Foxlink, West Sussex

Built in 1870, Foxlink is a historic gamekeeper’s cottage, once part of West Sussex’s Slinfold Estate. With origins like these, its setting is impressively idyllic – surrounding the cottage are 60 acres of woodland, as well as a walled rose garden and wildflower-rich meadows.

This fantastic location makes the property feel like a true escape to nature. Its elegant interior means it’s worlds away from the classic fairytale cottage in the woods, but its story nevertheless fits; Foxlink lay sleeping for fifty years until discovered by its current owner. Now reawakened, it’s been given a new lease of life with luxurious touches and extensive home comforts.

As you arrive, you’ll step through a glass entrance hall, which links the older cottage to its newer extension. These areas flow seamlessly, with neutral walls throughout, accented by colourful fabrics and soft furnishings. This is a property that’s rich in character: collected books, objects, artworks, and even a stained glass window of Madame Butterfly (sourced in Mallorca) evoke a love of travel and inspire the sense that these are walls to relax within.

By adding a sympathetic extension, the owner has created a more spacious experience for group stays: the property comfortably sleeps seven across four bedrooms. The extension’s master suite has a king-sized bed and the luxury of an in-bedroom bath and separate shower room, as well as a further washroom with toilet. The historic cottage features another king-sized bed, a single room, and a second king with its own en-suite wet room. You’ll also find a first-floor family bathroom and a charming downstairs cloakroom with beautiful Trompe l’Oeil wallpaper.

And what of those home comforts? As you slip off your shoes at the end of the day, you’ll discover the pleasure of under-floor heating extending across the ground floor. The airy, open-plan kitchen has an Aga and an oven, with an open fire adding cosiness on crisp days. The reception room has another open fire, while the snug – or ‘blue room’ – is where quiet reigns. With books and magazines to hand, it’s a sumptuous space in which to read, or perhaps to snuggle down with a film.

But if the outdoors beckons, do answer the call. In fact, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Foxlink has simply sprung up in nature. So, while you’re here, take time to bask in this incredibly special woodland setting – if you’re seeking peace, you’ll find it at every turn.

To the side of the cottage, a walled rose garden makes the perfect spot for a slow cup of tea, while meadows to the back come alive with wildflowers in the summer. From April to November, feel the restorative effects of the plunge pool – guaranteed to begin or end any day with an endorphin boost. Or, as the sun sets, head to the pond, watch the moorhens, and soak in the bliss of your very own country hideaway.

With features like these, Foxlink is best suited to adults and older children (aged twelve years and over). If you’d like to stay with younger children or dogs, we have some fantastic family friendly boltholes in our collection, so do browse by location or get in touch if you’d like our help finding the right property.