Father’s day falls just after the Summer Solstice this year on June 21st, which means endless hours of sun, hooray! Here are some ideas of extra special ways you can treat Dad, and we’ve put a few room suggestions below which we can organise for you:

– To tootle along like the Wind in the Willows, treat him to a classic car during the stay, so you take jaunts around the Sussex countryside. We can also provide a picnic hamper with pates, cheeses, sourdough bread, cakes and an all important pack of cards.

– If Biggles is more his thing, get him a beginner’s flying lesson in a Cessna 172 – in 60 minutes he’ll be able to fly across the coast to Beachy Head. There is passenger space in the back (or you can wave from the ground!).

– He won’t be able to drive or fly when partaking in this one: a chauffeured wine-tasting tour of Sussex Vineyards including gourmet lunch.

Also this month, if you’re planning a slightly longer trip to The George in Rye, we’re shining a spotlight on Hastings. There’s more to it than a certain famous Battle, and the town is shedding off its run-down image to make a comeback as a brilliant and quirky destination. No offence Brighton, but we think Hastings is stealing a march on you.

Some highlights:
– St Leonards, which is up the hill from Hastings and being held up as the New Portobello. Norman Road is its mothership, and it’s packed full of vintage shops, antiques dens, cafes and Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant St Clements. After you’ve stuffed yourself, have an amble through the new St Leonard’s gardens. Find out more at www.thenormanroad.co.uk

– Heading down to the seafront and walking past the old fishing Net huts, then having the best fish and chips in Hastings at Maggie’s. You might have to queue to get in.

– Hastings is a magnet for artists and is teaming with art galleries (there are plans for the Jerwood to open a major new gallery on the seafront). On the first Thursday of every month, many of the galleries are opening late until at least 8pm, and you can follow an evening trail around the Old Town dipping in and out. If you love ceramics, check out the Leigh Gallery, while the WPS gallery brings together exhibitions with talks, music and events. Explore all the galleries on www.firstthursday.org.uk

Best wishes

The George in Rye