Dog-friendly Hotels East Sussex

Cowbeech Farm Cottage is situated in the beautiful grounds of the owner’s farmhouse on the edge of the village which bears the same name. Originally part of the old dairy and very much a working dairy farm back in the 1950s, it has its own enclosed garden off the original farmyard. The stunning farmhouse grounds have featured in the National Garden Scheme, and other magazines, and guests can stroll around the lake and marvel at the unusual Japanese garden. On the boundary of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and within strolling distance of the local hostelry, which dates back to the early 1600s. A walkers and cyclists paradise, try the Cuckoo Trail, 19 miles of walkways and lanes that follows the old Cuckoo Line Railway from Heathfield to Eastbourne, and gained its name from the releasing of a cuckoo at the Heathfield Fair.
Michelham Priory, Herstmonceux Castle and its gardens, Drusillas Zoo and the Bluebell Railway are great days out, or spend a Saturday evening stargazing at Herstmonceux Science Observatory. Eastbourne with its beaches and pier is a 30-minute drive, and Battle is 8 miles with good rail connections to London. Should the weather be inclement, there is a leisure centre at Hailsham with flumes, inflatables and ten pin bowling. Beach 9 miles. Shop ¾ mile, pub and restaurant 175 yards.

Nestling in the heart of the Tillingham Valley and located on a 200-acre family-run, traditional working sheep and fruit farm, these holiday properties (refs 19652 and 19745 ) are ideally based for exploring the Kent and Sussex countryside. A walkers paradise, with an apple orchard and sheep filled fields to wander over and connect with several public footpaths. See the lambs under the trees of apple blossom in spring, or visit the ancient Cinque Port town of Rye, with its cobbled streets, tea rooms, art galleries and far reaching views over the Romney Marsh. Rye activities include the Scallop Festival in February, the Maritime Festival and Raft Race in August, an arts festival in September and Rye Fawkes Bonfire in November. Camber, Bodiam and Scotney castles are all nearby, along with Battle Abbey and the beautiful gardens of Sissinghurst, Pashley, Great Dixter and Bedgebury Pinetum. Fishing, golf, swimming, sailing, horse riding, cycle hire and rowing boat hire are all available locally, or take the time to explore the wonderful nature reserve at Rye Harbour. Beaches at Winchelsea, 3 miles, and the fabulous golden sands at Camber, 6 miles. Enjoy a tour around and sample the produce of the local vineyards or ride on the vintage steam railway to Bodiam. Rye railway station provides access to London in 1 hour 45 minutes. Shops and pub 2 miles.
Refs 19652 and 19745 can also be booked with refs 29071 and 29072 to accommodate up to 18 guests.

These semi-detached holiday properties (refs 29887, 29895, 29896, and W43461) reside in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the glorious Sussex countryside and were once part of Vigoes Dairy Farm until the end of the 20th century. Set back from the road, each property has its own individual terrace with furniture, and to the rear of the buildings is a shared grassed area, beyond which is a paddock, an ideal place in which to let off steam, kick a ball around, or have a leisurely picnic. Spot deer, the occasional buzzard, or the very rare short-toed eagle! Walks and cycle routes beckon from the doorstep. See the beautiful Sheffield Park Gardens (National Trust) where, in the 1700s, Capability Brown was commissioned to landscape the gardens. A glorious feast of red and gold in the autumn and where the national collection of Ghent azaleas can be seen in their full glory in the spring alongside the bluebells. In 1876 the third Earl of Sheffield laid out a cricket pitch where the first ever match against Australia was played in 1884! The Bluebell Railway offers an opportunity to stroll amongst the locomotives in the engine sheds and perhaps spot ‘Stepney’ who appears in the Thomas the Tank Engine books, and of course, take a train journey. Stroll through the Ashdown Forest which covers approximately 10 square miles and in fact is not all forest but largely heathland, where cattle and sheep also freely graze for part of the year. It is also famous for the Winnie The Pooh Stories written by AA Milne who lived on the northern edge of the forest with his son Christopher Robin. Attend Glyndebourne, visit the county town of Lewes with its museum, antique shops, and brewery, or head to the coast at Brighton or Eastbourne across the South Downs. Horse riding is available locally. Good rail connections to London from Haywards Heath for further sightseeing opportunities. Shop 1 mile and pub/restaurant 1½ miles.

Originally built in 1896, Spilstead Barn has been converted in 2018 into a delightfully welcoming holiday cottage. Still used for livestock and farming today, the 22 acre estate sets the scene with stables greeting you opposite the front door.
You enter into the open plan living area, with a modern kitchen, shower room and the sitting and dining areas. You can see exposed glimpses of the original barn, with the beautifully restored beams cleverly separating the spaces. An extra touch of luxury has been added too, with new underfloor heating downstairs to keep your toes warm in colder months.
The stairs lead you onto a large landing with soft, deep pile carpets and a cosy reading corner. There are two bedrooms, one a twin with lovely oak furniture, and a master bedroom at the far end with king size bed and fabulous views over the estate. There is also a smart shared bathroom to unwind in after a day out visiting the local towns and natural beauty of 1066 country.
Outside you have a private, fully enclosed garden. With children and dogs welcomed, this is a perfect space for them to play while you relax on the decking and enjoy some shade and a book under the parasol. When you are ready to explore a little further, head out of the gate and the hidden gem of Spilstead Barn is reached by a glorious half mile walk. Stroll past the paddocks on a tree-lined avenue, along the old vineyard which meets the open fields, and you will find the beautiful, secluded private lake. With a picnic table and small rowing boat awaiting, you can dip your toes in the water, enjoy a spot of fishing or even take a leisurely swim around the island.

