Four Large Luxury Self Catering Houses Rent one or rent them all
Event Spa Retreat Accommodation
Award Winning Quirky Design
West Sussex South Downs National Park
Landscape Views At hay making time we would look up from the hayfields at tea time to see my mum walking down past the earth works of the Roman fort, with a large basket with tea and sandwiches. She would have been delighted to see
how they were enjoying being in this beautiful place. Now my young granddaughter, also born here on the farm, and sixth generation, is taken by daughter Amy around the sheep and cattle even though she is only months old. Amy has a true connection with grazing and rare breed conservation. Lapwing, Barn Owl and dragonfly programmes in full swing. We also have been active in rare native West Sussex tree planting. To run this self catering business we have adopted much of our "back to nature" farming ethos. No insecticides, pesticides or artificial fertilisers. The flora and fauna in our ancient meadows are our proud statement. The houses have been built and designed by us with love and as much as possible with recycled materials, timber from railway bridges, bricks gleaned from local buildings and hand cleaned. Tiles in one case from Bognor cinema. Tree planting is in our blood always a minimum of 100 native trees a year. In the spring we look for our swallows returning each year as do the skeynes of geese who come for the winter. The inter-generational nature of the business is reflected by the excellent team headed in the senior management Michelle Matthews whose grandmother did, mother does and children have, worked to ensure our guests get the level of service our Visit England five star and gold awards reflect. Our Rural England 2022 award for best rural tourist business reflects the energy of her team Tina, Olivia, Janet and Tracey. Gary Elliott built with his father Rodney and between them have built the houses from the ground up. Gary continues to build, this year a hay barn from massive railway bulks clad with larch from a local sawmill. Gary now also in charge of repairs and renewals. I am often asked where the inspiration comes from for the design of the interiors, our rooms as varied as Frida Kahlo or Chinese boudoir. Many trips to India and a close relationship with the Karir family in Brick Lane, has developed an Oriental passion. Time when young with Buddhists, love of Italy and daughter Nina now guiding the vibes and image with an arty family also helps. The design concept of the Saxon Hall with double height central hall. Sleeping and washing areas separated to the side has worked well, and the buildings sit into the countryside comfortably. But the story is about people, the people who have worked, the excellent team we have currently, and our guests who we are pleased to share and show this wonderful piece of biodiversity.
