A perfect weekend in... East Sussex
East Sussex is the perfect place for a short break: we challenge you to find a better place in Britain to spend a weekend studying the three Rs; retreating, relaxing and resting.
A trip to this part of the world provides the chance to get off the beaten track, enjoy some stunning scenery, long walks and potter around picturesque villages.
Just an hour and a half from London in the car, this county offers dramatic cliff-top walks, beautiful coastal scenery, wonderful villages and towns and best of all, gets you away from the rat race of the city (top tip: leave your phone at home).
Where to stay:
Brooks Lodge, Piddinghoe (sleeps four).
Nestled in a valley by the River Ouse, this new build has floor-to-ceiling windows, wet rooms, stunning terraces and gorgeous rooms to while away the days in. What really sets it apart, however, is the owner's attention to detail. Mouth-watering home-made cakes await the hungry traveller on their arrival, beautiful fresh flowers adorn almost every room and thoughtful food hampers provide the necessities so you can unpack and relax without rushing out to the shops. If the weather's good enough, BBQ your way through your stay on the terrace, with produce from local delicatessens.
Visit RuralRetreats.co.uk to book.
Lewes/
Where to visit:
The picture-perfect town of Lewes. A short drive away from Piddinghoe, it's brimming with character and packed full of shops selling local produce. Browse the numerous antique shops, stock up at the Farmer's Market (on the first Saturday of every month), and pay a visit to the stunning castle. Make sure you stop off at Anne of Cleves House, the Tudor birthplace of one of Henry VIII's unlucky wives.
A trip to fun-filled Brighton is also recommended. It's a little more than seven miles to the famous Brighton pier for a stroll down the promenade and an ice cream.
A short drive away you'll also find the beautiful Seven Sisters Country Park. Made up of 280 hectares of chalk cliffs, river valley and fields, its perfect for walking, cycling, canoeing - and even a spot of birdwatching. Why not try your hand at fishing, you might even catch something for dinner!
Where to walk:
Follow the River Ouse, which is just across the road from the property, as it snakes it way across fields and admire the British countryside. Or take a hike down to the coast which is three miles away.
Don't miss:
Beachy Head. It's a 30-minute drive from the house, but it's well worth a visit. Take in the dramatic, breathtaking panoramic scenery as you ramble across the cliff tops, before stopping off for a well-deserved pub lunch at The Beachy Head.
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