Nestling in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, The Peacock Barn is a single-storey, detached, barn conversion. It has been thoughtfully converted to a high standard and enjoys far reaching rural views. A peaceful haven from the hustle and bustle of everyday life surrounded by 80 acres of working farmland with sheep and horses. The property is accessed from Burwash village via a half mile farm drive, with a 15th-century pub at the village end of the lane, serving local ales and good food, which makes for an enjoyable walk. There are miles of walking opportunities directly from the farm. Burwash itself is steeped in history and was a notorious spot for smugglers and highwaymen in the 18th and 19th centuries. The pretty, weather-boarded high street is a conservation area, and Bateman’s mansion, a fine example of Jacobean architecture, is just outside the main village. It was once owned by Rudyard Kipling and is now open to the public, National Trust. Battle Abbey lies 9 miles to the south east, Bodiam Castle, (also National Trust) with its fairytale moat, is 8 miles to the east. Enjoy a trip on the Kent and East Sussex steam railway which runs from Bodiam to Tenterden, known as ’The Jewel in the Weald’, through 10½ miles of beautiful Kent and Sussex countryside. Fishing, cycling and water sports can be enjoyed at Bewl Water, and the many award-winning local vineyards are an enjoyable day out. Camber Sands near Rye is a magnificent beach or discover the beaches at Hastings and Bexhill. Discover Bedgebury, not only offering the pinetum but also Go Ape too. The owner lives on site for your convenience and the parking is in the cottage grounds. Beach 15 miles. Shop ½ mile.

What a treat! This meticulous, detached barn conversion, originally built in the 1800’s, is set within the owner’s 37½ acres of lush greenery. You’ll have sole use of the orchard area, and will be surrounded by fields of sheep, geese, ducks and chickens. Chilsham Barn has been renovated to a remarkable standard, with travertine marble floor and eye-catching, exposed timber framework throughout. This property is filled with character and oozes charm, but also provides guests with fresh features to create a home from home feel. Boasting traditional features combined with a contemporary design, it creates something quite magnificent.
Natural light floods the open plan living/dining room through the floor-to-ceiling, full length windows. As the sun sets, and it becomes dark outside, the large chandelier will create a cushy ambience throughout. The property is equipped with underfloor heating and a wood burner to keep you toasty even in the bitter winter. With a stylish, out-of-the-way kitchen, you’ll have a perfect setting to put your culinary skills the test and cook up a delight. When snuggled up on the sofa, you can enjoy a mug of hot chocolate and a family film on the 52” Freeview TV with Netflix.
Once you’re ready to call it a night, let the impressive, open-tread, oak stairs lead you up to the bright, galleried landing. When upstairs, you’ll discover two beautifully, minimalistic bedrooms, with high vaulted ceilings, that sing of a blissful night’s sleep. Enjoy ultimate peace and quiet in the tasteful en-suite bathrooms, with contemporary furnishings.
In the summer months, the outdoor seating area is perfect for you to enjoy a morning coffee, or an al fresco evening meal. You can sit out and watch the children play in the large grassed area, whilst you take in the beautiful, far-reaching views. Chilsham Barn is a property you don’t want to miss, it is nothing short of remarkable!

These semi-detached holiday properties (refs 29887, 29895, 29896, and W43461) reside in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the glorious Sussex countryside and were once part of Vigoes Dairy Farm until the end of the 20th century. Set back from the road, each property has its own individual terrace with furniture, and to the rear of the buildings is a shared grassed area, beyond which is a paddock, an ideal place in which to let off steam, kick a ball around, or have a leisurely picnic. Spot deer, the occasional buzzard, or the very rare short-toed eagle! Walks and cycle routes beckon from the doorstep. See the beautiful Sheffield Park Gardens (National Trust) where, in the 1700s, Capability Brown was commissioned to landscape the gardens. A glorious feast of red and gold in the autumn and where the national collection of Ghent azaleas can be seen in their full glory in the spring alongside the bluebells. In 1876 the third Earl of Sheffield laid out a cricket pitch where the first ever match against Australia was played in 1884! The Bluebell Railway offers an opportunity to stroll amongst the locomotives in the engine sheds and perhaps spot ‘Stepney’ who appears in the Thomas the Tank Engine books, and of course, take a train journey. Stroll through the Ashdown Forest which covers approximately 10 square miles and in fact is not all forest but largely heathland, where cattle and sheep also freely graze for part of the year. It is also famous for the Winnie The Pooh Stories written by AA Milne who lived on the northern edge of the forest with his son Christopher Robin. Attend Glyndebourne, visit the county town of Lewes with its museum, antique shops, and brewery, or head to the coast at Brighton or Eastbourne across the South Downs. Horse riding is available locally. Good rail connections to London from Haywards Heath for further sightseeing opportunities. Shop 1 mile and pub/restaurant 1½ miles.

