George in Rye

MINUTES AWAY from the bracing sands of Sussex, The George in Rye makes a stylish hideaway at the heart of this fetching old sea town.

Owners Alex and Katie Clarke  have turned the former Tudor coaching inn into an address packed with flair. There’s plenty of Wow factor in the bedrooms – all individually styled – with their clever mix of antique and contemporary. Throw in marble top baths, chrome power showers, finest Frette linen sheets, sleek Aveda toiletries and a DVD library, and you have all the ingredients for an indulgent getaway. Do book well ahead here at weekends.

Book filled shelves, wi-fi access, retro Tivoli clock radios tuned into the classics and supremely comfortable beds ensure you won't be in a rush to leave your room. Some have nautical painted wood panelling – a touch of New England in Olde England – while others have contemporary four-posters and roll-rop baths.

Characterful cobbles

Everything is beautifully pulled together, with playful touches and bespoke features in every room. Some have quilted leather headboards or gorgeous wall coverings, with colour combos ranging from slate and sandstone to cinnamon and chocolate, or more nautical greens and creams.

Junior suites come with comfy cord sofas and big lamps. To keep your toes toasty in winter, there's even a hot water bottle in a little knitted jacket.

Join the locals at the George Tap bar downstairs or dine in the restaurant  (fish comes straight off the trawlers in Rye Bay). Cobbled streets brimming with character beg exploration outside.

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