When I was browsing the web for a last minute long weekend break, I was so happy to find that the Gallivant hotel in Camber Sands had a late cancellation. I wanted somewhere about an hour out of London, no need for a car, and somewhere near the beach. And the Gallivant ticked all those boxes and more. Here are a few reasons why you might want to take yourself for a weekend to this cute boutique hotel:

THE LOCATION

With just an over an hour train ride from central London, you can arrive at the Gallivant Hotel without feeling exhausted. The train pulls into the medieval town of Rye and a taxi can take you the quick 10 minute drive down to Camber Sands, East Sussex.

THE FOOD

Whether you’re grazing the morning breakfast table or indulging in their five course tasting menu, you will be blown away with the freshness and originality of the dishes at the Gallivant. The seafood was some of the freshest and tastiest I’ve eaten in the country and the wines on offer were equally divine. Sitting in the restaurant each morning with a large plunger of fresh coffee and the yummiest poached eggs were two reasons not to miss the breakfast! Oh and the “recovery station” where you can make your own bloody marys was pretty awesome too! 

THE SPA TREATMENTS

Please do yourself a favour when you visit the Gallivant, and book yourself in for a spa treatment. Outside the hotel in their private garden sits their day spa in the cutest little beach hut. Inside the wooden hut is a cosy treatment room for one, lit up with lights across the roof. Amy was my therapist and gave the most amazing slow deep tissue massage, one that I did not want to end.

THE BEACH

Just a hop, skip and a jump across the road, you will find Camber Sands beach. A very very long stretch of sand that is perfect for long walks on the beach (so cliche I know). I walked for 1.5 hours to the left and still had more beach to go. Luxury holiday homes and beach huts line the shore with a few beach kiosks and ice-cream stands – and the choc mint was to die for. Kite surfing is pretty popular here too. There’s also a colourful collection of Wellington boots to borrow for your walks too.

THE ROOMS

Rooms vary from ‘Cosy’, ‘Snug Cabin’ and ‘Baby Hampton’ in the main house to the more spacious and luxurious Deck rooms with outside decking, and Garden rooms which are super-large with roll top baths and pantries. I stayed in the Baby Hampton room which instantly transported me to a cool weekend in the Hamptons. Lashings of wood and beach luxe furniture create the perfect back drop for your weekend of relaxation.

THE FRIENDLY STAFF

Last but far from least, was the friendly staff at the Gallivant Hotel. From Faya on front reception to Kate on reservations, everyone greeted me with the biggest and friendliest smile. There was time for conversation in between the normal exchanges and their laid back attitudes were super refreshing compared to London.  No matter if you were asking for something to be changed on the menu, the service was timely and they always made you feel more than welcome.

So if you’re looking for your next weekend getaway, look no further than The Gallivant Hotel. Perfect for couples, families or groups getaways. For more information, please visit Gallivant Hotel’s website.