Benchwood House - (Visit England Five Star and Gold Awards) - 2 Bedroom (Sleeps 4) Cottage in Hastings
Benchwood House is the only VisitEngland independently accredited, five-star and gold luxury, self-catering accommodation in Hastings, in the High Weald AONB, near the towns of Winchelsea, and Rye.
Book with the owner direct
Owner/Property
Manager: Karen La Borde Bowman
Book this Cottage by contacting the owner
directly to confirm
price, property details and availability.
Booking directly with the owner means you pay the owners price with
no added booking fees or extra charges.
Overview
Description
ABOUT BENCHWOOD HOUSEWelcome to Benchwood House.
Please visit our website to discover our latest spring and summer offers and explore the property’s features and amenities in more detail.
Visit England Five Star Self-Catering and Gold Awards
Quality in Tourism ‘GREAT 4 DARK SKY WATCHERS’ award (2024/2025)
Please check out our official listing on the VisitEngland website link below.
https://visitenglandassessmentservices.com/search-results/?search_feed_location=Hastings%2C+East+Sussex&search_feed_type=SCA
ROOTED IN NATURE, SHAPED BY HISTORY, CRAFTED FOR COMFORT
Benchwood House is the only VisitEngland independently accredited, five star and gold luxury self catering accommodation, nestled in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty within the Hastings district.
Located in the quaint village of Guestling it offers a rare blend of seclusion, comfort, and connection to some of East Sussex’s most treasured landscapes, from Winchelsea and Rye to the golden sands of Camber.
Once a working stable block, the building has been thoughtfully transformed into a bespoke two storey home with two bedrooms, where contemporary design meets the warmth and character of its rural past.
Every detail has been shaped to create a space that feels calm, restorative, and deeply connected to its surroundings.
Nestled within an ancient woodland clearing, Benchwood House is enveloped by birdsong, wildlife, and unspoilt panoramic countryside views.
The house overlooks an 18th century pond once used for iron ore mining now a haven for nature and a defining feature of the landscape.
It offers a premium base for coast, culture, and cuisine, with easy access to beaches, historic towns, Michelin recognised restaurants, and the Rother Wine Triangle.
Whether you visit to explore or to relax, the setting provides a unique balance of natural beauty and high quality accommodation.
Eight beaches are within easy reach, including the quiet shores of Pett Level and Winchelsea, just 4.3 miles away, perfect for coastal walks, sea air, and wide open horizons.
A HOME WITH WARMTH, COMFORT AND CHARM
Benchwood House welcomes every kind of traveller.
Solo guests seeking reflection, couples looking for privacy, families and friends creating memories, or those on a workcation will find a space that feels both inspiring and deeply comfortable.
Nature lovers will appreciate the wildlife that moves through the woodland. Adventurers will enjoy the trails and coastline.
And for astrophiles, the night sky offers a rare clarity, recognised with the GREAT 4 DARK SKY WATCHERS 2024–2025 Quality in Tourism award.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
The surrounding area offers something for every interest.
Rye’s medieval streets, historic inns, and galleries invite slow exploration, while Hastings offers its Old Town, coastal walks, and cultural landmarks.
Heritage enthusiasts can discover National Trust sites across the region.
Nature lovers can wander Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, Hastings Country Park, Alexandra Park, or the woodland trails that weave through the High Weald.
Food and wine enthusiasts can explore award winning vineyards in the Rother Wine Triangle and enjoy Michelin listed restaurants, cosy pubs, and cafés.
THE PERFECT BASE FOR EXPLORATION
Benchwood House is an ideal base for discovering the High Weald AONB, embracing new adventures, and creating lasting memories.
Its woodland setting, modern comforts, and proximity to beaches, historic towns, and exceptional dining ensure a stay that feels both enriching and restorative.
Visit our website to discover more about Benchwood House and the many wonders of the High Weald right on our doorstep.
️ NEED TO KNOW
You will find the essential details below to ensure your stay at Benchwood House is relaxed and comfortable.
We kindly ask all guests to read this section before arrival, as it includes important policies and safety guidance.
Refreshments
Complimentary refreshments are provided on arrival. We will ask about any food allergies or intolerances after you have booked.
Services
We provide complimentary EE superfast broadband and 4G mobile coverage
Osprey Network EV chargers are located 3.2 miles away.
️ Bedrooms
Our two beautifully appointed bedrooms offer exceptional comfort.