This hidden gem lies secluded in a stunning location with panoramic views of Bewl Water literally on its doorstep. A thoughtful conversion of a former hop picker’s cottage, it provides contemporary accommodation of a high standard. Guests can enjoy the comforts of a glowing wood burner when evenings become chilly, and on warmer evenings, twin terraces provide the opportunity to sit back and absorb the lakeside view after a day’s cycling or walking along the plethora of footpaths, and being able to enjoy a sundowner as the setting sun changes the glowing colour of Bewl Water before your eyes. The surrounding Bewl Water is the largest stretch of water in the south east, so you can spend a day fishing, sailing, canoeing or wind surfing. If dry land is more your style, bring your own bicycle (or hire one) and cycle around Bewl - the village of Wadhurst is within easy reach, where pubs, restaurants and shops abound. Many notable National Trust gardens and houses are within an easy drive, including Scotney Castle, Sissinghurst, Chartwell, Batemans, Knole House and Bodiam Castle. Brighton, Rye and Camber Sands are also within easy reach of this little jewel of Sussex heaven. Beach 22 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

Set in the heart of 1066 country and the High Weald, Netherfield Hill Farm, a fully operational small holding of 32 acres of glorious farmland and a beautiful back drop native woodlands. From wonderfully styled and spacious, Old Dairy (26238) you can while away the time in the most peaceful and tranquil surroundings, watching the livestock grazing in the pasture. Poachers View (UKC2488) has a cosy wood burner and open plan living space and The Hayloft (UKC2489) has a decked verandah for enjoying the views. Within a short amble or so, you can stroll the plethora of woodland dog walking tracks and paths and enjoy the beautiful High Weald Sussex landscapes, fabulous bluebell woods (April), and some stunning treks across the most beautiful countryside.
Be sure to explore the historic sites the county has to offer, including the magnificent Battle Abbey (English Heritage) and the 1066 Battlefield where one of the best known events in English history occurred, and where the battle re-enactment takes place (October) as well as the vast Battle Bonfire Society’s magnificent firework celebration (November). Battle is an attractive market town with many restaurants, tea rooms, galleries and a train station which provides good connections to London for further sightseeing opportunities.
A short drive takes you to the cosmopolitan seaside town of Hastings, where you can visit the ruins of Hastings castle, once home to William the Conqueror, and see the quirky buildings and famous Fisherman’s huts and Maritime Museum found along The Stade. Hastings has reputedly, the largest offshore Fishing Fleet in Europe, it is highly recommended that you should indulge yourself with locally caught seafood, along with visits to the Food festivals (September) and Beer and Music festivals (July) and other local festivals throughout the year. There are some fantastic pubs and restaurants serving the finest local fayre, equally with views over the most breathtaking and far reaching scenery. There are, within a short drive many National Trust sites from Sheffield Park, Batemans, Sissinghurst Castle, Scotney Castle, Chartwell House Ightam Mote and Knowle Park and House just to name a few. Other wonderful sites include the seven ‘Mad’ Jack Fuller’s Follies dotted around the High Weald countryside from the Pyramid mausoleum in the churchyard at Brightling, the Sugar Loaf, Observatory, Tower and Temple. There is a farm shop on site for award winning home reared meats and produce. Shop and restaurant 2 miles, pub 1½ miles.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 8 guests.

Bring your friends or family to this darling stable conversion, green pastures stretch out from the roofed porch where you can sit and watch the children play or take some time out with a good book. This pet friendly accommodation is perfect to enjoy, whilst visiting the magnificent gardens of East Sussex or heading to the beach with a bucket and spade.
With a myriad of delightful quaint tea shops and cafés to choose from in nearby Battle, it is possible to while away the hours investigating the history and the legend of the infamous 1066 battle. Browse the antique shops on the pretty streets emanating out from Battle Abbey, in autumn watch out for the firework parades and explore a bygone era at ’Yesterday’s World’ on the High Street, where a nostalgic trip down memory lane awaits.
The larger coastal town of Hastings is only 15 minutes away by car, perfect to soak up the traditional seaside atmosphere. Wander through the Old Town where there are plenty of English pubs to choose from, offering great live music in the evenings or try the amusements by the beach, have a ’fish and chip dinner’ and an ice cream to complete a wonderful day.
If you’re looking to retire closer to home, Sedlescombe Golf Club can accommodate golfing enthusiasts at any skill level and ’Green’s’ restaurant is a perfect way to fill up on hearty local food at the end of the day. Sedlescombe Vineyard provides an excellent day out, explore the vineyard or take a guided tour with wine tasting which can be rounded off with a delicious Ploughmans lunch or afternoon cream tea. The village pub ’The Queens Head’ is incredibly charming, welcomes dogs and has great food all within walking distance too.
Carefully renovated to provide outward facing aspects to maximise privacy, this holiday home can be booked independently or in conjunction with its sister property Castlemans Stables West.