The Hope Anchor in Rye, East Sussex

This mid-18th century former inn offers a unique range of accommodation, arresting views and a strong sense of history.

Built around 1750 for local sailors and ship builders, the building is thought to have once sheltered the Tenterden gang, who used its many secret passages for smuggling. Whilst these have long since been sealed, The Hope Anchor retains an historic atmosphere. Relax beside a log fire in traditional snug bar, and spend your nights in a choice of fascinating rooms, including those with 4-poster beds and a even a separate 200 year old cottage.

The hotel is a 3-star AA rated hotel and has an RAC food dining award.

Please note that over bank holidays minimum stays are applied. Please search for 2 night stays across the following dates: 21st-24th March, 2nd-5th May, 23rd - 26th May, 22nd-25th August. Please search for 3 night stays across the following dates: 24th,25th,26th December.
The Hope Anchor, as its name suggests, was built primarily as a watering hole for the sailors and ship builders of Rye, which was still surrounded by the sea up until the late 18th century. The frequent haunt of the Tenterden gang of smugglers, pistol fights were common in the area - legend has it that the gang returned here victorious after famously outgunning their feared Hawkhurst rivals.

Whilst things are now a little more sedate, The Hope Anchor retains a sense of its past and its traditional bar is still popular with the locals. The hotel itself has fantastic views of the stunning countryside, marshes and sea.

Breakfast is included in the room rate and cooked to order. You can choose from either Full English or vegetarian options, as well as a variety of fruits, cereals, croissants and locally produced preserves.

Directions.
By car :
From the M20:
- Leave the M20 at junction 10 and move to the A2070 signed Lydd and Brenzet.
- Follow the A2070 to Brookland roundabout (near the 'Total' petrol station).
- Take the 2nd exit onto A259, signed Rye and Hastings.
- Once you reach Rye itself, travel round the town's 1-way system and enter the high street through the Landgate Arch (a stone archway).
- Take your 1st left after the right-hand bend.
- Follow on up the hill and take your 1st left.
- This will take you onto the cobbled street.
- Follow the street right and then carry on straight into Watch Bell Street and you will come to The Hope Anchor at the end of Watch Bell Street.

From the A2/M2:
- Take the A2 out of London, leading onto the M2.
- Leave the M2 at junction 3 and take the A229 to join the M20 at junction 6.
- Continue down the M20 leaving at junction 10.
- Follow directions as outlined above.

From the M25 (via the A21):
- Exit the M25 at junction 5.
- Proceed down the A21 towards Hastings.
- At Flimwell turn left onto the A268 (signposted Hawkhurst).
- This road will take you to Rye. See above for remaining directions.

15 rooms

Restaurant

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