Sussex


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_ext.png" alt="Highfields Estate self-catering stays, Sussex" class="wp-image-85268" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_ext.png 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_ext-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_ext-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_ext-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-lowdown">THE LOWDOWN</h2>



<p>Comprised of almost 200 acres of immaculately managed High Weald pastures and ancient woodland, Highfield Estate’s secluded accommodation ranges from a flagship farmhouse, which sleeps 10, to distinctive barns and shepherd’s huts. Exclusive Estate stays are also possible. We’re talking characterful comfort with an extra-large serving of Sussex serenity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Location-wise, the estate is within easy reach of London and Gatwick, and perfectly placed for exploring the region’s history and cultural highlights. Castles and coastline, vineyards and gardens are all nearby, and the stomping grounds of a certain Pooh Bear are virtually on the doorstep.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While it’s evolved with time, Highfields remains at heart a working farm, and a stay here makes you feel part of the area’s agricultural heritage – look out for herds of Charolais cattle with their distinctive white coats and pink noses.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-vibe">THE VIBE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_lawn.png" alt="Highfields Estate self-catering stays, Sussex" class="wp-image-85270" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_lawn.png 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_lawn-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_lawn-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_lawn-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Highfields casts its spell as soon as you turn off the main lane. You’ll find yourself on a long, winding private road fringed by beech trees. Horses graze in buttercup meadows and the lilac was in bloom when Muddy visited. We were booked into the Farmhouse for a night, a classic tile-clad homestead whose roots stretch back centuries.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Inside, it’s all beautifully preserved beams, diamond-paned windows and latched oak doors. There’s even an Aga. Playful flourishes like dog-covered wallpaper enliven a palette of soft neutrals, and while there’s plenty to look at (ooh, a bronze lamp base shaped like a duck!), nothing screams ‘don’t touch’. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_loungebeams.png" alt="Highfields Estate self-catering stays, Sussex" class="wp-image-85271" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_loungebeams.png 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_loungebeams-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_loungebeams-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_loungebeams-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Creaky floorboards? Nope, it’s plush carpets all the way, and while taller guests may need to duck through a doorway or two it’s definitely not pokey. In fact, there are no less than three living rooms – ideal for giving everyone a bit of space if you’re travelling in a larger group (or with tricky extended family, dare we say).&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-relaxation">RELAXATION</h2>



<p>For all that its views make you want to get out into the great yonder and hit the trails that crisscross the Estate, the Farmhouse is set up for lounging, loafing and generally kicking back. The dinky Snug vibes gentleman’s club, while, the sophisticated front sitting room has a generous hearth (idea for toasting crumpets – and toes – on a winter’s afternoon) as well as a built-in marble bar that’s pure vintage-glam. A martini? Now you’re talking! </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_cocktails.png" alt="Highfields Estate self-catering stays, Sussex" class="wp-image-85276" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_cocktails.png 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_cocktails-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_cocktails-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_cocktails-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Head out back through the boot room and you’ll find a paved terrace with attractive furniture for al fresco dining. There’s also a secluded hot tub. At the front of the house, an expanse of lawn contains an island of cushioned outdoor sofas with a BBQ and firepit.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Better yet, continue over a little footbridge and you’ll find a heated outdoor swimming pool, exclusive to the Farmhouse. A few laps before dinner felt the height of luxury. For all its Sussex authenticity, this particular Highfields dwelling radiates convincing villa energy at the right time of year. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1500" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_poolloungers.png" alt="Highfields Estate self-catering stays, Sussex" class="wp-image-85275" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_poolloungers.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_poolloungers-533x800.png 533w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_poolloungers-667x1000.png 667w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_poolloungers-768x1152.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-child-s-play">CHILD&#8217;S PLAY</h2>



<p>Abundant outdoor space is only to be expected on a country estate, and the pool is going to provide hours of larks. For rainy days, the house also its own Games Room, complete with table football and, yes, a Nintendo. Neon art gives it a grownup air that will go down well with the teen crowd, too. Meanwhile, more timeless pursuits like dominoes can be found tucked away around the house. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/9.png" alt="Highfields Estate self-catering stays, Sussex" class="wp-image-85263" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/9.png 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/9-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/9-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/9-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scoff-amp-quaff">SCOFF &amp; QUAFF</h2>



