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Hotel Review: Laidback luxury at The Gallivant, Rye
By Tessa Crowley | 14 February 2025 | Food & Drink, Travel
Tempus discovers the quintessential British charm of East Sussex’s charismatic boutique hideaway, The Gallivant
Known for its dramatic coastline, artistic appeal, and rich history, East Sussex is a popular spot for a quintessential English seaside escape. Perched halfway along the coastal road to Camber, by Camber Sands’ charming reaches, The Gallivant is an unexpected and luxurious hidden hideaway.On a grey February afternoon, the boutique hotel is a cocoon of comfort tucked away near the windswept beach. Its coastal gravel garden is reminiscent of warmer climes, with grasses and seed heads waving beneath the fronds of palms, and a wealth of pots brimming with succulents to welcome you into the lobby’s embrace.
Here, it’s all sophisticated charm. The epitome of British seaside chic, they’ve avoided nautical clichés to create an elevated atmosphere suited to its adult-only, dog-loving clientele. By all means, check the weather and tides in reception, pop on a pair of wellies, and grab a Finisterre robe on your way to take the sea air — but pair these practicalities with the roaring log fire, sumptuous textures, dried grasses and floral displays all suited to a contemporary beach home. Every corner exudes effortless allure.
Passing the bar, Harry’s beckons. The newly opened on-site restaurant is helmed by Executive Chef Matthew Harris, whose impressive CV includes time at enduring London favourite Bibendum. Here, the sophisticated member’s club undercurrent is shaken off in favour of light tones, artful upcycled furniture, and playful vintage swimsuits, positioned to catch the eye.
Embracing seasonal produce, the frequently changing menu offers an elevated French influence, which on our visit doesn’t fail to delight. Maldon oysters and sauce mignonette jostle for attention next to dishes such as terrine de campagne aux pistaches; and crab, fennel and blood orange. Mains include classic French fare from rabbit legs to joue de boeuf a la bourguignonne, or hake with monks beard and pine nuts. Venison carpaccio was finely sliced and balanced with quince, hazelnuts and bitter leaves, while my main of gnocchi with pumpkin purée and sage proved incredibly moreish and light. Lingering into the evening, as the lights dimmed and the volume rose, we enjoyed a nightcap from the well-stocked selection of cognacs, armagnacs, and whiskies.
The following morning, if low tides or inclination don’t beckon you to the beach for a pre-breakfast walk or dip, the complimentary 8am yoga class is a great way to blow away any cobwebs. Afterwards, a short walk across the verdant terrace will see you seated at your table for The Gallivant’s hearty breakfast, served table-side with an array of delicious delicacies — from breakfast salads and smoked salmon, to local cheese, and optional extras available buffet-style.
Our overall impression of The Gallivant was one of laidback luxury and cordial company, with a focus on guest experiences, fitting for the charmingly off-grid location. One such, an ongoing partnership with Talisker, could tempt even the most tech-obsessed away from their screens and out into the sands. Kitted out with picnic bags brimming with cheese and crackers, picnic blankets and Finisterre robes, we were offered our choice of Talisker 12 or flasks of decadent hot chocolate — a tantalising mix of melted cacao nibs and a tot of Talisker — and sent down to the beach, setting the scene for an exceptional dune-side sundowner on Camber Sands. A popular spot for local dogwalkers and visitors to the area, seated among the grasses overlooking it’s wide sweeping beach and endless skies, you can see why.
For days when the typical British weather offers endless drizzle instead, The Gallivant popular ‘Wine at Five’ hour for residents is not to be missed. Settle into The Snug or next to the log fire to enjoy a crisp glass of English wine, selected by the knowledgeable team from one of the UK’s impressive array of vineyards.
And for those days when you want to brush up on a little culture or retail therapy, Rye is a mere five minutes by car. A popular spot for antiques and arts, sophisticated clothing boutiques, or a spot of tea when you tire of strolling its historic higgledy-piggledy streets. For the culturally inclined, East Sussex has a wealth of inspiring destinations, whether taking in the gorgeous gardens at famed Great Dixter or strolling past the windswept exteriors of Prospect Cottage.
All in all, while the edge of Camber Sands might not initially seem a likely location for a luxury boutique, for discerning travellers looking to reconnect with nature; chic and convivial, The Gallivant is the perfect base.