Hastings Beach

A beautiful relaxing day on our trip as we explored Rye. It is a beautiful village and just so full of character. You want to take photos at every corner and it is so quiet and peaceful- just a few locals and tourists walking about. Our accomodation is so special. Part of the deal was the breakfast and it was so good that we have had to eat little else all day. It was served in a beautiful old dining room and there were several other guests eating there too. There was cereal and fruit followed by a choice of something cooked from the extensive menu. Also toast and coffee/tea served at the table and of course all on beautiful old crockery. It was a real treat. We then headed off to explore the castle, the town gate, Mary’s Church and graveyard and the many quirky little antique and craft shops that are scattered about. The castle also known as Ypres Tower, was built in 1249 and it was fascinating and had a very basic museum set up in it, but it was still very interesting. We spent until 2 pm walking and by now surprisingly enjoying the frequent snow flurries which just added to the scenic streets. It actually wasn’t that cold, and the sun kept shining in between. Apparently it was unusual to have snow in Rye, and we joined the locals trying to take photos of it. After a lovely coffee stop we headed to the car for a trip out to Winchelsea Beach. It was 10 minutes away and with it being such a miserable afternoon it was not at all inviting- but not actually sure it would even be on the height of summer even though there were many permanent caravan homes there. We drove back to the car park and wandered up to the Standard Pub for a lovely drink with Tony and Tim ( T&T) , the local couple who had befriended us last night. They are real characters and very interesting to chat to. On returning to Jeakes House we relaxed in the lounge which is just beautiful and so warm, before heading across the road to the Mermaid Inn for dinner. The meal was two courses but preceded by a canapé and also breads. The main was a seafood platter that we shared followed by delicious desserts. The service was excellent, as was the company of two different couples that we ended up talking to. It was a lovely night and we have our fingers crossed that the sunshine promised for tomorrow’s trip to Castle Combe will eventuate.Read more