Twixt wooded hill and open sea lies the historic little town of Winchelsea, 

A former port of bustling life and fevered intense activity, 

A haven for thieves and smugglers too, for skullduggery and contraband, 

Today, a captivating town, for six hundred years at whose edge has sat the house entitled “The Strand.” 

Once famously sketched by Turner J.M. as a tribute, in praise both as a hymn and a psalm, 

A celebration, even then, of its enchanting appeal, of mullioned windows and crazy oak-beamed old-fashioned charm. 

Now, to its antiquity faithful, but with every modern comfort, well restored, 

Would Turner have its magic still more ardently adored. 

Lying nearby, not a stone’s throw away, is the South’s coastal centre of Rye, 

With entertainments a ‘plenty, such a plethora of culture in easy reach and so nigh. 

With arms outstretched ‘neath a smiling face, The Strand greets whole-hearted in every way, 

Invites passers-by not only to come, but to enjoy a unique experience and STAY. 

Mark Dury