Glorious South Downs cottage with riverside views

Beautiful South Downs Cottage by the river

If you’re looking for a rural retreat, Riverbank Cottage might be seen as the ultimate South Downs cottage for holidays and adventures, set in delightful Alfriston.

Maybe you’re a keen walker, tempted by the South Downs Way, have been lured on a pilgrimage to the Bloomsbury Set’s Charleston, fancy a full wine-immersion in the nearby Rathfinny, Breaky Bottom and Hidden Spring vineyards or have been drawn by the opera at Glyndebourne.

Who can stomach a city break even in these (hopefully) post-Covid times, with all their crowds and noise and frankly claustrophobic feel? Head, instead, for the bucolic bliss of rolling hills, big skies and a slice of country life and yet less than a couple of hours from London.

Nestled by the banks of the Cuckmere River at the foot of the South Downs and literally on the South Downs Way within the South Downs National Park, the property is set in Alfriston village which offers all the traditional charm of a bygone era with narrow twisting roads and medieval style cottages.

This South Downs cottage provides bags of space for up to six people with a private garden and terrace overlooking the river and surrounding fields (have I mentioned that you have sheep for neighbours?).

You would enjoy the rather majestic country kitchen-diner, with the warmth of natural wood and the crisp finish of granite worktops and the delights of a double butler sink. There is a whole range of appliances including oven, grill, dishwasher, washer-dryer, fridge, freezer, gas hob, kettle, Nespresso coffee machine, microwave and toaster, plus pots, pans and utensils.

There is a grand, expandable table to seat up to 10 and acres of kitchen surface space for entertaining and meal preparation, with all the facilities you’ll need for a self catering holiday home.

The spacious lounge offers stripped wood flooring and inspiring views of the countryside over your private terrace and provides two snazzy, but comfortable sofas and a comfy chair in the prime spot by the patio doors alongside the terrace. For those cosy evenings and added ambience there is a living flame electric fire.

There is a large Smart TV to crash in front of after all your adventures with some board games to keep the family entertained and engaged. Well, off-screen for maybe a little while at least. There are also Smart TVs in the dining area and master bedroom so nobody has to miss their favourite shows.

Upstairs, you find three comfortable bedrooms – the master bedroom has a zip-and-link bed so can be set up as either a kingsize or a twin, and boasts an ensuite shower room. The second bedroom also has a zip-and-link bed, and the third bedroom is fixed as a double bed. Since there are up to five separate beds, this South Downs cottage has flexibility to work very well for extended families and friends looking to holiday together but not too intimately 🙂

The family bathroom is frankly an inspiration in itself (it feels as though I have lived in smaller studios) with two sinks and a bidet which the Europeans and Americans amongst us will enjoy. There is a large bath with shower attachment.

There is also a downstairs cloakroom so no need for morning queues.

There are three sets of table and chairs for outside relaxation, entertainment and enjoyment, including on the large terrace overlooking the beautiful green pastures and riverbanks.

Parking is off-street for up to two cars on the gravel driveway.

Smoking is not permitted. Minimum age of lead guest is 30+.

There is a week-long minimum stay and bookings run from Friday to Friday in peak season, although flexible arrival days and short breaks may be possible out of season.

Dogs are considered on a selective basis and, if approved, a supplement will apply. Please contact Exclusively Eastbourne to discuss your pet if you wish to bring them. Any pet given permission to come must not be allowed on the beds or furniture or left in the property alone. They must only use a pet bed and pet bowls that you bring with you. You will be expected to clean up after your pet and are liable for any damage it causes. Please bring a separate towel for your dog to wipe muddy / sandy paws before entering the cottage.

Costs include the weekly rent, a £30 booking fee and a returnable £500 security deposit. To book requires an immediate, non-refundable deposit of £200 per week booked (booking fee and a portion of the rent) and then the balance, including the security deposit, is due by no later than six weeks before your arrival. For stays of three weeks or more, you may be asked to pay a higher security deposit. The security deposit will be returned to you within 1-2 weeks of your departure, minus any deduction for damage, loss or excessive cleaning required.