Beautiful interior-designed cottage near antiques-haven Petworth, with footpaths into the South Downs National Park (sleeps 6)
Space & setting.
*Brand new*
Awash with natural colours, soft linens and exquisite vintage finds, it’s hard to believe this 19thC cottage was once derelict and unloved; the kitchen a sanctuary for wild hedgehogs while chickens ruled the outbuildings. Nowadays, the honey-stone cottage/barn conversion exudes calm and authenticity, thanks to its interior-designer owner’s artful eye for blending the old with the new. Latch doors lead through a warren of rooms, from sleek walk-in showers nestled next to exposed brickwork to a modern monochrome kitchen framed by beautiful old beams–you’ll want the binoculars handy while you wait for the kettle to boil, as wagtails and blue tits flit past the eye-level windows. Three cosy-luxe bedrooms sleep 6 in the cottage section (one has its own wood-burner), while the underfloor-heated barn provides an inviting space for supper or hunkering down by the fire with a family board game.
Bring bikes, boots, dogs–or all 3! Squirrelled away at the end of a sleepy no-through lane lined with wild hedgerows and sweet chestnuts, this is a perfect country escape. Bridleways meander from the door, through enchanting woodland, past fallow deer, then out onto the chalky hills of the South Downs National Park. The market town of Petworth, with its posse of antiques shops, is 10 minutes away, as is a local vineyard where you can pick up a bottle of award-winning sparkling wine for drinks in the garden here, drenched in sunset’s golden glow.
Getting here: drive, or train to Haslemere then taxi (25 mins)
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Sustainability.
“Most furniture is vintage, antique or second-hand. The whole house has been painted in Atelier Ellis paint, a Bath-based artisan paint company which uses non-toxic natural ingredients. Eco-friendly toiletries and cleaning products. No pesticides used in the garden; we are cultivating a large ‘bug hotel’ in the paddock. We have also seeded in a wildflower meadow which we hope will flower next year.”
Surrounds.
- You’re in the heart of South Downs National Park, criss-crossed by footpaths. Tessa will point you on glorious walks through its river valleys, ancient woodlands and chalk downs.
- Drive 10 mins or walk to an excellent gastropub for lunch: The Horse Guard’s Inn at Tillington and The Noah’s Ark in Lurgashall are both 45 mins’ walk away – and dog friendly. Book a table in advance if you plan to dine.
- Go antiques-hunting in pretty Petworth, an absolute haven for second-hand treasures with stories to tell, then stop for a hot drink and sweet treat at The Hungry Guest Deli, where you can also stock up on some scrumptious locally-made jams.
- Local vineyard Roebuck Estates is also walkable from the cottage – perfect for tours and tastings. Check out its seasonal events too: we like the sound of ‘sunset sipping’ Fridays, when there’s also a food truck.
- The peaceful Ramster Gardens in Chiddingfold are particularly stunning in spring, a riot of rhododendrons and azaleas. Have lunch in their cafe; the coronation chicken sandwich is the best.
- Art-lovers will adore Petworth House, a beautiful National Trust property that houses an astounding collection of art, including some by Turner. There’s also a vast deer park where you can walk for free (with dogs on leads).
- Nearby Cowdray Estate is famous for its polo matches, but it’s also a beautiful place to hang out in summer. Wander the walled garden, order wood-fired pizza and cold beers and spread out a picnic rug under the trees for sunset.
- The Maker’s Barn on the outskirts of Petworth is stacked with artisan crafts from local makers. Find anything from ceramics, baskets and art, to walking sticks, bird boxes, local honey and pretty much anything else you can think of.
- Sports enthusiasts will know about Goodwood for its various racing festivals (both horse and car), while dog owners will be tempted by the Goodwoof Festival.
- Drive to West Wittering’s golden sweep of sand (45 mins) – for whatever water sport you fancy, long dog walks and dunes for the kids to scoot up and down.
Specifics.
- Rural cottage / barn conversion at the end of a quiet country lane
- Underfloor heating downstairs
- 3 bedrooms: 1 super-king on the ground floor with wood-burner; 1 king + 1 twin upstairs
- 2 bathrooms: ground-floor shower room (ensuite to master) + upstairs bathroom with tub and walk-in shower; eco-friendly toiletries provided
- Fully equipped kitchen including fridge, freezer, oven, induction hob, dishwasher, microwave and cafetière; basic supplies provided
- Living/dining area with seating for 6 and a wood-burner (firelighters and logs provided)
- Smart TV, board games, books, binoculars and bird guide
- Garden with seating and BBQ
- Children aged 5+ welcome or babes in arms (no crawlers)
- Dog-friendly! Up to 2 dogs welcome (see FAQs)
- The owner is available by phone should you need anything
- Breakfast available on request
- Drive to local village shop, farm shops and pubs (5-10 mins) or walk to pubs (45-60 mins)
- Booking conditions: check in on Fri for a 3-night stay, or Monday for a 4-night stay
- Remember to pack: wellies/walking boots and dog bed/towel
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30% deposit, with the balance due 8 weeks prior to stay.
Cancellations permitted 8+ weeks prior to stay, with deposit refunded minus a £30 processing fee.
No refunds if booking cancelled within 8 weeks of stay.
FAQs.
Yes, up to 2 dogs are allowed (£25 each per stay). Please keep them downstairs only and off furniture. Dog bowls and treats are provided. The back garden is fenced and totally secure for any dog larger than a Jack Russell.
In 4.30pm / Out 10.30am