With a magnificent coastline, there is no shortage of charming seaside towns to explore, and you might get lucky discovering a dinosaur fossil. If you are thinking of beaches, you can stroll around the charming town of Hastings or the more popular Brighton Beach to unwind. Otherwise, you can opt to roam in the inner towns and villages to explore the beautiful outdoors. South Downs Way is also another place for a retreat, with its walking trail and view of the famous chalk drawing of Long Man of Wilmington.
The gorgeous staycation spots in East Sussex are set in charming towns and villages, all sea-facing or surrounded by acres of mature gardens. Reminiscing places you’ve been to and appreciating your locality’s beauty would be a fun way to recharge for a while. Read on to discover the best staycations in East Sussex, UK.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 13, 2024.
1. Flackley Ash Hotel & Restaurant, Rye (from USD 138)
This charming Georgian country house set amidst 5 ac (2 ha) of mature gardens has been converted into the most accommodating 44-room hotel. All the rooms are bright and feature wide windows that welcome natural light. This countryside retreat prides itself on providing the ultimate relaxing experience with massages, body treatments, and a hydro pool. There is also a 40-ft (12-m) indoor heated pool and a fitness room overlooking the gardens at your disposal.
The cobbled streets of Rye are rich with history, and the town is packed with well-preserved sights you can revisit, such as St Mary’s Church, Camber Castle, and Ypres Tower. Take a stroll and explore Rye from some of the famous walks, such as Peasmarsh Walk or the Broad Oak Walk.
2. Dale Hill Hotel, Ticehurst (from USD 135)
Great value for money with spacious rooms and excellent facilities.
Leisure facilities include a swimming pool, sauna, and gym. Lovely views of the golf course.
Picturesque location, perfect for sightseeing and golfing. Peaceful and serene surroundings.
Excellent breakfast range with cooked and continental options. Good quality dining with some room for improvement.
Spread across 350 ac (142 ha) and featuring two golf courses, Dale Hill Hotel is an excellent staycation spot for golf enthusiasts in the village of Ticehurst. Each of the 50 rooms is spacious and offers expansive views of the course. After a round of golf, Lounge & Clubhouse Bar is a great place to sit back with a drink before heading to The Orangery for a meal. And you cannot beat the views from its outdoor terrace. You might need to book the popular outdoor tables in advance.
With a fitness center and an indoor swimming pool, you can be sure your gym routine will not suffer even when on a break.
3. Hydro Hotel, Eastbourne (from USD 109)
Welcoming guests since 1895, Hydro Hotel was designed keeping relaxation in mind. And even today, guests are sure to feel a sense of calm when enjoying clifftop views of the English Channel. Eastbourne is famed for its natural beauty. You can explore the hotel grounds or head out and take a walk along Beachy Head and feel like a tourist in your own backyard.
The hotel even offers a range of seasonal packages to plan your seaside getaway during your favorite time of the year. When staying here, it is a must to try their afternoon tea, served daily between 3pm and 5:30pm, which even comes with vegan sandwiches and scones. Afternoon tea at the hotel is quite popular, and advanced booking is recommended.
4. Deans Place Hotel, Alfriston (from USD 184)
This family-run property with just 35 rooms is an idyllic escape in the English countryside. Whether you are here to celebrate a special anniversary or with family, you can be sure to have a pleasant time. And since this is a pet-friendly property, you do not have to leave your furry friend at home. You can bring your pet along for just 10 GBP (11 USD) per night.
Take a swim in the outdoor heated pool, walk along the property grounds, or explore South Downs National Park.
Deans Place Hotel
Address: Seaford Road
5. The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne (from USD 258)
Fair pricing with breakfast included, but extra charges for certain items
Spacious indoor and outdoor pools, beautiful interior, but some areas in need of refurbishment
Charming seafront location, close to town center and beach, great for exploring
Outstanding breakfast, excellent dining experiences, but some service issues
This 5-star property by the sea is one of the top choices for a luxurious staycation in East Sussex. On select Sundays throughout the year, step back in time when the hotel hosts a musical afternoon tea, where guests are serenaded by Shelley Van Loen and her Palm Court Quartet dressed in attire from the 1920s. A staycation is incomplete without some pampering, and this hotel’s spa offers a wide range of massages and facials for much-needed relaxation. You can also get a nice tan by the outdoor pool or swim in the heated outdoor pool.
