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Sunnyside review: An artist holiday cottage in Camber Sands | UK | Travel

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Exterior of Sunnyside

The beachside cottage makes a statement with black painted weatherboard (Image: Camber Holiday Cottages)

Just a stone’s throw from the golden, rolling dunes of Camber Sands beach sits Sunnyside

Highlights

  • Three double bedrooms (sleeps 6)
  • Assortment of garden games and beach toys

Sunnyside Review

Just a stone’s throw from the golden, rolling dunes of Camber Sands beach sits Sunnyside, an artsy weatherboard cottage filled with retro treasures. The quaint property stands out among its peers, its cladding painted a deep midnight black. A sandy trail leads up to the front door, rooting you firmly by the sea.

Following a renovation, the cottage merges unique vintage pieces with stylish contemporary fixtures, to make for an artistic space that doesn’t scrimp home comforts.

Sleeping up to six people across three decently-sized double bedrooms, plus the option to bring your dog along, the cottage is the perfect escape for a family holiday or a celebratory trip with friends. The main living space can be expanded by opening up the double doors between the kitchen and living rooms.

During warmer months, welcome in some fresh air by opening up French doors which are dotted along the exterior wall of the property, leading out to the garden.

The outdoor space is perhaps one of the greatest assets of this home, with a huge grassy lawn perfect for garden games, which you can find stored in the summer house.

Living room at Sunnyside

Retro trinkets and art pieces add character to the living space (Image: Camber Holiday Cottages)

An array of seaside foliage and flowers line the perimeter of the lawn, and if you listen carefully, you can hear the waves lapping the shoreline of the nearby beach. There’s a built-in barbecue and a large table with enough space for the whole family to dine al fresco. The pièce de résistance of the garden, however, is the private sundeck, complete with wooden sun loungers and an outdoor mirrored wall perfect for snapping selfies.

Additional outdoor furniture, cushions and even beach toys are also located in the summer house for guests to enjoy on sunnier days. There is also an assortment of board games if you do find yourself spending a day cosied inside. A log burner is well placed in the living room for the colder months of the year, along with gas central heating and cosy Persian carpets.

As Sunnyside is a self-catering stay, it’s best to come prepared or order a supermarket delivery during your stay. If you have a car, there is a nearby supermarket in Rye.

For small or last-minute purchases, two corner shops are conveniently placed at the end of the street. And there is a local bus service which runs to and from the town of Rye, as well as plenty of local taxis which offer journeys between Camber and Rye, though are best booked in advance.

Two cars can be comfortably parked on the driveway directly outside of Sunnyside, while three may be squeezed in tightly depending on the size of the vehicles.

Dining room at Camber Holiday Cottages

The cottage comes with a fully equipped kitchen and dining space (Image: Camber Holiday Cottages)

The Accommodation

Rating: 4/5

From the outside, the seaside cottage doesn’t look any larger than its neighbours, but you may be surprised to discover just how spacious it is inside.

The front door opens up into a roomy living space, complete with cosy two cosy couches, 32″ smart tv and an array of unique art pieces and retro trinkets.

One of the most eye-catching furniture items in the room is a mini bar-esque cabinet replicating the bow of a small boat. And it’s not the only nautical feature dotted throughout the house.

Many of the decorative elements draw inspiration from the surrounding location, from the green fish-shaped vase in the kitchen to the porthole-style mirrors which line the wall of one of the double bedrooms. Eclectic artworks are another main component of this cottage’s character.

But the retro elements are accompanied by modern amenities, including two digital radios and Sonos speakers. The property dances the line between retro and modern, which can feel a little disjointed compared to other more consistently themed properties from Camber Holiday Cottages, such as .

The maritime theme is continued in the bedroom, with porthole mirrors lining the wall, a boat scene above the bed and nautical-stripe pillows

Step down from the living room into the kitchen, kitted out with a zinc-topped dining table and a good selection of cooking appliances, including an Espresso and Cappuccino machine. There is also a laundry cupboard which houses a washer and dryer.

Sunnyside is well-suited to groups, with French doors which can be opened to create one large living area, or closed to create more secluded spaces.

While there are three well-sized double bedrooms, our favourite was located down its own private corridor towards the rear of the property.

By day, the room is flooded with light from the double doors which open out onto the sun deck. But by night, with jet-black walls and blackout curtains, the room becomes a tranquil spot. However, it’s worth noting you might receive an early morning wake-up call from the local seagulls.

The maritime theme is continued in this room, with porthole mirrors lining the wall, a boat scene above the bed and nautical-stripe pillows. 

This room also has easy access to the largest bathroom in the property, complete with a spacious waterfall shower. An additional bathroom, with a shower, can be found on the opposite side of the property adjacent to a second bedroom.

The master bedroom, meanwhile, sits at the front of the property, offering plenty of storage space and, of course, some unique art pieces paying homage to the nearby sea.