One features a super king size bed (180cm x200cm) and the other a king size bed (150cmx200cm).
If a good night’s sleep matters to you, you’ll be pleased to know that our beds feature 1,000 pocket spring mattresses with silk pillow tops.
All bed linen is 100% cotton and carries Royal Warrants of Appointment.
Each bedroom has double aspect Velux windows with blinds, and uninterrupted breathtaking southern views over the High Weald AONB panoramic open countryside.
The bedroom are furnished with dressing tables, floor length and makeup mirrors, hairdryers, luggage racks, push style, wall-mounted adjustable reading lamps, USB sockets, ambient lighting, comfortable seating, and storage for clothing in both rooms.
The iron and wall mounted ironing board are located in the master bedroom, which also has a lounge sofa for quiet reading.
Bathroom
A Jack and Jill en suite spa bathroom features a rainfall shower over a Whirlpool bath, double basin vanity unit, LED Bluetooth hands free sensor mirror with razor socket, heated towel rails, and a full selection of linens and toiletries.
Bathrobes, slippers, towels, and bathroom essentials are provided for your stay.
Kitchen
The kitchen is fully equipped with gas hob, electric oven, Hob2Hood extractor, microwave, kettle, espresso machine and complimentary pods, 4 slice toaster, smokeless electric griddle/sandwich maker, dishwasher, and under counter fridge/freezer.
We also provide complimentary dishwashing tablets and general cleaning products, towels and oven gloves.
Cloakroom
There is a ground floor cloakroom with LED mirror, shaver socket, washstand, basin, and WC.
Laundry
The utility room with washer/dryer, has a clothes horse, laundry basket, pegs, and complimentary laundry cleaning products.
Heating
There is underfloor heating on the ground floor, radiators upstairs, thermostatic controls throughout, heated towel rails in the master bathroom, and a wood burner stove in the living room with complimentary logs and fire starters.
Indoor Entertainment
There is a Smart TV with subscription apps (including Netflix), DVD player, and rainy day games.
Outdoor Entertainment
There is an enclosed garden in woodlands, tables and benches, tree deck, swing seat, fire pits (logs included), charcoal BBQ station, and a fully equipped woodland cabin.
️ Pubs, Restaurants & Beaches
There are many pubs and restaurants and the closest ones are just 1.9 miles away.
Eight beaches are nearby, including Pett Level and Winchelsea (10 minutes).
Pelham Beach (Hastings) holds a Seaside Award; Marina Beach (St Leonards) holds both a Blue Flag and Seaside Award (2026).
Camber Sands is under 11 miles away and renowned for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Please check out our website to discover more about our local pubs, beaches, and restaurants.
Parking
We provide free, private, gated, on site parking for two cars.
Bicycle Rack
There is a sheltered bicycle area with four slot floor rack.
️ Seaside Items
We provide beach towels, chairs, a picnic hamper, and a mini table for days out on the coast.
General
Smoking and vaping are not permitted indoors.
For safety reasons, EV charging from the property sockets is prohibited; the nearest chargers (Osprey Network) are 8 minutes away.
Your property access file will be sent upon booking confirmation.
We have waived the £200 accidental damage deposit to help offset national rising costs.
We simply ask that you treat Benchwood House with the same care as your own home.
Guests are responsible for any damage beyond reasonable wear and tear.
Occupancy
Check in is from 4 pm; departure is by 10 am.
Number of Guests
The maximum number of guests is four.
Overnight accommodation is for the guests included in your booking.
If you realise you’ve miscounted and wish to add someone, we’re happy to help, as long as the total number is four and the change aligns with our terms and conditions.
Age Limit
The minimum age is ten years.
Risk assessment of the pond, woodland, and tree platform identified safety concerns for younger children.
Visitors & Gatherings
Visitors are welcome with prior agreement. Children under ten cannot accompany visiting adults. No parties during standard stays, but small pre arranged celebrations can be discussed.
All visitors must be made aware of fire safety procedures.
Pets
Regrettably we are unable to accommodate pets.
Nut Allergy
The woodlands contain many hazel trees. Benchwood House may not be suitable for guests with nut allergies.
Location Notes & Practicalities
Benchwood House is highly insulated (EPC B) with triple glazing, ensuring a quiet and comfortable indoor environment.
Situated just off the A259 between Hastings and Rye, the main coastal route, passing traffic will be heard outdoors during peak times, as is typical for properties along this stretch.
