A paradise for nature lovers, this barn has been converted into a wonderful two-bed, detached house, set on a private nature reserve. It’s located in the hamlet of Three Oaks, surrounded by wildflower meadows, a stream and a landscape of woodlands and wetlands. As part of the rental agreement, the knowledgeable owner is happy to give a guided tour either on foot or by vehicle of the 350 acres which feature Konik ponies used for conservation grazing, seasonal wild orchids and an abundance of butterflies, birds, dragonflies and invertebrates. Guests are welcome to explore by themselves too – whether you visit for bird watching, walking or simply enjoying the flora and fauna, this is a lovely spot. If you can tear yourself away, the past calls at charming towns like Rye (8 miles), Battle (8 miles) and Hastings (5 miles) which offer independent shopping and historic buildings – the latter also has the lure of the sea.
Open the door and the entrance hall has practical storage for shoes, boots and coats. Downstairs is one long open-plan space, split neatly into living, dining and kitchen areas. Light and airy with generous windows, the exposed oak frame and beams of the house are complemented by the lovely oak flooring dotted with Persian rugs and light wood furniture throughout. It’s at once welcoming and cosy. A snug with seating offers views over the meadow, while the sitting room has comfortable seating around a wood burner for those chillier nights. In the dining room, there’s a country-style dining table with four chairs and a bench. A door to the terrace means you can let the country air in, whatever the weather. After that, the kitchen is a wonderful space for self-catering – relax in here with its quaint sloping beamed ceiling, and generous island with stools so you can have company while you cook. The fitted units offer all mod cons, with a Rayburn for that true country vibe, granite work surfaces and practical and attractive tiled floor. The sleeping accommodation is up the bespoke oak open staircase, comprising two king-size bedrooms both with oak flooring and vaulted ceilings. You’re bound to sleep soundly in these elegant and welcoming spaces. One of these rooms has a zip-and-link bed that can be separated into twin beds, while the other room boasts its own en-suite shower room with underfloor heating and attractive tiling. There’s another modern, tiled wet room on the ground floor plus a bathroom with roll-top bath and shower upstairs.
There is a terraced area to the rear and front of the property with outside seating and a fire bowl for guests to enjoy. The real draw is the 350-acre private nature reserve that guests can explore. Maps of the farm showing walks are provided. The rental agreement also includes a full tour of the reserve, lasting 4-5 hours, by the owner. Don’t forget your binoculars!