Bedroom at Sunnyside

Nautical features include porthole-shaped mirrors in the bedroom (Image: Camber Holiday Cottages)

Location

How does Sunnyside compare to other UK holidays?

Rating: 5/5

Sunnyside is located on a street which leads directly to Camber Sands Beach car park, meaning you can reach the vast stretch of coastline in under five minutes from the front door.

Recently , the East Sussex stretch is a beautiful place to relax in tranquil surroundings or take a dip in the sea.

There are also a handful of well-placed ice cream shops, as well as a beachfront bar and café. And if you do happen to forget any seaside essentials, there is a selection of local shops selling everything from windbreakers to buckets and spades – but make sure to check the prices before buying as items can be expensive.

Beyond the beach, there is a small selection of pubs and cafés in the local area, but if you do fancy exploring further afield, the historic town of Rye is just eight minutes away by car. A bus service runs between Camber and Rye, with a bus stop located just a short walk from Sunnyside. It’s worth noting, however, that the bus service can be unpredictable at times, so pre-booking a taxi may be more reliable.

Ramblers may enjoy the three-and-a-half-mile walk between Camber and Rye, which runs from the beach into the town along the length of the river.

Once in Rye, there are plenty of local shops and historic sites to keep you busy through the day, and an array of quaint pubs, restaurants and wine bars once evening falls.

Getting to Sunnyside is relatively easy by car, but is also well-located for those who prefer to travel by train. The cottage can be reached by taking a train to Rye station and then a 15-minute bus ride or taxi into Camber. It took us less than two hours to get from London to Sunnyside by train and taxi.

Sunnyside garden camber

There is a huge garden area complete with private sun deck (Image: Camber Holiday Cottages)

Amenities

  • WiFi
  • Log burning stove
  • Fully equipped kitchen (incl dishwasher)
  • Shower
  • Barbecue

Value For Money

Rating: 4/5

Lead pricing starts from £1,180 for three nights, though prices can vary throughout the year. You can search for and book a stay on the Camber Holiday Cottages website.

Sun deck at Sunnyside

The private sun deck is a lovely addition to the garden (Image: Camber Holiday Cottages)

Final Verdict

The beachside location and spacious garden make this cottage perfect for a family getaway, and the owners have gone above and beyond to ensure even the smallest details are accounted for.

From garden games to outdoor cups and plates, Sunnyside has a number of complimentary extras you can enjoy during your stay.

Given the property size and price, a stay here makes more sense to split the cost between a group, but the size and layout of the home mean you won’t feel on top of each other.

If you’re looking for a slightly larger property, , which can also be booked with Camber Holiday Cottages.



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I visited UK pub known for its unusual inhabitants – 1 reason I won’t go back | Travel News | Travel

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I may not be much of a dog person, but I absolutely love cats, so when I heard of a pub famed for its feline-friendly furnishings, I knew I had to check it out. Last weekend I took a trip to Bristol to visit some friends and, of course, to see the famed pub The Bag O’ Nails where pints flow freely and cats wander through the bar.

When we rocked up on Saturday afternoon, I was a little worried as I had heard from multiple friends that the pub “absolutely stinks” of cat pee. While I don’t have a particularly strong sense of smell, my boyfriend is like a bloodhound – both in that he doesn’t like cats, and that his sense of smell is significantly keener than mine. I was relying on him to tell me if the pub stank or not.

As soon as we reached the pub – about a half an hour walk from Bristol Temple Meads – we could see how popular it was. Three people were perched on a small table outside, while the narrow bar inside was absolutely rammed with people.

It was so full of punters it took me a second to realise there were not one, not two, but three cats sitting calmly on the bar as the staff weaved around them pouring pints.

The prime seats – the ones in front of the bar, and by extension, directly in front of the cats in their cardboard boxes – were all taken, as were all the seats lining the walls of the cramped pub. Even trying to get to the bar was a challenge, let alone navigating back with two pints, so once we had our drinks we headed outside to perch on the street and debrief.

I hadn’t noticed any smell to the pub so I checked with my boyfriend. He let me know the pub definitely had a little funk to it – but nothing so bad that he couldn’t be in the room. The best part about standing outside was getting to read all the signs on the door, which strictly ban children under 14 (including babies), ‘idiot pub crawls’, dogs and mice from entering the pub.

Although the service was fabulous, the feline occupants adorable and the pub was fun, there is one good reason I won’t be returning to Bag O’ Nails – it simply was too popular for my liking.

Maybe it’s because I visited on a Saturday afternoon, but the pub was simply too cramped to be able to properly sit and enjoy the cats. I did get a couple of chin scratches while I was waiting for my drinks, but due to the number of patrons in the bar it felt too overwhelming to stay for more than one drink.

