Sussex


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/7-5-1000x667.jpg" alt="self catering near Chichester" class="wp-image-70270" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/7-5-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/7-5-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/7-5-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/7-5.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-location"><strong>THE LOCATION</strong></h3>



<p>Shhhhhh, we’d prefer not everyone knew about this seriously stunning spot in West Sussex, ok, ok, we’ll share the secret with Muddy readers. The village of West Ashling &#8211; where <a href="https://www.oakwoodwestholidays.co.uk/large-group-holiday-cottages">Oakwood West Holiday</a>s has set up rather glamorous camp &#8211; sits prettily between the South Coast (there’s even a sandy beach) and the rolling hills of the South Downs and all just 10 minutes outside of Chichester. You have it all on the doorstep here, coast, city and countryside. As Muddy made our way from the bright lights of Brighton for a retreat with friends (wine, snacks and laptops for remote working all packed) we collectively gasped as we approached the village getting tunnel vision as the trees formed a continuous canopy overhead. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/3-22-1000x667.jpg" alt="self catering near Chichester" class="wp-image-70271" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/3-22-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/3-22-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/3-22-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/3-22.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>A few wrong turns, Muddy’s not the best with maps, even with the sat nav and excellent directions from our hosts, we arrived at Oakwood West, via a private gate and keycode entry, feeling like Hollywood A-listers with our own private gate we pulled up to Lucky’s Stable &#8211; our home for the next few days. Opposite there’s a field where goats roam and you can also see horses in the distance. It’s a 10minute drive from a variety of large supermarkets so you can stock up easily. Location wise it really doesn&#8217;t get better than this. Although, with the hot tub in the peaceful garden we really didn’t want to go anywhere.  </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-vibe"><strong>THE VIBE</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/1-19-1000x667.jpg" alt="self catering near Chichester" class="wp-image-70272" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/1-19-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/1-19-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/1-19-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/1-19.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>After retrieving the key from the key box, we felt as if we’d stepped into a 5 star hotel, the place was immaculate (insanely clean) with every little detail covered, from a cupboard (yes an entire chest size) of games to hot-tub friendly wine glasses and a waterproof OS map of the area. But it’s anything but stuffy, there’s lots of character from the interior design (a team effort from the family-run business) with lots of natural wood touches (one family member was a tree surgeon) with a log burner indoors as well as a large fire in the garden kitchen &#8211; and the hosts provide everything you need to light it.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/4-14-1000x667.jpg" alt="self catering near Chichester" class="wp-image-70273" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/4-14-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/4-14-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/4-14-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/4-14.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>There’s a handbook with strict instructions, but ones that all make complete sense to keep things pristine and help you fully relax. There’s a boot room as soon as you walk in so muddy boots and wet jackets can be hung up and you can get cosy in the lounge with a board game and tea. There’s plenty of privacy too, whatever your size of group you can certainly get away from each other (if you so wish) but Muddy’s group were all working remotely and we each had space to make calls and work while someone else busied themselves in the kitchen or if you’re like Muddy, in the hot tub &#8211; that counts as work too, right?</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/15-1000x667.jpg" alt="self catering near Chichester" class="wp-image-70274" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/15-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/15-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/15-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/15.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>The kitchen comes equipped with everything you’d expect, even a plate warmer and there’s a welcome bottle of fizz, some crisps and chocolates &#8211; none of which made it past the first night. Every morning the hot tub is checked too, there are heated towel rails in the bathrooms, and a folder full of local info. These small but chic touches really turn this sort of stay from average to amazing.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pillow-talk"><strong>PILLOW TALK </strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/13-1000x667.jpg" alt="self catering near Chichester" class="wp-image-70275" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/13-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/13-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/13-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/13.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms at Lucky’s (what Muddy affectionately calls it) and the bedroom off the lounge can be made up as either a twin or double. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/14-1000x667.jpg" alt="self catering near Chichester" class="wp-image-70276" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/14-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/14-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/14-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/14.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>My double room was bright and cosy, but also incredibly quiet, after a rather stressful summer this was the best few night’s sleep I’d had in months. The pièce de résistance was that both upstairs rooms have windows that opened out into mini balconies so you can look out over the garden and surrounding fields. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/12-1-1000x667.jpg" alt="self catering near Chichester" class="wp-image-70277" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/12-1-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/12-1-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/12-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/12-1.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Every room has a small dressing table that doubles up as a desk for anyone who wants work from ‘home’ but I did certainly have a snooze on the outside sofa too, as the September sunshine made its last appearance. