Sussex has it all. Whether you want history, great local produce, stellar walks with incredible views, or the seaside and a bit of pier culture. So why would you want to go on holiday anywhere else? And if all that sounds pretty tempting to you, what about grabbing a bag and heading somewhere secluded, stunning, and away from it all? But somewhere still near enough to interesting places to explore if you’re staying a bit longer than a weekend.
Cue a rural retreat
Not far from Henfield and the South Downs, you’ll find a sleepy little lane. It’s single track and very beautiful with overhanging cow parsley and it takes you to the perfect little spot for an idyllic holiday. Part of the Sussex Rural Events Company, here you’ll find two shepherds huts and a unique off-grid lodge, each one set in its own little space.
But what will strike you first as you arrive, is both the total tranquillity of this place and the wildlife. There are kingfishers, dragonflies and herons which you may spot lakeside in amongst the irises. And at night of course there are owls and foxes, and the occasional deer. And there is plenty of space to run around for the children as well as a fire pit to sit around under the stars, and a huge outdoor breakfast table.
There are also meadows and shady spots under large old trees. In short, it’s the sort of space you just want to come and be. To sip on a cup of coffee in the early morning sunshine, or sip on a glass of wine on the steps of your shepherds hut late at night.
Exploring the area
OK, so you might want to just stock up on supplies, and do nothing but enjoy this quiet little corner of Sussex. But if you want to explore, there’s plenty to do.
Local vineyards
If you have an interest in wine, there are a number of notable local vineyards. Wolstonbury Vineyard at nearby Hurstpierpoint offers tours and tastings and they also have a stunning collection of art by local artists. Wiston Estate, just outside Steyning, also offers tours and tastings, and has its Chalk restaurant and a number of other experiences such as foraging and open days for the Wiston House gardens. Kinsbrook Vineyard has tables overlooking the vines as well as a fabulous new restaurant and Albourne Estate offers tours, tastings and picnics! All enough to keep the wine lovers happy.
Walks and trails
Just a short distance from the South Downs, this retreat is a walker’s or cyclist’s heaven. The South Downs Way runs along the ridge of the Downs and the closest section takes you via Devil’s Dyke and Saddlescombe in one direction or to Bramber if you head the other way. Other trails nearby include Monarch’s Way, the Downs Link and the Sussex Border Path.
Local history
History is everywhere in Sussex, and you’ll find the ruins of a Medieval castle at Bramber, and the historic town of Steyning just a short distance away. From there, head west a bit further for the magnificent Amberley and Arundel castles.
Gardens
Within walking distance, you’ll also find the Sussex Prairie Gardens where they host a whole range of workshops and fairs throughout the year. They also have an artist in residence and as the name suggests, the most stunning gardens.
The Sussex seaside
The sea is just the other side of the Downs, and there you can choose from cosmopolitan Brighton, bohemian Shoreham or cultural Worthing. You’ll also find museums, theatres, markets, piers, seafront walks and watersports.
Nearby towns
Just a short drive away, Henfield and Hurstpierpoint are both bustling little towns with plenty on offer. Henfield has a museum and various local walks, and Hurstpierpoint has a family farm and a brewery. Both have lots of little boutiques and cafés.
Meet the owl and the kingfisher
The two shepherds huts at this retreat are named The Owl and The Kingfisher. They are simply furnished but with plenty of space and lots of attention to the finishing touches. They are charming and each sits in the shade of its own tree. One sleeps two and the other sleeps four.
The Robin’s Nest is set back on the other side of a stream and can sleep up to six. It’s got a little sitting room, beautiful floral fabrics, a private BBQ, and a sense of complete calm.
If you’d like more information about this Sussex rural retreat, visit: Sussex Rural Events Company
To book, call: 07767 621 376
