The Hope Anchor Hotel - Rye

AA 3-star historic inn with countryside views and smuggling history

Rooms & Accommodations

The Hope Anchor offers individually styled rooms with en suite bathrooms, tea and coffee facilities, and some include a four poster bed. The Hope Anchor Rye provides rooms named after their views, such as the Deluxe Double Room with vistas over the river and marsh. Guests choose from room types including King Room, Small Double Room, and Family Room, each with a private bathroom and complimentary toiletries.

Dining

Breakfast at the Hope Anchor Hotel includes a full English cooked to order and a continental selection with cold meats, cheeses, yogurt, and fresh fruit salad, using locally sourced ingredients. The hotel holds the RAC Food Dining Award and offers special diet menus, including gluten-free options. In the evening, guests can use a voucher for money off at a nearby pub, while the hotel bar features a happy hour with free cheese and biscuits.

History & Character

Built around 1750, the Hope Anchor Rye once sheltered the Tenterden Gang, who used its secret passages for smuggling. A blue plaque commemorates the author Malcolm Saville, who stayed here and set scenes from his Lone Pine series at the hotel. The Hope Anchor Hotel retains its traditional snug bar with a log fire and offers board games and puzzles for guests.

Location & Local Access

The Hope Anchor Rye sits on a cobbled hill with views over Rye and the surrounding countryside, rated 9.4 by couples for its location. Within a 5-minute walk, guests reach Rye Castle Museum, the Heritage Centre, and local shops, galleries, and restaurants. Nearby attractions include Camber Castle and Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, and the hotel provides concierge service and luggage storage.

Family & Pet-Friendly Amenities

The Hope Anchor Hotel offers family rooms, a kid-friendly buffet, and babysitting/child services upon request. Board games and puzzles are available in the shared lounge, and the hotel allows pets with allergy-free rooms and outdoor picnic areas. Additional services include laundry, dry cleaning, and a sun terrace for relaxation.

• History: Mid-18th century smugglers' inn with secret passages
• Rooms: Individually styled rooms with four poster beds available
• Dining: RAC Food Dining Award for locally sourced breakfast
• Location: 9.4 couple rating, 5-minute walk to Rye Castle Museum
• Amenities: Happy hour with free cheese and biscuits, concierge service
• Family: Kid-friendly buffet, babysitting, board games