Given we’re always going on about how Rye is very Dickensian at Christmas, it’s about time that we backed up our claims! A critically acclaimed  theatrical production of Nicholas Nickleby is on at Hastings’ Stables Theatre until mid-January. The play was famously produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1980 and was recently revived in Chichester and the West End.  Think Oliver but better, in our opinion.  There are all the familiar Dickens devices: a pennyless orphan, villains, evil school masters, and thrilling escapes around England. Nicholas Nickleby plays in two parts on alternate days, so come stay at The George in Rye and immerse yourself in the extravaganza. Remember that we offer a Midweek break (stay two nights and you receive dinner for free).

We’ve had some lovely walks recently at the Bedgebury National Pinetum and most definitely recommend you take a look if you’re staying with us for a couple of days. It’s a whopping 350 acres managed by the Forestry Commission, where you can wander or cycle to your hearts content, under the canopy of the world’s greatest collection of conifers (which manage to stay looking lively and Narnia-like even in dreary January). Admittedly the picture on the right is hoping for some wish fulfillment for a white Christmas. It’s not going to happen, is it, but still, a lovely photo. See how to get there here.

Finally, a couple of ideas on last-minute Christmas presents. Many people who stay with us comment on our hot water bottles, lavender heart pillow, and more recently,  knitted chickens that keep your boiled eggs warm at breakfast. In the last year we must have had about 200 people asking. So, just to let you know, we source them from a textile designer called Catherine Tough. This is her website where you can buy some of those little bits and bobs we have in the rooms.  And if you want to offer someone a wow present, maybe someone who needs a break, we are bringing back our Christmas gift vouchers. You can get these in any denomination starting at £25 – just email us the recipient,  address and value, and we’ll wrap the voucher up nicely and post it for you – see more here.

Which leaves us only to say have very Merry Christmas and wonderful New Year,

Alex and Katie Clarke and all the team at The George in Rye