Embers, West Sussex

Set back from the road behind a canopy of trees, Embers reveals itself only to those lucky few who visit. The approach to this remarkable bolthole is shared with the area’s historic manor house, creating a peaceful and private approach.

Passing an 18th century icehouse – a legacy of the original estate – you’ll reach Embers. Built to showcase its breathtaking South Downs views, this architecturally unique timber-clad home has a small environmental footprint but a big sense of place.

For those who appreciate the outdoors, there’s a warm welcome. Pass the large border of shrubs and flowers and climb the timber steps to reach the front door. Just outside, the sweetly scented choisya (look for its bounty of white flowers in spring and late summer) points the way to your private hot tub and outdoor dining area.

Here, it’s all about feeling at home in the surrounding scenery. Inside, the refreshing calm is tempered by a good dose of fun. Book-lined walls, quirky painted doorways and floor-to-ceiling windows all brighten the mood, as well as the space.

With an open-plan sitting, dining and kitchen area, natural light flows like water. Against this backdrop, interesting finds wait at every turn; spaces are styled with historic tapestries, shelves of treasures, and gems from the owner’s carefully curated art collection. When combined with contemporary architecture, elegant antique furniture, and mid-century modern pieces, there’s plenty of scope for the imagination.

The bedrooms – one king, one double, and one double bunk – make a comfortable and homely retreat after an evening stretched out in front of the wood burner (from which the property so aptly takes its name). You’ll also find a generous three bathrooms, comprising two showers and a bath, and a handy boot room for storing wellies and coats. For cooks, there’s a well-kitted kitchen with all you need, including a full-height wine cooler. And, to fuel that show-stopping wood burner, the owner even provides her own handmade charcoal.

Whatever the season, outside time is a pleasure. Embers’ safely enclosed lawn wraps right around the back of the property, forming a versatile area for adults, children and pets alike. Stunning views, a double pond and the outdoor hot tub all make this a prime location for embracing the calm with early morning yoga or an evening sundowner.

Notes of birdsong add to the prevailing sense of peace, but you’re closer to civilisation than you think. Beyond the surrounding farmland, it’s not far to the local pub (three of them, in fact), while the Goodwood Estate is less than ten minutes away by car, making this a fantastic countryside retreat for family adventures.