White Vine House Hotel

24 High Street, Rye, East Sussex

Despite its Georgian frontage, the White Vine House dates back to medieval times, it still has a spiral staircase down to a 13th-century cellar. As such, everything from the French oak-panelled Elizabethan dining room to the wonderfully uneven floor of this seven-bedroomed listed building makes a stay here like a journey through Rye’s past. Not least because owner Javed Khan – who lives on-site – is so knowledgeable and passionate about
his home (and cooks a mean breakfast too). He was also wise enough to get the acclaimed Dev Biswal to do the ‘restaurant’ bit. And he does it with gusto. The food is essentially modern Indian but mixed with the best British produce – not in a way that swamps the meat or fish, but that complements it. So well cooked are the belly ribs of pork with fennel and sesame seeds and a pickle of apple and spices, you can virtually lick the meat off the bones. History, inspiring food, a pretty port town and a good breakfast; this is a thoroughly satisfying experience. Doubles from £130.