<p>A welcome hamper with eggs and a fresh loaf from a local bakery awaited us. There were coffee beans and we found milk in the fridge – oat milk included. In the dining room, the table was laid for 10 but the Aga makes the main kitchen (yes, there are two) an irresistible hub. You can feel that right here is where life would have been lived for generations. Gather around its rustic wooden table to plan your adventures for the day – not that you’ll want to rush off. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_diningroom-1.png" alt="Highfields Estate self-catering stays, Sussex" class="wp-image-85277" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_diningroom-1.png 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_diningroom-1-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_diningroom-1-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_diningroom-1-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>For essential provisions, there’s a convenience store in Hartfield, which also happens to sell chilled Bollinger, and is a few doors up from Pooh Corner. Don&#8217;t feel like cooking? You are on holiday, after all, so instead make a note of Blackbird Café at Birchden Vineyards. It&#8217;s just 5 mins away and serves brunch, charcuterie boards, crêpes and more. Chiddingstone, less than 15 mins away, is where you&#8217;ll find The Rock, which dishes up hearty favourites and Kentish charm. One extra tip: Kingdom Café, set within a magical woodland, serves tasty food and soul-nourishing vistas. Why not stay for a yoga class? </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_kitchen.png" alt="Highfields Estate self-catering stays, Sussex" class="wp-image-85279" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_kitchen.png 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_kitchen-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_kitchen-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_kitchen-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pillow-talk">PILLOW TALK</h2>



<p>As with the downstairs layout, there’s a sense of space up here that makes the Farmhouse extra attractive for larger groups. The bedrooms are sublimely comfortable. Two are ensuite and each has its own style and different but equally glorious views. The linens are all White Company, feathery towels included. Thoughtful touches include good hairdryers and straightening irons, and in a room with twin beds we found dinky wooden toys as well as a deep, cushioned window seat that would be ideal for reading bedtime stories from on a summer’s evening. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_floralwide.png" alt="Highfields Estate self-catering stays, Sussex" class="wp-image-85278" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_floralwide.png 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_floralwide-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_floralwide-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_floralwide-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>One extra detail to note: the countryside can sometimes be unexpectedly noisy at night, but we slept extra soundly, opening the curtains the next morning to rain but also more shades of green than we knew how to name. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_twinbeds.png" alt="Highfields Estate self-catering stays, Sussex" class="wp-image-85281" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_twinbeds.png 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_twinbeds-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_twinbeds-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_twinbeds-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-out-amp-about">OUT &amp; ABOUT</h2>



<p>The only real challenge is how much you can squeeze in? The Pooh Corner shop and museum is a must, and you can head to Ashdown Forest afterwards to play Poohsticks on the famous bridge. Hever Castle, Anne Boleyn’s moated childhood home, is very close and you could easily spend a whole day there exploring its history and grounds – there’s also a boating lake and a water maze. And speaking of splashy fun… You can be at Cuckmere Haven in under an hour, enjoying iconic Seven Sisters views, rock pools and roaming wild ponies. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/birchden_vineyard.png" alt="Birchden Vineyards" class="wp-image-85283" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/birchden_vineyard.png 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/birchden_vineyard-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/birchden_vineyard-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/birchden_vineyard-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Birchden Vineyards</figcaption></figure>



<p>Sussex is of course wine country, and there are a bunch of vineyards nearby. Award-winning Birchden is the closest – look out for seasonal events, vineyard picnics and tasting experiences. You’re also close to boho Forest Row, where you can hire a bike, and if you’re craving a little more bustle, there’s always the historic spa town of Tunbridge Wells. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-friendly">DOG-FRIENDLY?</h2>



<p>Absolutely. Furry friends are welcome in the farmhouse and all the cottages and huts, and dog bowls and beds are provided. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_pond.png" alt="Highfields Estate self-catering stays, Sussex" class="wp-image-85272" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_pond.png 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_pond-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_pond-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2026/07/highfields_pond-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accessibility">ACCESSIBILITY</h2>



<p>There are steps and stairs but the doorways are wide.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-muddy-verdict">THE MUDDY VERDICT</h2>



<p><strong>Good for</strong>: Families and larger groups looking for an authentic rural escape that combines practicality with unfussy luxury – you’ll feel suitably spoilt yet entirely at ease. Also, anyone who’s on a Pooh pilgrimage.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Not for</strong>: Those who need the razzle-dazzle of urban nightlife.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>The damage</strong>: From £600 to £1,200 per night. </p>



<p><em>Priory Park at Highfields Estate, Withyam, Hartfield, East Sussex, TN7 4DB, tel. no. 07759 829766, email: victoria@blackhamventures.com</em></p>



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Review: Blackham Court Farmhouse, Priory Park at Highfields Estate

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