luxury real estate for sale Saint Leonards-on-sea, United Kingdom

This delightful but unlisted farmhouse can be found at the end of a private farm track, off a quiet country lane, surrounded by wonderful countryside in the High Weald National Landscape. The property lies between the villages of Sedlescombe and Westfield and only a few miles from the historic towns of Battle and Hastings. It nestles in about 8.43 acres of grounds and includes a charming detached annex, a large purpose built stable block and fenced paddocks with superb hacking directly from the property. Over the years it has been extended and the current owners have completely but sensitively refurbished the entire property to a very high standard, while still retaining period features including exposed beams, wood doors and natural brick walls that give it such a special character. The oak and tiled entrance porch opens into the dual aspect modern kitchen/breakfast room. This features flagstone flooring, a stunning oak breakfast bar, a range cooker, a butler’s sink and shaker style units with wooden worktops housing integrated and stand-alone appliances. Off the kitchen is a utility area, where laundry facilities and dishwasher are found, leading onto the downstairs cloakroom with a featured wood wall, a bespoke vanity unit and understairs storage. Access to the terrace is directly from the kitchen for alfresco entertaining.  From the kitchen area you enter into a spacious bright hall leading to the rest of the ground floor accommodation including the well-proportioned, characterful triple aspect sitting room/dining room which is more than 30ft long and is stunning. The dining area is partially divided by a central chimney breast with a two-way log burner that heats the entire area and is a great focal point. From the sitting room you access, via an opening in the original stone wall, a large study with French doors out to the hot tub area and the essential boot room with further laundry facilities storage and further door is found here. The dining area has the added feature of leading into a bright and impressive conservatory with a slate roof, which affords the owner a panoramic vista of the beautifully landscaped garden, paddocks and views to the vineyards beyond. The oak staircase off the porch area gives access to the upstairs, where you will find four double bedrooms. There is a very smart Jack and Jill family bathroom with a contemporary stand-alone claw foot bath, a walk-in shower and a charming circular vanity basin. While there are uninterrupted views from all bedrooms to the far-reaching views across the properties land and surrounding countryside. There are features in every bedroom, from original floor to ceiling stone walls, brick fireplaces and beams, with double aspect windows. The principal suite is both large and airy, with patio doors opening onto a balcony for early morning coffee sat immersed in nature, the bedroom has direct private access to the trendy ensuite wet room with a walk-in shower, vanity unit, toilet and fitted cupboards. The owners have created a beautiful garden with a large sheltered terrace area for outdoor entertaining and relaxing in the sunshine. This is surrounded by gravelled terracing with raised flower and shrub beds and swathes of lawn interspersed with mature trees. The chalet style detached annex, with its own decked patio, includes a delightful bed/sitting room with a kitchenette and a shower room. It has been a very successful air b and b holiday let but would also make a great ‘home’ for adult children or an elderly relative or could equally be a fun games room and bar. There is also a large workshop and craft room, with electricity, as well as storage facilities for garden machinery and a woodshed. The generous and bright fully covered stable block includes connected electricity and water and consists of four large loose boxes and a feed/tack room surrounded by a spacious parking area that can accommodate large horseboxes, while the paddocks are all water connected and CCTV is linked to view horses.

