The first event we have to tell you about makes Worzel Gummidge look low key. If you’re heading to The George between 5th – 25th July, do not miss out on the Battle Scarecrow Festival which is set to be one of the most bizarre events of the summer. 60 dressed-up scarecrows are going to be positioned around the town (the site of the 1066 Battle) which you can find as you wander round; pick up a guide first from Tourist Information. Get ready for some surreal scenes, for example, yes that is an Amy Winehouse scarecrow in the picture! While you’re in Battle, we also recommend a stop-off at Yesterdays World, a recreation of historic streets of England, set in and around a 15th century manor house and accessed via a Victorian style shop on Battle High Street. A great trip for the kids.

Also esoteric in its own way is a fantastic tour of Winchelsea’s medieval wine cellars on Saturday 17th July, which is part of the UK Festival of Archeology. Due to a healthy wine trade with Gascony in the 13th century, Winchelsea has more medieval cellars than almost anywhere else in the country. Descend into the vaults and find out how they were built and what happened to them after they fell out of use. After your tour come back to The George and enjoy one of our English Wines. Especially good at the moment is Chapel Down’s Pinot Noir, which we’re serving in the bar. Very tasty with grilled chorizo as a nibble on the side! Here are the event details.

If you’d like to take to the open road while you’re staying with us, don’t forget our Classic Car package where you can swap your wheels for some glorious vintage models for a couple of days. If you want to nip about, go for the Alvis 1966 Convertible, or go stately in a Bentley SIII 1964. The package includes two nights accommodation, car hire, and a three course dinner one night, from £405 per person. Vroom up and find out more here.

Finally, after a magical production last year of Much Ado About Nothing, Lamb House in Rye, which was Henry James’ home and now a National Trust property, is throwing open the garden doors (pictured right) for an outdoor production of The Merchant of Venice. The Lamb Players include members of the RSC and the National Theatre in its cast, bringing the intrigue of Renaissance Venice to Rye. Between 6th-8th August you can watch matinees on Friday and Sunday, and evening performances Friday and Saturday. Tickets are £15 and available in advance from The George in Rye reception. Picnics are welcome in the grounds, or come back to the bar for some supper.

Best Wishes
Alex & Katie Clarke