Chodds Farmhouse

Chodds Farmhouse is on the main road in the lovely village of Handcross, close to the Nymans estate. The house dates back to the 1300s, and some parts were once used to house animals. We’ve breathed new life into this well-loved home, exposing original floors and beams. The ceilings are low but the cottage is bright with light colours, fresh design details and lots of comfortable, homely touches.   

The doorways are low as you enter from the back of the house. On the ground floor, there’s a big boot room as well as a second muddy entrance with a dog shower and utility room. The bright kitchen looks over the back garden and has a corner snug ready for morning coffees, while the sitting room and the dining room look out to the front. The cosy sitting room has comfortable sofas around a log burner, and the dining room has a huge inglenook fireplace dating from 1690, now home to a tangerine electric stove.

A curved staircase leads up to a hallway in the eaves, and all three bedrooms: the master bedroom with a king-size bed and fireplace, one double and one twin. There’s a generous family bathroom with roll-top bath and walk-in shower, as well as an additional WC.  

The farmhouse has private gardens at the front and back. The large, enclosed back garden is well-established and has a lawn as well as a dining patio.

Chodds Farmhouse is situated in the Weald and close to Ashdown Forest. It's in a village with a lovely café, local pub and shops a short walk away. A 30-minute drive takes you to the beach and historic lanes of Brighton, or to the extensive biking and walking trails of the South Downs. You’ll have free entry to Nymans’ elegant house and garden during your stay. Walk, cycle and spot wildlife in the woods, following paths that reveal a tranquil lake, cascades, sandstone outcrops and giant redwood trees.

For a holiday with family and friends, another National Trust holiday cottage, Woodlands Cottage, is a 10-minute walk away through the woods, and sleeps 4 people.