Camber in East Sussex is not exactly a hidden spot. The village has long brought tourists from all over the world thanks to its location next to the long golden beach of Camber Sands. While camber can be associated with caravan parks and fish and chip shops, the area has become a recent luxury market, balancing these classic seaside elements with boutique hotels and fine dining.
For example, consider Gallivant. This adult-only beach hotel ranked 66th in 2025 at the Times' 100 best locations. They explained the atmosphere of the hotel as follows: Mid-century lounges are the perfect space for books and mid-afternoon cakes, and the bar is so beautiful? ”
The hotel's restaurant, Harry's, has also been praised for the publication. “(Chef) Matthew Harris has introduced an interesting menu curated from seasonal British ingredients into classic French flavours. Predict the mains, such as pistachio or turnip, fennel and blood orange cambu, and Mark Fillette with Bouf Bourgionon or Mark Fillette.
Just below is the owl, a pub with rooms at the seaside, and a bit of a bib on top of the dunes from Camber Sands. In addition to cozy rooms with a boutique hotel atmosphere, there is a traditional English pub that serves heartfelt breakfasts and locally grown seafood. Visiting during the cold season will allow you to enjoy a brace walk on the beach. Then there is a pint in front of the open fireplace.
Camber offers plenty of dining options, including the Rye Bayber & Grill, perfect for a relaxing lunch. Or simply enjoy takeout fish and chips while sitting on the sand.
Camber Sand came in third place when Timeout compiled a list of 37 Brilliant Beaches in the UK. They said: “Despite its popularity, its vast size means that there is a place to lay the towels, nearly three miles long and over a mile wide when the tide goes off.
“The background of the Tufty Dunes, the sand stretches as long as you can see, scattering dog walkers (note the limit zones from May to September) and scattering horse riders, bits in the seaside atmosphere.
The timeout also gives tips on securing the best beach locations, saying, “If you're trying to escape the horde, the western edge tends to be a bit quieter towards the dungeons. Follow the windsurfers.”
On sunny days there are plenty of wind surfers, kite surfers, paddle borders and more. Along the sea line there are several places that offer courses that run courses for equipment hire and beginners and those who want to hone their skills. Or, if it's safe, you can simply soak in the ocean. There is a lifeguard on duty during peak season,
If you can tear yourself apart from the beach, visit Camber Castle, just 15 minutes' drive away. Built by King Henry VIII, the castle ruins are surrounded by beautiful Sussex countryside and offer fantastic country strolls.
The rye is just 10 minutes away, with cobblestones, medieval streets and charming historic architecture. Visit the Rye Castle Museum, located inside a 14th century tower, or walk through narrow lanes filled with independent shops.
Rye also has many great options for your meal. The town's independent cafe, Figs attracted attention when they joined Master Chef: The Professionals. The figs focus on fresh and healthy dishes, with a wide selection of small plates and vegetarian and vegan dishes.
