Alte Forge Lane, Horney Common, Uckfield, Ost Sussex

Situated in an elevated position on a rural lane within the boundary of Ashdown Forest, High Bank Cottage is a beautifully presented home, believed to date from the early 1800s, with later carefully considered additions. Its front elevation is typical of the era, with wisteria-clad red brickwork beneath a tiled roof and a centrally placed front door sheltered by a canopy.

Period details include exposed beams in the original part of the house and a handsome working inglenook fireplace fitted with a wood burner, while contemporary comforts include double glazing throughout and underfloor heating in the kitchen and radiators, heat pump/air conditioning in the conservatory. Full multipoint central heating system and hot water system. To the rear, the principal rooms enjoy an open aspect across the gardens and onward to rolling countryside, lending the house a rural feel.

The full layout is shown on the floor plans, with many features worthy of special mention. The front door opens directly into the inviting drawing room, where the inglenook fireplace provides a warm focal point; its 26ft length means it can also accommodate a dining table, making it an ideal space for entertaining. It is open to a study/gym, which has wood flooring and leads in turn to the conservatory.

The sitting room offers a cosy retreat, partially tongue and groove panelled and centred around a further wood burner beneath a period stone fireplace.

At the rear of the sitting room, the kitchen/breakfast room is both practical and welcoming, fitted with a butler sink, a range of wood wall and base cupboards under wood worktops, and spaces for a range cooker, dishwasher, under counter fridge and freestanding fridge/freezer. There is a door and double window to the side, and an internal window to the conservatory adds light and character.

Accessed from the rear lobby are the utility/boiler room, cloakroom and a boot room, which could be used as a study if required., The conservatory is a particularly appealing space with delightful views across the gardens and into the countryside beyond, equipped with a second kitchen area including butler sink and full height storage cupboards..

On the first floor, the dual aspect principal bedroom enjoys far reaching rural views and has bespoke fitted wardrobes. Three further bedrooms and a large family bathroom complete the accommodation.

High Bank Cottage is approached from Old Forge Lane via a driveway leading to the large parking area in front of the house and the classic Sussex two-bay, oak framed barn. The pretty front garden is mainly laid to lawn with a wood store, shed and well stocked flower beds; a sandstone path runs along the side of the cottage to the enclosed rear garden.

The terrace is an ideal spot for outdoor dining, with a further elevated decked area. The rear garden has an expanse of level lawn, bordered by a variety of mature trees and shrubs that offer seasonal interest. At the far end sits a timber summer house, with electricity and heating, another option as a work from home space. There is a timber garden shed with power and lighting, together with a further garden shed.

A gate close to the terrace opens onto a path leading down past the LPG tank to the single garage, which benefits from its own separate access from Old Forge Lane via solid wooden double gates. To the rear of the garage is a further store room/gym.

A separate driveway leads to the timber stable block, and connects on to the main drive, allowing for good drive through access for a horse trailer/lorry. The timber stable block has power and water connected and comprises three stables, tack room and an open hay store. Beyond the stables are two winter paddocks, a 40m x 20m all-weather school, and two summer paddocks with water connected.

About 4.17 acres in all.