Appletree Cottage is a conversion of two 19th century farmers' cottages, retains many original features, and once belonged to the grandfather of the author, Elizabeth Jane Howard. You will receive a warm, friendly welcome when you arrive at this traditional B&B between the villages of Staplecross and Cripps Corner, and will be able to relax and unwind with complimentary afternoon tea and home made cakes or evening drink. Jane and Hugh are both keen gardeners and historians and have a wealth of knowledge of the local environment, as well as being passionate about preserving and caring for this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Appletree Cottage is set in an attractive, peaceful hilltop position with superb views over farmland in the High Weald. The property consists of an extensive garden (where guests can enjoy afternoon tea or an evening drink in the warmer months), a field, orchard and ancient woodland - an important source of iron ore during the Roman times, resulting in the creation of several ponds and now the habitat of water fowl and other aquatic species.
Visitors are encouraged to walk and cycle from Appletree Cottage and the owners are keen to share their love and knowledge of this beautiful part of Sussex. Beacon Lane, a sunken routeway once used for droving livestock can lead to various short walks and some long distance footpaths too.
Being part of a local community is important to the owners who use local products and encourage visitors not only to buy locally but to use local amenities such as pubs and shops. Keen gardeners they use their own organically grown fruit and vegetables not only for eating but for preserves too. They keep free range chickens and rare breed sheep and their beautiful garden is full of habitats that encourage wildlife such as birdboxes for birds, beehives in the orchards and refuges for bats.
Enquire about booking a stay at Appletree Cottage