“Lucy and Graham have renovated Wayside Byre with the same creativity and care that they bring to their garden. We really enjoyed staying in such a beautiful and peaceful place, seeing the garden at different times of day with the changes of light and colour, and the distant view of the South Downs. Even in wet weather you can look out through the big windows and feel as though you’re still sitting in the garden.” Guests, Cornelius and Anne (Summer 2020)
The ideal place for garden lovers to settle! Wayside Byre nestles into the gentle curves of the South Downs, it faces west in a quiet and independent part of the beautiful and renowned Marchants Garden which it overlooks.
CLICK HERE to see Press Review – Enticing Holiday Lets in Renowned Gardens.
The original oak framed building, some 200 years old, has recently been sensitively converted to provide a unique blend of old and new, the style having been influenced by the beauty of the original exposed oak beams which form the inner shell of the building.
Situated close to many Sussex and Kent cultural and garden hot spots, Wayside Byre is perfectly located for garden lovers, culture vultures, wine connoisseurs and walkers. Ideal too as a personal retreat, especially in the winter months, where its peaceful location can be truly valued and enjoyed.
On site is the highly regarded Marchants Nursery, where it is possible to purchase many of the plants seen in the gardens.
Reviews:
“What a beautiful place to stay – a lovely byre and one of the most glorious gardens ever, far exceeding any of those we visited. We walked the Downs, visited stately homes and went to see Tristan and Isolde at Glyndebourne. As our first major cultural event since being at Glyndebourne on March 2019, it was truly memorable. Thank you so much for our stay.” John & Bernadette (Aug 2021)
“Having seen the Wayside Byre take shape over the last 5 years or so, it was great to be able to finally stay here. It has been everything that we might have hoped. The accommodation is well designed and very comfortable. The next time we hope to take advantage of the wood-burner, which looks as if it would make the living space very cosy. It has been a terrific jumping off place for Glyndebourne and our favourite places in Sussex. Even the weather was kind when it mattered with a glorious evening for our picnic in the interval of Luisa Miller. Thank you both.” Alex & Jane (Sept 2021)
“We’ve had a wonderfully relaxed week at the Byre, enjoying the every-changing effects of light and shade in your garden. Many thanks for your hospitality and all best wishes.” Robert & John (Oct 2021)
Situated in the charming village of Laughton, and ideally located to explore the countryside and shoreline of East Sussex, and beyond towards Kent.
CLICK HERE for printable map and directions
Interesting towns abound. Nearest is the historic and architecturally rich town of Lewes (6m) where there are good eateries. On the coast Eastbourne (11m) boasts sunshine and beaches. Westward lies the cliff chain of the ‘Seven Sisters’ terminating in the chalk mass of Beachy Head, an icon recognised the world over. The bustling City of Brighton & Hove, ½ hour away, offers livelier cosmopolitan entertainment.
For plant lovers there are many fine gardens to explore, the most renowned of these being Sissinghurst Castle and Great Dixter, both visitable in a day. Just a little bit further is Doddington Place Gardens, 10 acres of impressive landscaped gardens. Also visit Charleston Farmhouse (4m), home to a successful Literary Festival and newer Garden Festival, among other highlights.
Opera lovers will be enticed by renowned Glyndebourne Opera House (3m), its summer season (May-September) hosting 5 or more innovative productions. If you like to wash your Opera down with good Champagne, award winning ‘Breaky Bottom Vineyard’ (10m) is set in the Ouse Valley, and the younger venture of ‘Rathfinny Wine Estate’ (6m) with its excellent wine, visitor centre and good food should suit.
Add to the above superb walking, swimming, sailing, fishing, paragliding, serious art galleries, etc you will discover East Sussex has much to offer.
There are excellent farmer’s markets in Lewes (Friday) and Hailsham (second Saturday in the month), and the Laughton and Ripe village shops are invaluable treasures, well supplied with locally sourced foodstuffs, and boasting very friendly service. Waitrose and Tesco are a short drive away in Lewes. Enjoy a basket of seasonal produce from Graham’s organic vegetable garden when available.
