A village green surrounded by half-timbered houses – some dating from the 15th century – and an ancient parish church sit at either end of the scenic village of Sedlescombe, which is surrounded by the leafy landscape of the High Weald National Landscape. Just north of the village, Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard will whet your appetite for Sussex exploration; venture south and the seafront, castle ruins and Old Town of Hastings offer something for all tastes, while 3.5 miles west, the abbey ruins and bustling town of Battle are a must-see. Some 12 miles east, Rye is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in England. Make time to see the castles at Bodiam (5 miles) and Herstmonceux (12 miles) too, and your local history lesson is complete.
After all that activity, this high-end holiday home, neighbouring the parish church and adjacent to public footpaths, is the perfect place in which to unwind. Gather all the family together for a laid-back break here – it has plenty of space to socialise. Step inside and the large lounge/diner has a choice of sofas, a gas-fired wood burner-effect stove and arched windows. Stealing the scene, though, is the galleried landing above; dramatic, it adds an air of intimacy to this large, light-filled space. Continue on, and the kitchen is a chef’s dream, Shaker-style cabinets, sleek counters and a central island complementing its rustic structural beams. Beyond, a utility room and cloakroom ensure home-from-home convenience. Head back through the lounge/diner and on the opposite side of the main entrance hall, there’s a second living space. It may be called the ‘snug’, but with two inviting sofas, a Smart TV and a fabulous open fire, this room allows several people to enjoy time away from the main holiday party. Doors give direct access to the terrace from here too. Ideal for guests who prefer ground-floor living, a double bedroom and a shower room complete the downstairs. Above, the two sides of the house are connected by that gorgeous galleried landing – keep an eye out for the sloping ceiling as you admire its wooden beams and floor! Off the main landing, there’s a bathroom and two bedrooms: the first is a double with views towards the church, and the other is a dreamy king-sized room. At the other end of the landing, there’s a second bathroom, a further double bedroom and a small double, the latter ideal if any guests would like their own bedroom. A second staircase leads from this end of the upper floor down to the kitchen and utility room.
Chocolate-box pretty, the garden here is a lovely extension to your living space. Take a seat on the large terrace and enjoy the scent and sight of borders filled with roses and other seasonal plants; there’s a raised pond and rustic arches too. There is private parking for three cars at this property.