The Relais Cooden Beach – A British Seaside Resort Redefined

The Relais Cooden Beach begins a transformation this summer into a stylish retreat on the East Sussex coast under the vision of international hotelier, Grace Leo who is redefining the concept of an English seaside resort. With an enviable position on its own private beach, the resort offers uninterrupted views across the English Channel and will be a restorative retreat for all seasons. The phased renovation of the 1930s property into a chic coastal hideaway, will be revealed in stages with exciting new details added throughout the summer and full completion expected by September 2022.

“When I first set eyes on Cooden Beach I was captivated by the panoramic sea views and the prime beachfront location of the hotel. I instantly recognized the potential to transform this much-loved property into a new style of seaside retreat, drawing inspiration from my international resort experience to create a lifestyle destination in an undiscovered location on the East Sussex coastline – the very essence of Relais Retreats. Comments Grace Leo. 

I am creating a place for our guests to relax and feel at home, to enjoy a fun and stylish beach club atmosphere that’s usually associated with Southern Europe – somewhere people will come for a weekend or an entire vacation.”

Paris based designer, Pascal Allaman, has drawn inspirations from elegant coastal resorts such as Nantucket and Montauk on the American East Coast as well as the French seaside town of Deauville. The inspiring views of the everchanging seascapes have been captured in a bespoke colour named ‘English Channel Blue’ in contrast to a warmer scheme in shades of ‘Persimmon’ to create an inviting blend of coastal breeziness and sun-kissed tones, whilst classic stripes establish a holiday vibe that is unmistakably seaside. 

All 45 rooms will be entirely refurbished including five new Veranda Suites with private terraces. Striking carpets set the mood for a comfortable and chic bedroom with wainscot-panelled headboards and mid-century style daybeds. A cosy wrap-around fireplace lounge with a central open fire against a book-lined wall will become a focal point and a natural extension of the new bar, designed to create a convivial atmosphere with comfortable seating around an oversized natural wood counter for a glass of wine or a light bite.  Views of the sea and the hotel’s private beach are visible from every angle.

The beachfront restaurant that spills out onto the expansive terrace for Al Fresco dining during the warmer months, will be renamed ‘The Rally’ in honour of the sporting history of the De La Warr family, who put the location on the map as the home of British Motorsports. Celebrating locally sourced produce, the menu will feature freshly caught fish and seafood, supplied by local fisherman and will change according to the ‘catch of the day’. 

During the height of summer, guests of the hotel can enjoy the Beach Club with stylish sun loungers and parasols, with attentive waiters serving drinks and refreshments throughout the day. The private lawn in front of the hotel, is the perfect place to laze in a vintage striped deck chair or enjoy movies under the stars in the evening. 

Once the private home of the influential De La Warr family, who entertained members of the royal family, including the young Queen Elizabeth II, at their beachside home, their legacy includes sport and culture as well as a convenient train station, right next door to bring guests directly in from London. 

Rooms at The Relais Cooden Beach start from £265 for a double room, including bed and breakfast.