Utterly delightful thatched cottage in a fairytale setting with bluebell woods and countryside walks, just an easy train ride from London (sleeps 8-10)
Space & setting.
Tucked deep in the folds of the Sussex countryside, this gorgeous 17thC cottage is a whimsical dream for friends and families to gather, feast and walk. With a storybook setting, thatched roof, exposed brick walls and creaky floors (plus Mrs Tittlemouse sweeping outside the front door), it could have been plucked straight from the pages of a Beatrix Potter story. Bluebell woodland and wildflower gardens add to the fairytale charm; encourage kids to host a teddy bears’ picnic in the orchard while you catch 40 winks in the sunshine.
Inside, it’s all low-slung beams, crackling fires and vintage finds; 4 bedrooms and a big country-style kitchen made for unhurried breakfasts and pots of tea. Later, gather out on the patio for long lunches and dinners that roll into the small hours (not a neighbour in earshot). There’s even a sweet little summer hut with its own cosy bedroom – a perfect nook for grandparents, visiting friends or older kids craving a little space. Countryside walks wind out from your doorstep; nearby, explore Wakehurst’s wild botanic gardens (run by Kew), ride a heritage steam train or taste English fizz at local vineyards. Pure enchantment, all round.
Getting here: drive, or train / Gatwick Express to Three Bridges then taxi (10 mins)
Prior to Effie and husband Phiz taking ownership, the cottage had been rented out for many years before being abandoned and left empty. Five years ago, they employed the help of local craftsmen to bring it back to life, including the same thatcher who had repaired the roof 20 years ago.
They love
“Walking straight from the doorstep into the beautiful countryside, then coming home to light the fire.”
We love
The fact that wild deer often wander through the garden.
You may not love
A 3-night min stay. Some low beams. Four of the bedrooms share 1 bathroom and the hut bedroom is only usable May-Oct. An on-site pond (small children to be supervised at all times). The attic bedroom is accessed by steep, narrow stairs. No parties.
Sustainability.
Situated within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the cottage and forestry work support on-site conservation and biodiversity projects.
Surrounds.
- Just 5 minutes away, the wild and wonderful botanic garden at Wakehurst (run by Kew) is a magical place to wander through ancient woodlands, secret valleys, meadows buzzing with bees and the world-famous Millennium Seed Bank, hidden beneath the landscape.
- Tulleys Farm is a quirky, agri-entertainment hub with something for everyone. Explore immersive escape rooms and rustic tearooms, or visit for seasonal delights like the technicolour Tulip Fest, Sunflower and Pumpkin Fields, or the spookily brilliant Shocktober Fest. In summer, catch a film under the stars at their drive-in cinema.
- Step back in time on the Bluebell Railway, a heritage steam train that chugs through the Sussex countryside. With vintage carriages, charming stations, and lovely views, it’s a nostalgic treat for all ages — especially little train-lovers.
- The area is rich in historic houses and gardens. Explore the arts & crafts interiors of Standen House, the romantic ruins and roses at Nymans or picnic amongst the beautifully landscaped grounds of Borde Hill.
- Sip award-winning English wines among the vines at the picturesque Bolney Wine Estate vineyard. Book a tour and tasting and have lunch at their Eighteen Acre Café, while soaking up the beauty of the surrounding hills.
Details.
- Detached thatched cottage on a private estate
- Sleeps 10 guests in summer (May-October) using the adjacent bedroom hut. 8 guests in winter (November-end April)
- 5 bedrooms: 3 doubles, 1 queen + 1 twin (1 of the doubles is in the bedroom hut)
- 2 bathrooms: main bathroom with shower and bath + shower bathroom in the hut
- Underfloor heating downstairs
- Fully equipped kitchen/diner including fridge, freezer, oven, microwave and coffee machine; basic supplies provided
- Living room warmed by a large fireplace
- Books, boardgames and binoculars
- Large garden with patio, dining area and BBQ
- Travel cot and high chair available
- 1 dog welcome (see FAQ); not on the furniture please and note the garden is not fenced
- The owners are available by phone should you need anything
- Bikes available to hire locally
- Drive to supermarkets, farm shop and pubs (10 mins)
- Booking conditions: a 3-night minimum stay, check in on Mon/ Weds/ Fri. Shorter stays not considered. 7-night minimum stay over Christmas & New Year
- Closed dates: November – early April, excluding Christmas & New Year
- Remember to pack: wellies and firelighters
Book your stay.
*10% Discount*
Applies to stays of 7 nights or more
Excludes Christmas & New Year.
Surprise gift on arrival when you book with Kip!
50% deposit, with the balance due 4 weeks prior to stay. All payments are non-refundable.
A refundable £200 security deposit is payable directly to the owner.
FAQs.
8 – 10 depending on the season. In the summer months (May – Oct) it sleeps up to 10 but in April, Christmas & New Year it sleeps 8. This is because the 5th bedroom is in a separate little hut, not suitable for use in winter.
10 mins’ drive.
Yes; there is a charge of £35 per dog per stay. Please note that Coldharbour is not suitable for all dogs as the garden is not enclosed and there are deer and other wild life that frequently visit the garden and surrounding area. If your dog like to stray or chase deer, this won’t suit you.
In: 4pm / out: 10am
I’m afraid not; for liability reasons, 10 guests is the max.
Unfortunately not; the turnaround costs are so high for a property like this that there’s a 3-night minimum stay.
Still have a question?
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