The Gallivant in Camber Sands, East Sussex — Seaside Hotel

Camber Sands, East Sussex

Where the Dunes Meet Delight

Sand between your toes, cocktail in hand — the English coast never looked so good.

Tucked behind the sweeping dunes of Camber Sands, The Gallivant has quietly become one of England's most covetable coastal retreats — and the accolades are catching up fast. Named VisitEngland's Small Hotel of the Year 2024 and the recipient of a coveted Michelin Key, this East Sussex gem proves that a staycation can feel every bit as restorative as a far-flung escape. Thoughtfully designed rooms with oak floors, beamed ceilings and sensationally comfortable beds set the tone: this is a place built for genuine unwinding, not Instagram posturing.

The pleasures here are beautifully uncomplicated. Rise early for a yoga class, then spend your morning barefoot on one of England's finest sandy beaches. By afternoon, the Drinks in the Dunes package beckons — cocktails in hand, salt air all around, nowhere else in the world you'd rather be. The Beach Hut Cabin spa offers a quietly indulgent counterpoint, while Harry's restaurant delivers ingredient-led, French brasserie-inspired menus that are as unfussy as they are flavourful. Four-legged companions are warmly welcomed, making this equally ideal for couples seeking romance and families who simply can't leave the dog behind.

The Gallivant doesn't try to dazzle with excess. Instead, it does something rather rarer and more valuable: it slows time. You arrive slightly frazzled and leave, as the hotel promises, genuinely happy. In a landscape of overhyped boutique properties, that quiet confidence is its own kind of luxury.

Notable Features

What Sets It Apart

  • Camber Sands beach
  • Yoga classes
  • Drinks in the Dunes package
  • Beach Hut Cabin spa
  • Dog-friendly

Gallery

Inside & Out

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Guest Voices

What They Say

My stay at The Gallivant was truly wonderful from beginning to end, and I cannot speak highly enough of the experience. The hotel itself is so beautiful. Every space felt welcoming and carefully considered, it created an atmosphere that was instantly relaxing and deeply comforting. The Gallivant team was amazing! Everyone I encountered was kind, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. I felt very well looked after throughout my stay, in a way that felt natural and sincere rather than formal. The food was absolutely delicious and a real highlight of the visit. Thank you for such a lovely stay. Even though I was only there for one night, I loved it immensely and cannot wait to return!

Aglaia Gelpke5/5

We had the most amazing new years stay at the Gallivant and were hugely impressed by the lovely friendly staff, special thanks have to go to Lyndsay for being outstanding in every way! All the staff were superb and all were so friendly and welcoming to us and our flat coat retriever Harry who I think many of them fell in love with!! We will definitely be back!! Only one thought for the rooms , an espresso machine would be a welcome addition! We loved the rooms and particularly liked the pretty outdoor space you have created ! Also very much enjoyed the yoga this morning! So a fantastic start to 2026 for us , and we will definitely visit you again ❤️

lesley alcock5/5

We had a fabulous two night stay and honestly cannot fault this venue. It was wonderfully relaxing from start to finish. The staff, the food, and the rooms were all excellent. In particular, Martin, AKA Daniel, of whom was a constant source of entertainment, who went well above and beyond. In the words of Lilly Allen, it was "fanastic"

Bookworms Inbox5/5

The Gallivant is a hidden gem. Everything about my stay was excellent. Clearly Harry knows how to do hospitality. The rooms are characterful, housekeeping is to a high level, the guest areas are homely and welcoming. Two big callouts: firstly the food is excellent. Fresh and beautifully prepared. Secondly, the staff is exceptional. I’m calling out a few by name but they were all great! Nikita, Lorena, Daniel and Louie. Thanks for taking such great care of me! Gill x

Gill Taylor5/5

We had a lovely overnight stay - the room was beautifully appointed and we wanted for nothing. The restaurant and bar are lovely spaces, really smart but comfortable and not intimidating. The food in the restaurant was really lovely and the staff we came across during our short stay were incredibly friendly, helpful and professional. It was great to see a fantastic wine list with nice wine to suit all budgets. If anything, and its a small thing, the 4pm check in seems quite late in comparison to other hotels we have stayed at which are a similar standard.

Jo Edmonds5/5

The Gallivant

New Lydd Rd, Camber, Rye TN31 7RB, UK

Guest Rating

4.4/ 5

Based on 598 reviews

Category

Mid-Range

Location

Camber Sands, East Sussex

Price Range

£150-250/night

Style

Seaside Hotel

Best For

beach loversyogacouples
Dog-Friendly
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