This cool little hotel stands across the road from Camber Sands, where five miles of pristine beach are home to kite surfers, beach cricketers and sun worshipers alike. As for the Gallivant, a refurbishment brought a stunning new look to every corner. Bedrooms, small and large, and now things of great beauty. Snug cabin rooms are clad in wood with brass lamps hanging from the ceiling; baby Hamptons have daybeds and marble bathrooms; deck rooms at the back come in cool whites with doors onto private terraces. Then come the garden rooms – heaven for hedonists – with double-ended baths in the room (and doors that slide for privacy), then small decks in the garden, where you’ll also find a massage hut and deckchairs in summer. All have great storage, flawless bathrooms and crisp linen for Hypnos beds. As for the food, most is sourced within 10 miles and you eat in an airy restaurant that opens onto a terrace in summer, perhaps cod with lime and cucumber, salt marsh lamb with root veg, chocolate torte with Frangelico jelly. There’s tea and cake ‘on the house’ every afternoon, too.
Comfortable, cosy rooms with good amenities, No 19 had a small terrace. The food was surprisingly good, meat and fish dishes changed daily, the chocolate mousse was excellent. Friendly staff gave efficient service. Vineyards and castles nearby to visit, also Rye and Tenterden.