The first thing that strikes you when arriving at this magnificent property is the truly beautiful 32-acre setting. Private electronically operated gates swing open to a long driveway that sweeps up past paddocks to one side and light woodland to the other to a large parking and turning area and the triple garage with annex above. For those with equine interest the drive continues to a very well-appointed stable block, tractor store, workshop and gym/studio. From here you can hop in the 4x4 utility buggy (available by negotiation) and wizz out into your private woodland or over to the paddocks. The main house is accessed via a large entrance hall past the grand staircase and a tucked away office to a wonderful Kitchen/Breakfast room which forms part of a sympathetic extension which introduces a significant amount of natural light into this room via a large, glazed lantern as well as superb flow out into the garden through the French doors. A separate utility room, downstairs cloak room and shower room adds practicalities, and a charming drawing room is the ideal place makes a useful flexible secondary reception room. The principal living space is a stunning space comprising the original Living room with its stylish fireplace that now opens seamlessly into a striking orangery, creating a single capacious room enjoying excellent natural light from multiple windows, French Doors and a substantial roof lantern. Upstairs the Principal bedroom suite mirrors the generous proportions of the living space with a capacious bedroom, fitted dressing room and en-suite shower, and enjoys views over the lawn garden and onwards over the paddock. Four further bedrooms, a box room and two more bathrooms caters for large families or multiple guests. Add to this a large room on the second floor which could be used as another bedroom, playroom or office. What the owner says. Equestrian scope, great schooling, international connections and privacy were the major factors that drew us to this fantastic house and its grounds. The Equestrian facilities are first class with gently sloping paddocks enclosed by (equaline) fencing, stabling and outbuildings that easily cope with our 7 ponies. The nearby Marlborough House Vinehall school is excellent as was our first choice of school for our children. To have had the school so close and convenient has been a real bonus over the years. Gatwick and Heathrow are easily accessible as is the Coast and links to the continent, and train access to London is equally convenient. Perhaps more than anything the quality of life provided to a family of the gardens and grounds and the variety of daily experience is priceless. From pottering around in the formal garden, to enjoying watching the ponies in the paddock, through to settling down for the afternoon, based at the summer house and enjoying the pond with its fish and wildlife.  Walking the dog in our private wood must include a detour to the massive Lime Tree (believed to be one of the largest in Sussex) because it is so dramatic and a reminder like the constant birdsong and the glimpses of fleet-footed deer of the magnificence of nature. .

The first thing that strikes you as you send your way down the driveway past the house is the glorious position in which it sits in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Surrounded by its gardens and paddocks the house enjoys the most delightful views over the valley and up towards the gorgeous hilltop village of Mayfield.   Stepping into the house itself you are greeted by a generous reception hall replete with a large brick fireplace (now fitted with a wood burning stove which has a back-boiler, which heats the hot water and the radiator on the landing on the first floor) with an oak Bressummer above and true to its country heritage an ancient rifle (not included).   The kitchen/breakfast room is the cosy heart of the home with its country style units, classic red Rangemaster, traditional white painted beams and unusual Venetian window. The kitchen has a built-in fridge and separate built-in freezer, and a built-in dishwasher. The front window offers a calming view out past a glorious old sycamore tree and beyond to the paddocks. The French Doors at the rear lead out onto the formal gardens and enjoy from your breakfast table the most delightful and far-reaching views. Step out onto the patio to enjoy the same view al fresco whilst remaining shaded by the charming, tiled roof.   The living room is a more modern addition beautifully in keeping with the style and character of the original farmhouse, retaining all its charm. There is an inglenook-style fireplace with an Aga stove and exposed timbers, and the room benefits from superb natural light from its triple aspect windows, including French Doors opening on to the patio and garden and the fabulous views.   A dining room, study, utility room and cloakroom complete the downstairs space and add plenty of flexibility whether you need two home offices, a playroom/den or separate entertaining space.   Upstairs you are blessed with a principal bedroom with a large en-suite bathroom; a modern must have that is often lacking in period farmhouses. This bright light room with its vaulted ceiling and triple aspect is a beautiful space to retire to at the end of the day. Three further double bedrooms, one of which has an en-suite shower room, and a good size family bathroom makes room for friends and family alike.   