Before you head home, take a leisurely walk along Eastbourne Promenade, and visit the boardwalk to catch a scenic sunset.
6. Royal Victoria Hotel, Hastings (from USD 107)
Built in 1828, this opulent hotel has played host to Queen Victoria and is named in her honor. As you step through the rotating glass doors and glance at the antique furnishings and the grand marble staircase, you can feel the elegance and sophistication of a bygone era. Each of the 50 rooms at the hotel is elegantly decorated, keeping the history of the building in mind.
Spend your day on Hastings Beach, and later enjoy a delicious meal at Sea Terrace Restaurant with unfiltered sea views.
Royal Victoria Hotel
Address: Marina, St Leonards-On-Sea
7. East Sussex National Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, Uckfield (from USD 133)
Good value for spacious, clean rooms and lovely location.
Brilliant facilities including a pool, gym, and spa. Large parking area.
Lovely peaceful location with beautiful views of the countryside, near Uckfield and Glyndebourne.
Varied breakfast, good quality food, with some room for improvement in terms of options and temperature.
This sprawling estate spread across 1,100 ac (445 ha) is an excellent retreat with award-winning restaurants, two golf courses, and a spa. Each of the 104 rooms at this gorgeous property overlooks the famous South Downs Way and the championship golf courses. While the Classic Bedrooms and the Family Rooms welcome natural light via the skylights, the Executive Club Rooms and the Luxury Suites come with a private balcony, the perfect place for a morning cup of tea.
The hotel also hosts several fun events, such as Wurlitzer concerts and afternoon tea dances throughout the year, and you can plan your staycation around them for a memorable stay. But if you are not in the mood to tap your feet, head to the award-winning Horsted Spa for a wide range of body, facial, and even holistic treatments.
8. The Brickwall Hotel, Sedlescombe (from USD 100)
Great value for money with spacious rooms and comfortable beds.
Excellent facilities, friendly and professional staff, and ample car parking space.
Conveniently located in a lovely village with a quaint, cozy vibe and easy access to nearby attractions.
Delicious and well-priced dining options, including a marvelous breakfast and excellent dinner choices.
This family-run hotel is in a 16th-century Tudor mansion with 22 rooms and offers a private staycation in the English countryside. The spacious wood-paneled rooms are elegantly decorated and have a small seating space. Explore the hotel grounds or walk around the village and end it with a pint at the 15th-century The Queen’s Head pub.
This place is one of those staycation destinations where all you want to do is sleep in and enjoy good food.
The Brickwall Hotel
Address: The Green, Sedlescombe, Battle
9. The Bannatyne Spa Hotel, Hastings (from USD 217)
This breathtaking dog-friendly property is surrounded by 38 ac (15 ha) of mature gardens and woodland. Children and their furry friends alike will love spending time in the cast outdoor spaces and playing under the sun. There is much to see and do around Hastings, from Shipwreck Museum and Druisillars Park to getting a tan at Hastings Beach and walking the Cookoo Trail.
You can also lounge in the hotel gardens with your favorite cocktail or head to the Bannatyne Spa. There is a wide range of special treatments and packages, such as Twilight Treat or Afternoon Delight with High Tea.
10. Crowhurst Park, Sedlescombe
This holiday village in the East Sussex countryside allows you to enjoy the area’s natural beauty to a maximum hilt. There is something for every age group, with a wide range of activities such as fishing, tennis, quiz night, adventure park, and bingo. Choose from the 14 different styles of wooden lodges with a picnic table or outdoor furniture so you can enjoy the excellent weather.
The on-site Therapy Lodge and Rose Petals Beauty have a wide range of services to ensure you have the most relaxing stay. Pick from an Indian head massage, reiki, couples massage, or facial at either of these establishments. And if you wish to make a splash, there is an 18-m (59-ft) heated indoor pool and a children’s pool.
Staycations in charming East Sussex
Why travel far when you can enjoy the rolling hills, famous walking trails, beaches, and scenic views of East Sussex? Explore your locality and stay at one of these fantastic staycations in East Sussex, UK, for a rejuvenating break.
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