Despite this, our setting benefits from clean, fresh, country air, and is less congested than the high traffic, pollution prone areas of the more crowded coastal hotspots.
And unlike many nearby locations where parking is paid or restricted, our guests benefit from complimentary private on site parking, making your stay both effortless and peaceful.
Seasonal variations appear in our photos, and the house is decorated for Christmas.
Because of the spiral staircase, flexible luggage such as holdalls is recommended.
Benchwood House is a gated private property set over 100 metres from our home within the same three acre grounds.
Bedroom Details
Bedroom 1
1 x Super King Bed
180cm x 200cm
Bedroom 2
1 x King Bed
150cm x 200cm
6 Reviews
Idyllic Retreat
By Victoria on 16-Feb-2026We had a wonderful stay at Benchwood House – a beautifully converted stable block nestled in ancient woodland with stunning countryside views. The setting is idyllic and truly relaxing. Our hosts, were incredibly welcoming and had thought of absolutely everything we might need. Benchwood house is immaculate and Karen and Chris have made a real effort to keep it this way. We regularly go on self catering trips around the UK and can honestly say the extra touches made us feel really special. There’s plenty to see and do in the surrounding area, whether you want to explore nature, visit local attractions, or simply unwind. We’re already looking forward to returning – highly recommended for anyone seeking seclusion, charm, and genuine hospitality!
A relaxing and indulgent few days
By Harriet on 14-Nov-2025I enjoyed a five day stay at Benchwood House. The whole cottage felt luxurious and the attention to detail was second to none - a lovely welcome basket of local produce was a generous and thoughtful touch. The view of The Weald from the main window was a particular favourite - sitting in the window seat reading a good book was a real treat. Karen was an attentive host who also respected the privacy of her guest. When I left the cottage, I forgot to pack a skirt and blouse; Karen very kindly packed and posted the items to me - an exceptional level of customer service. I had a wonderful and relaxing time at Benchwood House- I would advise that the narrow spiral staircase is not suitable for people with mobility issues.
Fantastic Woodland Retreat
By Martyn A on 20-Sep-2025We received a lovely welcome from our hosts, Karen & Chris, together with a welcome basket of ‘goodies’ which were much appreciated. Benchwood House was tastefully decorated and with quality furnishings provided us with a very comfortable and relaxing short break. The hosts thought of every small detail and provided us with everything we required, from a well equipped kitchen and a host of useful items not normally included when renting. Unfortunately the weather was not kind to us, so we could not take advantage of the many useful outdoor areas at the property. A beautiful woodland retreat, which we hope to enjoy again in the better weather.
5 Star Luxury Accommodation
By Stuart B on 06-Sep-2025Everything about Benchwood House was above and beyond our expectations. Karen and Chris, the owners, were very welcoming, friendly and helpful and the welcome pack was incredible. The views from the house are beautiful, the quality of the furnishings and utensils/equipment is exceptional and the outdoor spaces are amazing. Plenty of great places to visit for walks, days out etc.. but you might find you don't even want to leave!
5 stars: Idyllic stay at Benchwood House
By Diana on 20-Jun-2025We stayed at Benchwood House in May and were absolutely blown away by the experience. The property is set in an idyllic location—peaceful, scenic, and the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. From the moment we arrived, we were struck by the fabulous decor: stylish, warm, and thoughtfully put together, giving the house a luxurious yet homely feel. The cleanliness was nothing short of impeccable—honestly, you’d struggle to find a speck of dust anywhere (I tried!). It’s clear that Karen and Chris take great pride in the property, and it shows in every detail. Speaking of Karen and Chris, they were the perfect hosts: welcoming, professional, and genuinely friendly. Their thoughtful welcome package was a lovely touch and made us feel instantly at home. The stairs was a challenge but it made the stay even more interesting. Benchwood House is a true gem, and we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it. We’re already dreaming of our next visit.
Beyond expactations
By Bianca - Holland on 05-May-2025Both inside and outside this accommodation is magnificent. The interior is great with the absolute highlight being the large window with a view of the valley. The spiral staircase can be a bit challenging. Outside there is a lot of space, beautiful nature and many terraces. This largely compensates for the noise from the road that can be heard. The location is central and you can go in all directions for excursions. The reception is more than hospitable with a tour of the house and a complete assortment of local delicacies. In all respects this accommodation is above all expectations and we heartily recommend it.