That mixture of practicality and charm continues outside with a generous driveway and triple garage with a large storage room over. The brick potting shed (with gardeners’ toilet) and wood store are charming and the wooden Summerhouse on the upper terrace makes the best of the views.   The gardens are truly delightful; well planted around a central lawn with beautiful space in trees to create all year-round interest and summer shade, and there is a charming vegetable area down by the potting shed. The paddocks are easily accessed from the driveway as is the four bay pole barn. The whole is deemed ideal for equestrian use and measuring 3.155 acres in total. What the owner says;  This has been such a beautiful location to live in surrounded by gorgeous rolling countryside and enjoying the delightful gardens and open fields. The views up towards Mayfield are incredible and make living here very special. I have loved creating an idyllic garden with the inspiration of the National trust’s Batemans ( the family home of Rudyard Kipling) just up the road. There iis plenty odf space for a weel stocked vegetable garden and the various outbuildings are incredibly useful. Heathfield Town is just up the road and caters for all your every day needs. Popping up to Royal Tunbridge Wells or down to the coast to visit Hastings, Brighton or Rye, or simply popping out to any number of pretty villages with local pubs and restaurants or up to London on the train gives you so much choice. Whatever you plan to do returning home to such a delightful, peaceful and calming environment is a true blessing

Historic Provenance & Wysteria CladNestled within the Isle of Oxney and the rolling countryside near Tenterden is a home of rare provenance, an enchanting and distinguished country retreat once owned by the late and celebrated British actor Donald Sinden. Adorned with its coveted blue plaque, the house stands as a quiet yet powerful testament to a life steeped in theatre, culture, and British heritage, offering a unique opportunity to own a piece of living history.The Quintessential Country HouseThe epitome of the quintessential English countryside. Surrounded by fields, scenic, winding country roads, and wisteria-clad frontage, the house creates an immediate sense of arrival -one of welcome, warmth, character, and enduring charm. Beyond the façade, the interiors unfold with elegant proportions and an unmistakable sense of soul. Exposed beams and original fireplaces blend effortlessly with refined, contemporary enhancements, making the home feel both authentic and beautifully liveable.Character, Charm & Contemporary ComfortA home that is both sizeably generous and versatile, offering two spacious and characterful reception rooms, each centred around original period fireplaces, creating inviting spaces ideal for relaxing or entertaining. At its heart is a fully equipped kitchen and dining area that serves as a natural gathering space, designed for day-to-day living. Five thoughtfully appointed bedroom suites, each designed for comfort and privacy, all of which are complemented by stylish bathrooms. Retaining much of its original charisma and charm, blending modern comfort, contemporary detailing, and the warmth of a traditional country home to create an inviting atmosphere. Enchanting Gardens & Rural OutlooksThe grounds are equally compelling. Set within private, mature gardens, together with an expansive lawn area, established trees and planting, and spectacular, far-reaching rural views.A Wonderful Setting for Outdoor EntertainingA sun-drenched terrace with a hot tub offers unrestricted views, a truly wonderful setting for outdoor entertaining, complemented by an outdoor fireplace and seating area for enjoying the long summer evenings. The separate Garden House provides exceptional additional space, featuring a fully equipped games room, workspace, and flexible accommodation for guests.Peaceful Yet Perfectly ConnectedDespite its idyllic rural setting, Oxley remains well connected. Located within easy reach of Tenterden town and approximately 21 km from Ashford International, it offers convenient access to London and London City Airport. Renowned cultural landmarks such as Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral are within a comfortable distance.A Legacy of Culture & CelebrationThis captivating home has been in the family for generations and has long been a house of family, hospitality and celebration. Over the years, it has welcomed an array of distinguished guests, from fellow thespians and artists to political figures and royalty, adding further depth to its already rich narrative.What truly sets Rat’s Castle apart is its atmosphere, a home imbued with history, creativity and quiet prestige. This is not simply a house, but a legacy; a timeless retreat where heritage, past and present come together to offer an idyllic lifestyle of charm, privacy, and distinction.Please get in touch for further details on a rare opportunity to acquire this stylish, turnkey country retreat.Quote Reference: 754459

