The Gallivant, East Sussex
Facing the majestic sandy sweep of Camber Sands just outside the fascinating medieval town of Rye on the south coast, this is a unique seaside hotel transformed from a one-time motel into something that could have come straight out of the Hamptons. Daily yoga, talks and workshops put the accent on wellbeing, but that also comes through strongly in the wonderful food and drink, served in a chic, adult-only dining room.
Expect best English wines and dishes based on fresh local ingredients from land and sea. The menu changes monthly to reflect seasonal produce but features the likes of wood-grilled Romney lamb chops with green sauce, and Rye Bay gurnard with pickled mussels, Indian spices and coriander. Breakfasts are outstanding too, with dishes ranging from Dutch pancake with caramelised Kent apple, apple cider caramel and crème fraîche to Turkish poached hen’s eggs, lemon and dill yoghurt, smoked paprika butter and chilli.