Holiday rentals in Camber

The inviting East Sussex town of Camber, about 80 miles southeast of London, is known for its main beach, Camber Sands. While most beaches in this part of the country are characterised by their pebbly shoreline, Camber Sands boasts 11 kilometres of soft, golden sand, framed by undulating dunes that offer a protected habitat for a vast array of plant and animal life. It takes little effort to spot seals frolicking off the coast, or short-eared owls huddling in the dunes. People swim at Camber in the warmer months, and the beach is also a popular spot for kitesurfing and stand-up paddleboarding.

The area around Camber is rich in history, with plenty to explore, including several sites that are protected by the National Trust. This includes the 14th-century Bodiam Castle, Lamb House in Rye — which has been home to famous English authors — and Bateman’s, a 17th-century country house with a working watermill. Camber is also home to a collection of vineyards and wineries where you can sample the local offerings, as well as magnificent private gardens and several parks and reserves.

Summer is the most popular season in Camber, especially during school holidays when the beach weather is at its finest. This is also when the days are at their longest, leaving plenty of time for swimming and relaxing on the golden sand. Spring and autumn can get cool, though these seasons can be ideal for hiking and cycling or exploring the nearby nature reserves. Spring is also when wildflowers bloom and the many public and private gardens around the village are at their best. Winter can become very cold and rainy in Camber, though brisk walks on the beach when the tide is out can be an unexpectedly beautiful and bracing experience.

Camber Sands

The vast stretch of sandy beach is one of the most popular attractions in the region, and it’s not hard to see why. Beyond the immediate shoreline, you’ll find an expanse of sand dunes that have been featured in several notable films and TV programmes, and that support various plant and animal life. On a windy day, it’s fun to sit back and watch kitesurfers slicing through the waves.

Rye Harbour Nature Reserve

Less than a 20-minute drive from Camber, you’ll find the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve — a huge, protected expanse of beaches, lagoons, marshland, grassland, and reed beds. The park is home to all manner of birdlife, and there are four designated birdwatching spots. There are also more than 4,000 species of plants and animals in the reserve, 300 of which are classified as rare or endangered.

Camber Castle

Camber Castle is part of a series of forts commissioned by Henry VIII. Situated three kilometres inland, the castle was completed in 1544 and built from sandstone. While you’re free to admire the castle’s facade at any time, you’ll need to book a tour to view the interior.