Overall, Bag O’ Nails is a great pub, the cats are well loved and happy and the prices are reasonable – it’s well worth a visit, but maybe mid-week is better.



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The pretty 2.5-mile spring walk in pretty UK hamlet with very famous railway bridge | Travel News | Travel

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This pretty walk is one of the best in the UK and as the weather gets warmer, it’s one you should definitely add to your list for summer. The Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail offers an unforgettable experience for those who take the time to explore it.

Located in the Scottish Highlands, you’ll have the chance to see incredible landscapes while taking the route. You can even stop for a quick snap of the iconic viaduct or to see the famous railway bridge from the Harry Potter films. If the weather is in your favour and you’ve got the right footwear, this one to two hour walk will lead you through some of the most stunning scenery in the UK.

While on the 2.5-mile trail, you’ll have incredible views of Loch Shiel, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers. 

Along the way, you’ll also pass the Glenfinnan Monument, erected in 1815.

This combination of natural beauty and rich history makes the Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail a must-do for anyone looking to explore the best of Scotland’s landscapes.

Fort William is located just 17 miles to the south of Glenfinnan, where you’ll find accommodation, restaurants and more outdoor activities. It’s an ideal place to stay if you’re hoping to visit the area for a short break. 

The easiest way to reach Glenfinnan is by taking the train from Glasgow or Edinburgh to Fort William, followed by a short bus or car ride to the viaduct. 

One person on Tripadvisor who walked the route said: “Fabulous views of the viaduct and the monument. Also managed to catch the steam train going across. Time it right! Great day out! Definitely a must if you’re in the area.”

Another penned: “A lovely place to see a wonderful viaduct. There is a viewpoint path and one just outside that goes up and close. It’s glorious in person and definitely brings a sense of nostalgia.

“We went for the up and close route which was a nice walk down a path near the visitor centre/cafe. The viewpoint for us seemed a little far away and only beneficial if you have a professional camera.”

If you’re looking for a weekend away in the UK, Glenfinnan could be the perfect place for you to enjoy a scenic yet adventurous break.



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The beautiful European country where it’s 14p for a pint of milk | Travel News | Travel

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A British traveller has revealed the astonishingly low cost of groceries in Romania, where everyday essentials such as milk, fruit and even alcohol come at a fraction of UK prices. But beyond its affordability, Romania also boasts breathtaking landscapes, historic cities, and vibrant culture that make it a fantastic destination for travellers.

TikToker @Nicoletravelandlife recently shared her shopping experience in a Romanian supermarket, Mega Image, highlighting just how affordable food and drink can be. “Just come to Romania, and it’s apparently very cheap here. So we’ve come to the supermarket, gonna grab a basket, and I’ll let you know how cheap it is,” she said in her viral video.

As she explored the store, Nicole was particularly surprised by the price of a pint of milk – just 14p. In the UK a pint of milk will set you back around 85p.

“Bargain,” she said. She then went on to point out other remarkably low prices, including a whole chicken for £1.50, fresh broccoli for 7p and an avocado for just 2p.

She also picked up a large bottle of Disaronno for £9 and a bottle of fresh orange juice for 60p, commenting on how much cheaper these items were compared to UK supermarkets.

Nicole was also intrigued by some of the unique features of Romanian supermarkets, such as cereal being packaged in bags rather than traditional boxes.

She admired the way fruit and vegetables were displayed and noted that Romania imports many of its goods but still manages to keep prices incredibly low.

At the checkout, she was shocked to find that the total cost of over 30 items came to just £20, a fraction of what a similar shop would cost in the UK. “The real truth of how much it costs,” she said, showing off her impressive haul.

Beyond the affordability, Romania offers stunning travel experiences. The country is home to medieval castles, picturesque mountains, and charming old towns, making it a dream destination for budget travellers.

The capital, Bucharest, is a mix of grand historical buildings and modern energy. Visitors can explore the grand Palace of Parliament, one of the largest buildings in the world, or stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town, filled with cafés, restaurants, and nightlife.

For history lovers, Transylvania is a must-visit. The Bran Castle, often linked to the Dracula legend, is a fascinating site perched on a dramatic hilltop. Nearby, the city of Brașov offers cobblestone streets, colourful baroque buildings, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Carpathian Mountains.

Nature enthusiasts will be drawn to Sibiu and the Transfagarasan Highway, often called “the most beautiful road in the world,” winding through the mountains with stunning scenery at every turn.

Romania is also home to the Danube Delta, a paradise for wildlife lovers with its vast wetlands and diverse bird species.

With its low cost of living, rich history, and natural beauty, Romania is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re looking for a cheap yet exciting city break, an adventure in the mountains, or simply a place where your money goes further, this Eastern European gem is worth considering.

And with a pint of milk at just 14p, you’ll have plenty left in your budget to explore everything Romania has to offer.





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