I fell in love with the property the minute I saw it advertised and immediately bought it six years ago. It has been the favourite of all my previous homes in a wonderful community. However, life moves on and I am confident that the new owners will get as much enjoyment out of it this wonderful house, the village and the community as I have. It has been a wonderful home for me and my children and the house and patios lends themselves to entertaining friends and family. The individual “zones” provide intimate spaces to relax or and socialise. Memories of the laughter-filled dinner parties, summer garden parties and barbeques, with the music from the piano in the drawing room drifting through the house, will live with me always. I love the quirkiness and history of the property but I have also valued that internally the house has everything you might need for modern day living. The only enhancement I have made was to further extend the drawing patio with steps to an upper level patio and garden. My commute to London for work is relatively quick and the train services from Wadhurst or Tunbridge Wells is reliable and efficient. Parents are spoilt for choice with the many outstanding private schools in and around East Sussex and Tunbridge Wells, which also include some high performing grammar schools. I love the quiet and peaceful environment at the heart of the medieval village of Mayfield. With its thriving independent shops in the high street, which is a place of gathering for the village to celebrate various events such as the annual Bonfire Society parade, an acclaimed international music festival, Spring fair, Passion Play enactment, that bring the community together socially. There is a plethora of attractive and varied medieval and other period properties, with the high street buttressed by the grandeur of the Bishops Palace first built in 1250 on permission from Pope Alexander IV, now the acclaimed Mayfield Convent School for Girl, as well as pubs and restaurants and the historic 13th century church, St Dunstans, Mayfield’s very own saint. It has a variety of sports and social clubs. The delightful shops including a superb deli, baker, butcher, florist, coffee shop, local convenience store and post office. The village is surrounded by vineyards with many producing world-class English sparkling wines, wine and spirits, some of which are available in the outstanding wine shop in the high street. You can get most essentials and many non-essential items in the village but there is also nearby Heathfield and Crowborough with their supermarkets while Tunbridge Wells is less than 10 miles away for more in depth retail therapy and and entertainment.”

Set within 24 acres of landscaped gardens, parkland and ancient woodland this glorious unlisted country house includes an indoor swimming pool complex. While an attached three-bedroom cottage is available by separate negotiation. A private lane leads under a clock tower to a circular driveway and garaging for four cars and an enclosed porch opens onto a landing and oak stairs to the ground floor hall that has access to a cloakroom and wine store. There is a triple aspect 37ft long sitting room with a vast brick fireplace, a patterned ceiling, wood flooring and a large bay with French doors to the garden while the dining room has a fireplace, beamed ceiling, herringbone parquet flooring, display shelves and banquette window seating. The kitchen/breakfast room includes exposed beams, parquet flooring and a large inglenook fireplace in the dining area while the kitchen features Poggenpohl units housing modern appliances. There is a dual aspect study/snug with oak panelling, a stone fireplace and fitted shelving as well as a large utility room/scullery. From here steps lead down to the indoor swimming pool complex with its 34ft pool, hot tub, shower, changing rooms, cloakroom and a seating area inside and a large terrace outside. The galleried landing with exposed beams and storage cupboards provides access to a family bathroom and shower room as well as five/six double bedrooms. Some of the bedrooms have beams and fireplaces while the guest room has a barrelled ceiling and living room/sixth bedroom. There is a second staircase to the ground floor and stairs to the attic room. The principal suite includes an ante room, a contemporary ensuite bathroom and a bedroom with a barrelled ceiling and a large bay window. The terraced garden has steps to different areas and pathways through shrubs and trees. There is a sheltered courtyard and a formal garden with a terrace partially enclosed by clipped hedging surrounded by lawns and colourful shrubs as well as a waterfall and stream plus acres of pasture, part of which could always become paddocks. While six ‘hopper’s’ huts with separate access could be converted, subject to planning. What the owners say: “This has been a special home for over 45 years but it is time to pass the baton on to new owners to cherish it as we have. Although it is private and secluded, it is not isolated as it is part of a small enclave of properties which were the original Bassetts estate. We are a couple of miles from Mark Cross and it is not much further to Wadhurst station where trains to London Bridge take 53 minutes, while Wadhurst Road provides easy access to the A267 for Tunbridge Wells. Mark Cross includes a primary school, a village hall and we can walk to the Lazy Fox pub, while Wadhurst has a charming high street, supermarkets and independent shops, pubs and restaurants, a farmer’s market, sports clubs and a community cinema. There is a primary school, Uplands Academy and the independent Sacred Heart school as well as doctors, a dentist, vets and beauty salons, the station and bus services.  Nearby is Bewl Water and Bedgebury Pinetum for a variety of outdoor activities while Tunbridge Wells offers high street stores, independent shops, bars and restaurants, retail parks, a station and excellent sport, entertainment and educational facilities.