Ridge Cottage, Streat

About this property

Looking straight to the Victoria 'V' on the South Downs near Lewes this is a traditional country cottage for six - very relaxing

If you are looking for the style, charm and comforts of a traditional country cottage in the heart of the Downs for a perfect relaxed break, then Ridge Cottage has to be high on the list. Purchased as a home from home and enjoyed by the owners as their retreat from the bustle of the city, you too will quickly appreciate the tranquility of the setting here and the glorious walks from the doorstep.

Just two miles from Plumpton Races and four miles from the market town of Lewes, this delightful country cottage will comfortably sleep six guests in four bedrooms. The bedrooms enjoy lovely views with the principal bedroom fitted with a king sized bed looking due south to the Downs. The second bedroom is fitted with a standard double bed with a wash hand basin, while the two single rooms have standard single beds. Upstairs there is also one family bathroom, with a bath and shower fitted above.

The living space faces south and allows you to just absorb the splendour of the South Downs. It's a lovely bright room that combines nicely with the dining area to give a large overall space. The kitchen is traditional but well equipped and in keeping with the style of the cottage.There is also a large utility room and a downstairs cloakroom.

Step outside and there are wonderful private grounds that wrap around the cottage. A private courtyard garden to the front, a more formal lawn to the side and then a terrace and paddock that face the Downs looking straight to the Victoria 'V' planted in 1887 in celebration of Queen Victoria's Jubilee.

Streat and beyond

Streat usually indicates a Roman Road, and this tiny hamlet of Streat is built on the Sussex Greensand Way. Set in an elevated position it is just a couple of miles north of the South Downs and also two miles from Plumpton, well known for both its college and racecourse.

Streat is less than three miles east of the picturesque village of Ditchling. Ditchling has remained unspoilt over the centuries and has many examples of period Tudor buildings. Wings Place is a fine Tudor building once known as "Anne of Cleves House". The village has kept the period tradition well and offers tea rooms and a village deli, just what you expect in a traditional village setting.

Ditchling Beacon, a major landmark along the Downs is a short but testing climb starting from the foot of Underhill Lane and offers an interesting circular walk that is manageable for keen walkers from Ridge Cottage. At 248 metres (814 feet) it is the third highest point along the South Downs and offers fantastic views both along the Downs and north across the Sussex Weald. The South Downs Way passes through the Beacon giving you the opportunity to walk both east and west along this national trail virtually from your doorstep.

Head south over Ditchling Beacon and the Downs gradually slope away towards Brighton. It is a vibrant city with much to offer. It is lively and bustling with a lot of culture and many say it is quite unique. One of its most famous landmarks is the Royal Pavilion the spectacular seaside palace of the Prince Regent, (George IV) and the Regency heritage of this period is much in evidence in the city. You can read about the palace on our Places to visit pages for East Sussex.

Lewes the county town of East Sussex lies four miles south east of Streat. Its castle overlooks the town and is open to visitors, as is the Barbican Museum opposite. In such an historic town there is much to see. Lewes is famous for its bonfire celebrations and each year these are attended by thousands of visitors. Visiting on the first Saturday of the month is recommended when a thriving Farmers' Market takes place with lots of delicious fare on offer.

Glyndebourne the world famous and world class opera house is a further three miles east from Lewes. Glyndebourne restarted and reinvigorated opera in England and today it offers unique presentations in the Sussex countryside attracting world leading performers. We provide a link into Glyndebourne under our “What’s On in Sussex” heading should you want more information.

Places to visit

Charleston

Firle Place

Lewes Castle

What's on

Brighton Festival — May

Glyndebourne — July

Lewes Bonfire Societies — November

Local shop — 2 miles Ditchling

Nearest supermarket — 4 miles Lewes

Nearest restaurant — 4 miles Lewes

Mainline rail service at Plumpton for services to Gatwick Airport, London Victoria and Lewes

Nearest airport — Gatwick Airport 20 miles