A gloriously secluded Shepherds Hut close to Lewes

Orchard Hut is a secluded and very private shepherd's hut fitted to a high standard, and situated in a gloriously peaceful meadow setting away from any road noise. The meadow is rich in wildlife and there are views to the South Downs that can be enjoyed from the hammock or the wood fired hot tub.The hut sits just outside the South Downs National Park, 3 miles from Lewes and 5 miles to Glyndebourne. There is direct access to a myriad of public footpaths with a good choice of stunning walks. The space The location is very rural and Orchard Hut is accessed by driving down a 200 meter track (from our driveway). This track is actually a disused portion of the Bluebell Railway closed in the 1950’s. The hut is just a 50 meter walk across the meadow from the small car parking area at the end of the track. You will be provided with a luggage cart for your bags. Quite a few of our guests opt for a car free weekend by getting a train from London to Lewes (1hr 10mins) and then walking to Orchard Hut along the River Ouse (the walk is 1hr 15mins) carrying what they need for their weekend in a back pack! Or put your bike on the train and get off at Cooksbridge, and it’s a 20 minute bike ride along a pretty lane to Orchard Hut., and there are loads of lovely local bike rides from the hut. Orchard Hut has mains hot and cold water and full electrics. There is a power shower, and there is also a wood fired two person hot tub which is available should you wish to use it (£40 for a 2 night stay). Outside there is a hammock and fire bowl. The kitchen is well equipped with everything you would expect. There is an electric induction hob, fridge, Nespresso machine, milk frother, kettle and toaster. Guest access Guests can drive and park within 50m of the hut. The meadow is totally private and is at guests disposal to lounge in the hammock or in the wood fired hot tub (the hot tub is charged at £40 for a 2 or 3 night stay). Check in and check out are normally at 3pm and 11am, although we’ll always try to accommodate earlier check in or later check out if a guest requests it and if it is possible. Other things to note Orchard Hut is positioned within its own private meadow and orchard (ie there are no other huts in the same meadow). Sheep are not guaranteed unfortunately!!!!!!! The hut is easily reached by public transport from London or Brighton for a car free weekend. A number of our guests have taken the train to Lewes (1hr from London) and then walked or cycled to Orchard Hut from Lewes Town Centre along the Ouse Valley Way. The walk follows the river Ouse and through the hamlet of Hamsey). This walk takes 1hr 30mins. We can forward detailed instructions on request. The pathway along the Ouse is great for gravel bikes or touring bikes or mountain bikes - but not really suited for road bikes (there is 400m stretch that is bumpy track). You are self contained in the hut for breakfast. We leave fresh bread, butter, jam, granola and porridge oats (two day supply), fresh Nespresso coffee pods, tea bags and either fresh milk or oat/soya (if you prefer). There is a toaster, small under counter fridge and Nespresso coffee machine and milk frother. There is also coffee cafetière in case you want to bring your own coffee. There is an induction hob (two hobs) - but no oven. Many guests opt to cook over the fire pit using the grill and utensils provided. Orchard Hut does not have WiFi - but there is good network coverage. Outside there is a wood fired hot tub (charged extra at £40.00 per 2 or 3 night stay which includes wood). We’d be happy to pre-light the hot tub should you wish, so it’s ready for your arrival. During the months of May and June, the meadow is home to two pairs of Nightingales - and it’s magical to lie in the hot tub and listen to their song.