The American poet, novelist and critic Conrad Aiken, Pulitzer Prize winner, bought Jeake’s House in 1924 and the Men’s Club in 1928. He was visited here by many famous contemporaries including T.S. Eliot, E.F.Benson (then the occupant of Lamb House just round the corner), the artist Paul Nash (who is remembered by a plaque at the top of East Street), Malcolm Lowry, and Radclyffe Hall (then also living in Rye and creating great scandals). Aiken’s first floor study in what he referred to as his “deeply cherished home” overlooked “A mile of green Romney Marsh and the blue edge of the channel.” Aiken also wrote about Jeake’s “By how many noble or beautiful or delightful spirits had it been lighted and blessed! Lighted by love, lighted by laughter, the kind of light that never goes out.” Today the combined premises, together with neighbouring Elders House, have become the property of Jenny Hadfield who undertook the mammoth task of restoring derelict parts of the buildings. Also born in Rye was Jenny Hadfield’s father John Burke, novelist, historian, and winner of an Atlantic Award for Literature from the Rockefeller Foundation.

Jeake’s House provides outstanding accommodation in Rye. The 16th Century house plays host to the discerning guest who wants to recapture the feel of history while at the same time enjoying a high standard of modern comfort and relaxed hospitality. Rye accommodation is notoriously good and Jeake’s House certainly lives up to this reputation. Here, traditional hospitality meets every modern comfort. Award winning breakfasts including traditional English, vegetarian, fish, devilled kidneys and vegan options. Guests are guaranteed a space in our own private car park nearby. A permit is available for a small charge. You’ll be welcomed by your hosts, Jenny Hadfield and Richard Martin (and perhaps by the resident cats!). Jeake’s House This Rye accommodation is a 5 star award winning establishment, AA highly recommended. Jeake’s House is also the proud recipient of the Good Hotel Guide Cesar Award and Editors Choice. Les Routiers Best Bed and Breakfast in London and the South East. Sawday’s Old Favourite Award.

Rye itself is a bustling, jovial market town with richly contrasting examples of architecture over several centuries, and being on the famous cobbled Mermaid Street means that there is no more convenient place to stay than Jeakes House Guest Accommodation. Rye boasts a fine museum within the Norman keep of the Ypres Castle, an ancient church with an Elizabethan clock and the last stained glass window created by Edward Burne-Jones and William Morris, art galleries and potteries. Staying at Jeakes House accommodation in Rye also provides access to the surrounding countryside. There are many historical and beautiful villages and towns nearby. Jenny and Richard are always happy to advise on leisurely trips to historic castles, beautiful gardens and picturesque villages; and can recommend the best local restaurants and friendly inns.