Springles Cottage sits in the most idyllic rural location – surrounded by beautiful gardens and rolling countryside. But there is nothing traditionally ‘cottagey’ about this perfect country escape. When the owners embarked on the renovation of what was once a farm store, they were determined to make it both sustainable and beautiful, and they have more than succeeded on both counts. Springles manages to be both timeless and modern, with an interior that is cosy, comfortable, and flooded with light.

The downstairs is open plan, but cleverly divided into kitchen, breakfast room, lounge and a dining area – at the heart of which is a wonderful spiral staircase painted in fern green. Central to the lounge area is a modern woodburner that keeps the space cosy at all times of the year.

Ground Floor

Living Space: An open plan space comprised of kitchen, breakfast room, dining area and lounge. A log burner at the centre of the space keeps it cosy. There is a large TV with Sky channels, a Sonos sound system, and a cupboard full of games and activities. Flooded with natural light thanks to huge windows onto the garden. Spiral staircase leading up to the Master bedroom.

Double Bedroom: Double bed, wardrobe, shelves and hanging space.

Shower room and Utility combined: with washing machine and tumble dryer.

Bathroom

Barcombe is a pretty Sussex village, just 5 miles north of more famous Lewes – and brilliantly placed for Brighton, Glyndbourne, the stunning beaches of the South Coast and the South Downs Way. There is a wealth of things to do just a short drive away or plenty of walks and cycling routes available from the door.

Trains from London Victoria take around an hour to Lewes or Cooksbridge. Taxis are available at Lewes station, or hosts are happy to pick up if prearranged.

The garden at Springles Cottage looks out over fields and rolling countryside, towards the South Downs.

The kitchen at Springles Cottage is well equipped for anyone who likes to cook – and you need never visit a supermarket thanks to the Holmansbridge Farm Shop, just outside Barcombe. Alternatively Denniker Farm Shop or Village Stores are in nearby Fletchling. The owner is also able to organise home cooked meals or even cater for a special dinner party, by prior arrangement. Help yourself to the vegetables and herb garden for the freshest produce during your stay.

This area is also stuffed with wonderful Sussex country pubs. The village pub is called the Royal Oak, is good for a swift pint at the end of a walk. They have an artisan pizza van there most Mondays, as well as pop-up restaurants throughout the summer. The Griffin Inn at Fletching has a modern British menu, and stunning views from its garden – great for summer evening rosé. The Bull at Ditchling is a fun blend of traditional and modern, and offers ‘grazing food’ as well as traditional Sunday roasts. The Jolly Sportsman in East Chiltington can be reached on foot in about an hour across fields and little streams; the food never disappoints and they cater well for children, too.

Lewes is a bit of a foodie mecca, thanks to the Farmers Market, the Flint Owl bakery (often named as one of the UK’s best bakeries), independent cafes such as Needlemaker’s Café, or Fork if you’re looking for something slightly smarter.