where the Art Deco De La Warr Pavilion hosts shows. Eastbourne, the heart of ’The Sunshine Coast,’ and Hastings, with its fascinating old town, pier, and castle ruins, are easily accessible. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy Herstmonceux Brick Farm Lakes with the required licence and day tickets. Visit Pevensey, Herstmonceux, the enchanting Bodiam Castle, or stroll through the antique shops in the historical settings of Rye or Royal Tunbridge Wells. Wine enthusiasts can book a tasting at a local award-winning vineyard. Convenient rail connections to London from Battle provide further sightseeing opportunities in the capital city. The beach is 5 miles away, with a shop at half a mile, and a pub and restaurant within 250 yards.

Full of character, this well thought out, quirky, beamed, first and second floor apartment is situated in the middle of Rye and offers ideal holiday accommodation. This is an excellent base from which to discover the cobbled streets, medieval buildings, delightful coffee shops, tea rooms and galleries, plus a plethora of antique shops and great restaurants. Rye was granted Cinque Port status in the 13th century, and during the 18th century was regarded as the smuggling capital of England. You can still see the old vaulted cellars where the smugglers’ contraband was stored. For centuries, Rye was an island with only one land connection at high tide to the mainland through the Landgate. Well known folk have lived in Rye over the years, including Henry James and E.F. Benson, who both dwelt at Lamb House (NT), albeit at different times! Mapp and Lucia, E.F. Benson’s series of comical stories set in the 1920s and 30s, was filmed by the BBC here in Rye. Further afield, explore the beautiful nature reserve at Rye Harbour, stroll amongst the sand dunes at Camber, another popular film location, hire bikes or play golf on the links. Rail connections from Rye via Ashford International to London Bridge. Beach 41/2 miles. Shop and restaurant 10 yards, pub 25 yards.