Fairlight Lodge Hotel

Built in the 1720s by a French Count fleeing the Revolution, Fairlight Lodge Hotel bears a fascinating history. Nicknamed the Lantern House for its distinctive shape, the property once harboured smuggling activities and is said to contain a secret tunnel and two hidden rooms. Over the centuries, it has served as a doctor's residence, a dame school, officers' quarters during both world wars, and a country club before becoming a hotel.

The lodge holds particular significance in artistic circles. Many celebrated artists have stayed and worked here, drawn by the exceptional light of the Fairlight Hills. Holman Hunt, the renowned painter, taught one of the Martineau sons—into whose family the doctor's daughter married—and his work, now displayed at the Tate, depicts the view from the lodge's windows and the fireplace that still graces the bar today. Monet, Millet and Lear were also guests.

Whilst the house itself remains peaceful, the surrounding gardens are said to echo with the spirits of smugglers from centuries past.