Hunters Cottage, Alciston

About this property

A characterful Grade II listed cottage with an extensive garden and direct access on to the South Downs. Hunters Cottage is in an excellent location for walkers and families alike.

This attached former farmworkers' cottage, which has an enviable position within the South Downs National Park, provides excellent accomodation having been tastefully and comfortably furnished. It provides an ideal base from which to explore this popular part of Sussex with pathways from the garden leading to the rolling hills of the Downs beyond and easy access to a multitude of attractions in the area.

The warm and welcoming lounge area has an impressive inglenook fireplace as its main feature with a comfortable sofa and armchairs providing a relaxing area to unwind in after exploring the wonderful surroundings. Off the hallway is a ground floor bathroom with a shower cubicle, WC and basin. The fully equipped kitchen and dining area is set to the back of the cottage with views over the garden to the Downs beyond. There is a Rayburn to please those country chefs but also a regular oven for those not used to the range!

On the first floor is the principal bedroom with a queen size double bed and fitted wardrobe space. The family bathroom with full bath and separate shower cubicle is also on this floor. Accessed by a small staircase door, the single bedroom has restricted head height but is a perfect hideaway for a child. On the top floor you will find the twin bedroom, with 2 single beds, and lovely views over to the countryside in front of the cottage.

The rear garden area of Hunters Cottage is idyllic with a variety of seating areas to enjoy the sun throughout the day whilst enjoying the stunning scenary beyond.

Alciston and beyond

Alciston is perfectly positioned, nestled within the South Downs National Park. The village itself was mentioned in the Doomsday Book as 'Aelfsige' and the 14th-century parish church is built of chalk from the nearby South Downs. There is a large medieval tithe barn in the village which is 170 feet long and has the accolade of being the largest in Sussex!

The nearby village of Alfriston is surrounded by the Wealden South Downs and the South Downs Way passes through the centre of this historical village. Around the village, visitors can enjoy the famous St Andrews church and Alfriston Clergy House, a National Trust property, which offers delightful gardens and lovely views across the Downs. The village hosts many events throughout the year including the Alfriston festival and Farmers markets.

Lewes with its Castle and antique shops is just 7 miles away. Nestled amongst the beautiful South Downs, this impressive county town is steeped in history and heritage with a thriving cultural scene. Climb to the top of the 1000 year old Norman castle to behold the panoramic views across Sussex and explore the Museum of Sussex Archaeology next door which houses local collections from the Stone Age to medieval times. Shopping in Lewes is also a pleasure - browse the antique shops of the Cliffe, visit the Farmers market on the first Saturday every month to pick up some delicious local produce or just relax and watch the world go by in one of the many local tearooms.

Other attractions close by for your enjoyment include Glyndbourne, with internationally renowned concerts and plays performed throughout the year, and Firle Place which is an outstanding privately owned country house in Sussex that dates from the time of Henry viii. The house, gardens and notable collection of works of art and porcelain are of national importance and are well worth viewing.

Award winning Drusillas Park is less than two miles from Hunters Cottage. A great family day out that includes a small zoo where you can come face to face with hundreds of exotic animals from monkeys and meerkats to penguins and pandas. There are also a multitude of rides and experiences to keep the little ones entertained including Hello Kitty and Thomas the Tank Engine rides and the Eden's Eye Maze.

A short 20 minute drive and you can be at the coast enjoying the many delights of Cuckmere Haven which is sandwiched between Eastbourne and Seaford. Cuckmere Haven is an area of flood plains where the South Downs meets the English Channel – with stunning results. The track snakes down the valley by the twists and turns of the River Cuckmere, which opens out at a shingle beach offering dramatic views of the Seven Sisters – towering white chalk cliffs that drop sheer into the sea. With historical tales of smuggling and the Luftwaffe, it’s a fascinating place to explore on foot. And the flat terrain of the fertile valley floor makes it the perfect gentle winter amble. It’s also great for bird-watching, so don’t forget your binoculars!

Places to Visit

Alfriston Clergy House

Firle Place

Drusilla's Safari Park and Adventures

Seven Sisters Country Park

What's on

International Tennis, Eastbourne - June

Glyndebourne - July and August

Eastbourne Airbourne - August

Lewes Bonfire Society - November

Local shop — 3 miles Alfriston

Nearest supermarket — 5.5 miles Polegate

Nearest restaurant — 3 miles Alfriston

Local pub — 100 metres Alciston

Mainline rail service 5.5 miles away at Polegate for services to Gatwick Airport, London Victoria and Brighton

Gatwick Airport — 38 miles