Figgy Court

Introduction

Approached via a winding path and etched upon a sylvan backdrop, this old grain store once served the mill next door but has undergone a sensitive restoration to offer luxury self-catering escapes for two. Rustic and warm by nature, Figgy Court has character bursting right through its double-height ceilings. Windows frame picture-perfect views over water meadows to one side and the old mill to the other (which can accommodate the extended family). Cradled by 600-square miles of rolling chalk downs, the surrounding National Park promises as much adventure as it does beauty - as Virginia Woolf once described it: "too much for one pair of eyes, enough to float a whole population in happiness."

Inside

Ancient artistry shines through every time-worn feature of this luxury West Sussex barn. Original oak beams frame the open plan living space, like treacle tart latticed over ice-cream coloured walls and pillowed limestone floors keep up the weathered country character. A TV hides in a cleverly designed cupboard and a contemporary kitchen hints at the recent renovation. Accessed via a twisting hand-built staircase, the mezzanine bedroom is suspended over the living area and flaunts a king-size bed dressed in 600-thread count linen. After slow mornings entwined in the sheets with pile of Sunday papers, the luxury walk-in shower is sure to invigorate the weariest of souls.

Outside

The grounds are an Arcadia of classical country house style, from the babylon willows to perfectly pruned topiary. In the potted courtyard, a French dining set on a herringbone floor marks an idyllic spot for a coffee. Listen for the kingfisher's whistle calling from the riverbank and trace the flight of house martins as they swoop at dusk. Beyond the garden, the celebrated Sussex wine country beckons: while away an afternoon sampling world-renowned English sparkling at Nyetimber, sharing seasonal small plates at Kinsbrook, or touring Nutbourne’s sun-drenched estate. Return to your private slice of the water's edge, legs dangling in the river, for a game of cards paired with a bottle of local fizz.

• PricingFrom £1,350 per week, £1,050 per short break
• FeaturesHot tub
• PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome
  Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof
• FamilyBabes-in-arms are welcome
• PracticalitiesThe open plan contemporary kitchen is fitted with integrated appliances including an electric cooker with induction hob, microwave, Nespresso machine, toaster, kettle and fridge-freezer. Whilst there is no washing machine, the owner can arrange laundry for those who would like it. Due to the age of the building, please be aware there are areas of the property with lower ceilings. There is private off-road parking for two cars and a public footpath that runs between this property and the next. There are neighbouring properties that are sometimes frequented by their owners, but Figgy Court does not feel overlooked. There may be members of staff on-site to tend to the gardens but they will not disturb your stay. Due to the rural location, there is very limited mobile signal. If arriving by air, helicopters are welcome to land nearby
• Private cateringWhether you're looking for a fully catered stay or a one-off meal for a special occasion, discover your bespoke catering options
  
  Explore private dining

Billingshurst

Once a winter foraging site, Billingshurst is brimming with history. Flint tools found in the area are believed to date back to Saxon times and the village comes with an intriguing list of traditions. Today though, this charming West Sussex settlement enjoys a more tranquil scene.

View property location Destination guide

Getting there

• On the map Figgy Court is located near sits near the charming village of Billingshurst, within close reach of the South Downs National Park.
• By car Central London is under two hours drive from Figgy Court, and about an hour from south coastal towns including Worthing and Brighton.
• By train The journey time to nearby Billingshurst from London Victoria is just over an hour, with trains running approximately every 30 minutes, followed by a ten-minute taxi to the barn.
• By air Gatwick Airport is approximately 30 minutes by car, while Heathrow Airport is around an hour away, both with taxis and car hire easily available. Helicopters are welcome to land nearby.