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scoff-amp-quaff"><strong>SCOFF &amp; QUAFF</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/8-4-1000x667.jpg" alt="self catering near Chichester" class="wp-image-70278" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/8-4-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/8-4-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/8-4-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/8-4.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>As a self-catered property, you are obviously fending for yourself when it comes to food but it’s hardly difficult with so many shops nearby including farm shops. But for the nights you’re not willing to take advantage of the huge kitchen or outdoor BBQ, then you can head to local pubs, the nearest options are the <a href="https://www.therichmondarms.co.uk/">Richmond Arms</a>, <a href="https://thehorseandgroom.pub/">Horse and Groom</a> and <a href="https://www.crownandanchorchichester.com/">Crown and Anchor </a>with views across the estuary (insider intel: in summer locals often paddle board from Chichester marina to this pub).</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/2-22-1000x667.jpg" alt="self catering near Chichester" class="wp-image-70279" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/2-22-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/2-22-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/2-22-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/2-22.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>We were celebrating one of our party’s birthdays (we won’t share how old they turned, lets go with 21, (again)) so stocked up on the entire dairy worth of cheese and the same volume of charcuterie. The property has plenty of boards and serving dishes and we sat on the garden furniture for hours under the festoon lights nibbling away at all the cheese and chatting. While there are several properties in the portfolio, things feel very private and personal. After all that cheese it’s a miracle we didn’t sink in the hot tub after. There’s a sound system under the stairs, which you can hear outside and the tub has a variety of light settings we had out version of a very tame ‘club night.’ Who needs Ibiza at this age anyway? </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wellbeing"><strong>WELLBEING</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/9-3-1000x667.jpg" alt="self catering near Chichester" class="wp-image-70280" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/9-3-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/9-3-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/9-3-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/9-3.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>We’re not sure where’s better to have a morning coffee than outside on the sofas following a sunrise stroll which out can do right from Lucky’s front door. When soaking and sunbathing in the hot tub gets too much, for some mindfulness Muddy popped opposite to admire the animals grazing and when the wind settles down you can play badminton in the net thats already set up in the garden wi rackets and shuttle cocks. Just don’t expect to have a rally! Well, if you’re anything like the Muddy Sussex crew.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/10-2-1000x667.jpg" alt="self catering near Chichester" class="wp-image-70281" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/10-2-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/10-2-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/10-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/10-2.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>To be honest though, just watching TV of an evening in a super clean home, with a roaring fire having hot chocolate and marshmallows does wonder for your mental well-being. As does lazing away in the lovely garden and smelling the lavender growing there. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-out-amp-about"><strong>OUT &amp; ABOUT</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/17-1000x667.jpg" alt="self catering near Chichester" class="wp-image-70282" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/17-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/17-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/17-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/17.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Around a 40minute walk away is <a href="https://ashlingpark.co.uk/">Ashling Park</a> vineyard where you can reward yourself with a glass of English sparkling after a stroll through the woodlands. There are multiple cycling routes as well as plenty of walks whatever your preference although most lead to  local pubs and you can asks your hosts for tips or consult their very thorough guide. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/6-6-1000x667.jpg" alt="self catering near Chichester" class="wp-image-70283" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/6-6-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/6-6-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/6-6-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/sussex/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2024/09/6-6.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Oh wait, did you want some culture too? Coming right up. Around a 10minute drive away is Chichester where you’ll want catch the latest exhibition at the <a href="https://sussex.muddystilettos.co.uk/travel/uk/arts-culture-things-to-do/art-installation-mars-chichester-cathedral/">cathedral, honouring Mars</a>. For a family day out try the <a href="https://sussex.muddystilettos.co.uk/little-black-book/directory/weald-downland-living-museum-singleton/">Weald and Downland Open Air Living Museum</a> where <em>The Repair Shop </em>is filmed. Although if you’re as much of a beach addict as Muddy, you’ll spend your time at the sandy dunes of West Witterings beach.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-friendly"><strong>DOG-FRIENDLY?</strong></h3>



<p>Yes! You can have two pooches stay with you, they’re just not allowed on the furniture. There’s also a dog washing station at the front of the property. Told you, they really have thought of everything!</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-muddy-verdict"><strong>THE MUDDY VERDICT</strong></h3>



<p><strong>Good for:</strong> Group getaways, family breaks or for a change of scene for the work from home crew. When you know you know. And anyone who wants a stress-free luxury self catered stay.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Not for:</strong> Those who are after fine dining and having a maid come in daily. This is all about luxe privacy. </p>



<p><em><a href="https://www.oakwoodwestholidays.co.uk/large-group-holiday-cottages">Oakwood West Holidays</a>, The Osiers, Clay Ln, West Ashling, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 8DJ</em></p>


Luxury self catering stay near Chichester! Muddy reviews Oakwood West

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