Sussex Self-catering Barn Style

Self-catering accommodation Acorns Barn has just opened its doors to guests and owners Karen and John Cooke are looking forward to welcoming small or large groups to the holiday cottage that can sleep up to eight.

Located on a rural lane in Cross in Hand, the oak-beamed barn, which was built around 1750, retains lots of its original features and is a great base for those wishing to explore East Sussex and Kent. Usefully, the Cookes live right next door so they are on hand, if needed, to help with recommendations and can’t wait to welcome guests to the area and their barn. ‘We want other people to share the enjoyment of it,’ explains Karen.

This tranquil retreat, with views over adjoining paddocks and woodland, has three bedrooms, one of which is on the ground floor, along with one of the two bathrooms. There is also a dining room which can become another downstairs bedroom for larger groups. The large living room has an inviting inglenook fireplace with a stove to take the edge off chilly evenings and guests have their own garden with large patio and plenty of parking.

Guests won’t run out of places to visit and things to do. Tunbridge Wells isn’t far, nor is Eastbourne. ‘We’ve got lots of golf courses nearby too,’ says John.

‘Eastbourne has so much to offer,’ adds Karen. ‘There are big shows at the theatres while Devonshire Park, with its world-class tennis tournament in the summer, is only 25 minutes away.’

Karen also recommends Sovereign Harbour. ‘There are lots of restaurants there. I love to go for a cappuccino and sit outside listening to the clinking of the yachts’ halyards. You can go on a harbour tour as well from here,’ she says. Where else would the couple suggest guests go? Between them, John and Karen reel off a long list, including Batemans, Standen, Herstmonceux Castle, Chartwell, Sissinghurst, Sheffield Park, Charleston Manor and the Bluebell Railway. The Cuckoo Trail, Beachy Head and Friston Forest also aren’t far. There are annual events too that are easy to access from Acorns Barn, such as Glyndebourne opera, the Heathfield Show and Eastbourne Airbourne.

For eating out close by, John and Karen highly recommend The Star at Waldron, around a mile along the lane, while there are plenty of other great country pubs a short drive away. However, with a fully equipped kitchen at the barn – tea, coffee, milk and welcome chocolates are provided – guests might just want to stay in and relax with a glass of wine over something home-cooked. Acorns Barn is a lovely place to take time out and replenish energies ready for another of the many local attractions.

Lewes Bonfire Nearly Here

Lewes Bonfire is less than one month away and if you are thinking of coming to the event but haven’t booked somewhere to stay, now is the time as accommodation is being snapped up. Short Stay Lewes, however, still has a few properties with some availability for Guy Fawkes weekend.

As 5th November falls on a Sunday this year, Lewes Bonfire takes place on Saturday 4th November, so get booking now. The evening involves a spectacular parade through the historic town followed by firework displays at sites around the town organised by the different Bonfire Societies. So click the ‘Book now’ button and you can see instantly who still has availability and book online straight away to avoid disappointment.

Don’t miss out on this great evening . Please note that some of our fabulous bed and breakfasts and self-catering accommodation will require you to book a minimum of two nights for this special event. Check out Short Stay Lewes availability now and come enjoy the amazing spectacle of Lewes Bonfire.

Perfect pub for food – and a pint of Harveys

It is no wonder that The Cock Inn is popular. This mid-16th-century pub, which lies back from the A26 between Lewes and Uckfield, is a lovely-looking building in an attractive rural setting with gardens and views to the beautiful South Downs. ‘The bar is the original oldest part with lots of character,’ explains owner Val Ridley. ‘Other eating areas have been added over the years, with our restaurant area being added in the eighties,’ she continues.

The Cock offers a range of great home-cooked food. ‘It’s to suit all tastes, budgets . . . and appetites,’ jokes Val. There are always five vegetarian choices on offer, including two vegan, and the pub is happy to cater for all dietary requirements.

‘Our visitors include lots of regulars as well as walkers, people visiting and staying locally, real-ale drinkers and families meeting from the surrounding towns. People mainly come to eat, but some locals just pop in for a drink in the lovely cosy bar with its inglenook fireplace.’ Locally brewed Harveys is served at The Cock – another attraction.

The pub is dog friendly. ‘Dogs are welcome in the garden and bar area,’ says Val, while dog chews and water bowls are designed to keep four-legged guests as happy as the two-legged ones. Children are catered for too, with a dedicated menu for youngsters as well as high chairs.

With Glyndebourne close by, Val says they see lots of folk from there, including orchestra members, some of whom have visited The Cock for years. There are also public footpaths a stone’s throw from the pub door, such as the Wellingham Walk, so it’s an ideal lunch stop or watering hole for walkers. ‘And the local hotels and bed and breakfasts often send their clients to us,’ she adds. Short Stay Lewes, of course, does!

Furthermore, this ancient tavern is on the bus route between Brighton and Tunbridge Wells and is easily accessible from Lewes, Brighton and the South Downs Way for those wanting a meal, snack or a drink.

The Highlands in Uckfield is under the same ownership.