Camber in East Sussex has golden sands and soft dunes, and the village is becoming more upmarket with new dining options.
Camber, located in East Sussex, is no stranger to tourists. Thanks to its proximity to the stunning golden sands of Camber Sands beach, it has long been a favourite destination for visitors from around the globe.
While traditionally associated with caravan parks and fish and chip shops, Camber has recently seen an influx of boutique hotels and high-end restaurants, adding a touch of luxury to the classic seaside experience.
Take The Gallivant, for instance. This adults-only beach hotel was ranked 66th in The Times’ 100 Best Places to Stay in the UK for 2025.
The hotel’s unique atmosphere was described as: “think New York’s Hamptons by way of Camber Sands” and its quirky decor was praised: ” Sure, rooms are compact, but they’re stylish and fun (we love the framed vintage swimsuits). Who cares if the weather’s dicey for the beach across the road when the mid-century-styled lounge is a snug space for books and mid-afternoon cake, and the bar is such a beauty?”.
The hotel’s restaurant, Harry’s, also received praise from The Times: “[Chef] Matthew Harris has introduced classic French flavours to an interesting menu curated from seasonal British ingredients. Expect terrine de campagne with pistachios or crab with fennel and blood orange plus mains such as boeuf bourguignon and mash or hake fillet with samphire.”
Just a stone’s throw away is The Owl, a charming pub with rooms on the seafront, a short stroll from the stunning Camber Sands. It boasts snug rooms that give off a boutique hotel feel, alongside a traditional English pub where you can tuck into a hearty breakfast or savour seafood caught just off the coast.
Pop by during the chillier months for a refreshing beach walk capped off with a pint by the roaring fire.
Camber offers plenty of dining options, including the Rye Bay Bar & Grill, conveniently located just next to the beach – ideal for a laid-back lunch. Alternatively, grab some takeaway fish and chips and enjoy them on the sandy shore.
When Time Out put together their list of the 37 Brilliant Beaches in the UK, Camber Sands snagged third place. They remarked: “despite its popularity, its vast size – almost three miles long and more than a mile wide when the tide’s out – means there’s usually somewhere to lay your towel, if not park your car (but really, the only quiet time is mid-week or off-season).
“With its backdrop of tufty dunes, sand stretching as far as the eye can see, and a scattering of dog-walkers (note the restricted zones from May to September) and horseback riders, it’s a hugely atmospheric bit of seaside – and perfect for combining with a day trip to the cobbled streets and medieval pubs of Rye.”
Time Out also offered a tip for those seeking tranquillity, suggesting: “If you are looking to escape the hordes, the western end, towards Dungeness, tends to be a bit quieter – just follow the windsurfers.”
On a sunny day, the beach is bustling with windsurfers, kite surfers, paddleboarders and more. There are several spots along the seafront where you can hire equipment or even take courses if you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills.
And of course, when it’s safe, you can always go for a swim in the sea. During the peak season, lifeguards are on duty.
If you can tear yourself away from the beach, Camber Castle is just a 15-minute drive away. The ruins of this castle, built by Henry VIII, are nestled in the stunning Sussex countryside and offer a fantastic rural walk.
Just 10 minutes away is Rye, a town full of cobbled, Medieval streets and charming historic architecture. You can visit the Rye Castle Museum, housed in a 14th-century tower, or wander down the narrow lanes filled with independent shops.
Rye also boasts a plenty of dining options. The Fig, an independent café in town, gained recognition when head chef Rosie Furnival appeared on MasterChef: The Professionals. The Fig specialises in fresh, healthy dishes, offering a wide range of small plates and lots of vegetarian and vegan options.