The Walled Garden: Cosy 3-Bed Alfriston Cottage

Experience Alfriston at Little Dene, a Grade II listed home just 20m from the village centre. Step out to historic pubs, tea shops and galleries, or explore the South Downs, Seven Sisters & coast. Perfectly set off the High Street, this retreat features a private flint- walled garden with espalier apple trees, roses, passion fruit, and a built-in BBQ for alfresco dining. Includes two parking permits in the adjacent car park . Ideal for families and friends to experience country life at its best. The space This historic Grade II listed residence blends period character with modern comfort. Sleeping Arrangements The house sleeps six across three bedrooms: • One king-size bed on the ground floor • One super-king bed upstairs • One low small double bed upstairs A Bugaboo travel cot is available on request, supplied with a fitted sheet only. Please bring your baby’s own bedding. Please note: the bedroom fireplaces are decorative only and must not be used. Guests are welcome to use the Morso wood burner in the lounge. Bathrooms The upstairs family bathroom has a bath, separate shower, WC and washbasin. Downstairs, a convenient wet room just off the kitchen includes a shower, WC and small basin. The Lounge In winter, return from a bracing countryside walk and settle beside the crackling Morso wood burner with a hot chocolate or a glass of brandy. In summer, open the sliding doors and bifold window to bring the garden into the lounge, with a gentle breeze drifting through. Wander out onto the patio for leisurely alfresco meals surrounded by roses, passion flowers and apple trees. Kitchen & Utility A fully equipped kitchen and separate utility room provide all the essentials for a comfortable stay. An Enchanting Flint-Walled Garden The hidden gem of Little Dene is its enchanting enclosed garden, framed by traditional flint walls. Opening the gate feels like stepping into The Secret Garden—a private oasis featuring: Fruit & Flowers Espalier apple trees, fragrant roses, lavender, figs, apricots, olives and passion fruit. Outdoor Dining A large teak dining table comfortably seats six, with a parasol providing shade—the perfect spot for leisurely breakfasts, long lunches and relaxed evening meals. BBQ Area The side patio has a built-in barbecue, perfect for long summer evenings—or, for the brave, a winter barbecue in the fresh Sussex air. A freestanding Weber barbecue is also available if you prefer to cook in the main garden. Guest access Guests have exclusive use of the house and enclosed garden—make yourselves at home and enjoy your own little corner of Alfriston. As a historic Grade II listed home, Little Dene has stairs and changes in floor level. If mobility is a consideration, I’m happy to talk you through the layout before you book. To keep things peaceful for our neighbours, the house and garden are reserved for guests included in the booking. Other things to note Exploring the Area: Nature, Culture, and Coastal Charm Location & Parking Little Dene is perfectly positioned on North Street, the main road leading into the heart of Alfriston. This central location means the village's charming shops, cafes and pubs are all just a short stroll away. North Street can be busy during the day, so please bear this in mind when booking. A real bonus is the adjacent Dene car park. We provide two parking permits to use throughout your stay, with convenient access through the garden gate. Walking & Nature The South Downs Way: Accessible from the village, this National Trail offers sweeping views and beautiful walks along chalk ridges. Explore the surrounding countryside and look out for the iconic Long Man of Wilmington, a mysterious hill figure carved into the chalk. Orchid Spotting (May & June): Late spring is magical in the Downs. Head to Cradle Hill or the chalk grasslands of Friston Forest to spot rare wild orchids, including the Common Spotted, Bee, and Pyramidal varieties. Cuckmere Valley: Follow the meandering River Cuckmere from Alfriston down to Cuckmere Haven. It is one of the most photographed landscapes in the UK, where the river meets the sea against the backdrop of the white cliffs. Coastline & Family Fun Seaford & The Seven Sisters: Visit Seaford Head for the ultimate view of the Seven Sisters cliffs. The coastline here offers dramatic cliff-top paths and a quieter, more authentic seaside experience. Drusillas Park: Located just a 5-minute drive away, this is widely regarded as the best small zoo in the country—a great day out for young children. Culture & Heritage Glyndebourne: Little Dene makes a lovely base for a visit to this world-renowned opera house. Charleston: The former home of Bloomsbury Group artists Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant. It’s a hub of creativity, hosting the famous Charleston Festival featuring world-renowned writers and thinkers. Check Charleston's programme for exhibitions, talks and festivals during your stay. Berwick Church: Enjoy a walk across the fields or along the old coach road to admire the remarkable Bloomsbury paintings at Berwick Church. The Clergy House: This charming Medieval house was the first building bought by the National Trust, for just £10 in 1896. Lullington Church: Discover the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd, one of England's smallest churches, seating just 20 people. Food, Wine & beer The Star, Alfriston: Recently transformed by the Polizzi family, this 15th-century inn is now a beacon of style and gastronomy. It’s the perfect spot for a refined lunch or a cocktail in the courtyard. Vineyards: You are in the heart of English Wine Country. Rathfinny Wine Estate is within walking distance, offering tours, tastings, and a "cellar door" where you can sample world-class Sussex sparkling wine. Long Man Brewery, Litlington: Enjoy a walk along the river to purchase locally brewed craft beers. Picnic supplies: pick up essentials at the village store, or head to Middle Farm for delicious picnic treats and a selection of ciders- perfect for a countryside outing or leisurely lunch in the garden. When you've done all of that, head to any of the incredible traditional pubs in the village for real ale and a fire. Getting Around The Bus Service: You don't need a car to explore. The Cuckmere Buses (including the 26 and the 39 "Sussex Arts Shuttle") provide a hop-on hop-off service connecting Alfriston to Seaford, Eastbourne, Charleston, and the Seven Sisters Country Park. Village Life: Spend your afternoon browsing Much Ado Books, the village's famous independent bookshop, discovering antiques, and trying on beautiful vintage jewellery and clothes at, 'The Dressing room', perfect for Glyndebourne attire. Finish of with tea and cake in one of the village's traditional tea rooms. I'm always happy to help with walking routes, local recommendations and ideas to make the most of your stay. If your'e travelling with children, let me know their ages. I have plenty of favourite family days out to recommend too.