Dog-friendly Hotels East Sussex

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.

Situated in a tiny hamlet adjoining the owner’s oast, this well-presented holiday cottage with an enclosed, secluded courtyard garden, makes an ideal base from which to explore the glorious Sussex countryside. The village of Herstmonceux is just ½ a mile away and has pubs and a restaurant. Herstmonceux Castle and gardens are close by and are home to the Observatory Science Centre, offering both adults and children some hands-on science, amongst the domes and telescopes of a world famous astronomical observatory. See the beautiful 7-acre gardens at Michelham Priory, or visit Rudyard Kipling’s home at Batemans (NT), and Charleston, home to the Bloomsbury set. The beach is can be reached within 8 miles at either Eastbourne or Cooden. Trains can be boarded via Polegate, giving access to Brighton or London for additional sightseeing. Golf and trout fishing (from £20 per day) are available locally, and walks and cycle paths emanate from the front door. Beach 8 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.