Entire home

Peaceful 18th C Country House In The Heart Of A Nature Reserve, Near Chichester

Photo gallery for Peaceful 18th C Country House In The Heart Of A Nature Reserve, Near Chichester

A traditional stone house with a brick pathway leading to a green archway.
A dining area with a wooden table, four chairs, and a heart-shaped light fixture.
A stone house with two windows and a brick pathway leading to it.
A room with a wooden floor, a white table with a vase of flowers, a lamp, and a chair.
A spacious living area with a large sliding glass door leading to a patio, a sofa, a dining table with chairs, and a potted plant.

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
Situated near the sea, this 5-bedroom vacation home accommodates 12 guests and features 3 bathrooms. It offers a deck, yard, and patio for outdoor enjoyment. Nearby activities include windsurfing, fishing, and mountain biking, while West Dean Gardens and Uppark provide local attractions. The property is pet-friendly and includes games for family fun.

Highlights

  • Room to spread out
    Enjoy spacious layout that give everyone more room to relax.
  • Firepit available
    One of the few properties with a dedicated outdoor firepit.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Close to South Downs National Park
5 bedrooms3+ bathroomsSleeps 12

Popular amenities

  • Fenced yard
  • Pet-friendly
  • Onsite parking available
  • Washing machine
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Barbecue

Explore the area

View map
Chilgrove, West Sussex
  • Place, South Downs National Park
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Goodwood Motor Circuit
    ‪28 min drive‬
  • Place, Goodwood Racecourse
    ‪30 min drive‬
  • Airport, Southampton (SOU)
    ‪75 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Bedroom 1

4 Single Beds

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

1 King Bed

Bedroom 4

1 King Bed

Bedroom 5

1 King Bed

3 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo

Bathroom 3

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Bathroom 4

+1
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Bidet · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Peaceful 18th C Country House In The Heart Of A Nature Reserve, Near Chichester

The property was built in the 18th Century by the groom to the bedchamber of George II as a smallpox isolation hospital (and featured on the BBC's House Detectives) but is now a large comfortable family home - plenty of space for multi-generational families and ideal for reunions. The large garden has mature flower beds, fruit trees and a large pond (fenced) with an island. The property itself is set in the middle of a wood in the Kingley Vale Nature Reserve within South Downs National Park but is only a 20 minute drive from Chichester and the market town of Petersfield. The property is 15 minutes drive from Goodwood and 30 minutes drive from West Wittering beach. There is a cancellation/refund policy. It is a birdwatcher's paradise - we recorded over 49 different birds in the garden within the space of 1 day. It is a truly magical, tranquil place - an oasis in the middle of the forest with footpaths and cycle routes going straight from the property into the woods and beyond to the Devil's Humps where there are views of the Isle of Wight and Solent. The house has been recently extended and refurbished and the conservatory replaced with a large summer reception which has large sliding doors which open onto a wraparound patio. One of the bedrooms opens onto a newly added roof terrace with glazed balustrade.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 26
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Please see owner's policy
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Events

No events allowed
Please arrange direct with the owner
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Pets

Pets allowed: limit 3 total
Please see owner's policy
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Any charges imposed by HomeAway for using the on line payment system will be the responsibility of the traveller.
The owner has a more flexible cancellation policy than shown above contained in the booking conditions that the owner will email to the traveller
The owner's booking conditions apply to all bookings which are emailed to the traveller

Important information

You need to know

Property # 8126588
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Please arrange direct with the owner
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Chichester

Located in Chichester, this holiday home is in a rural area and near the beach. Weald and Downland Open Air Museum and Chichester Festival Theatre are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Goodwood Golf Club and Ashling Park Estate. Travelling with kids? Consider West Sussex Falconry, or check out an event or a game at Goodwood Motor Circuit. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and mountain biking.
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Map
Chilgrove, West Sussex

What's nearby

  • South Downs National Park - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Goodwood Motor Circuit - 28 min drive - 15.1 km
  • Goodwood Racecourse - 30 min drive - 17.3 km
  • Goodwood House - 30 min drive - 15.7 km
  • West Wittering Beach - 47 min drive - 35.0 km

Getting around

  • Rowlands Castle Station - 20 min drive
  • Southampton (SOU) - 73 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Partridge Inn - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Namaste Punjab - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Caccia & Tails - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Porsche Cafe - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪The Loft - Fish & Chips - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Peaceful 18th C Country House In The Heart Of A Nature Reserve, Near Chichester pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 3 total).

How much is parking at Peaceful 18th C Country House In The Heart Of A Nature Reserve, Near Chichester?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Peaceful 18th C Country House In The Heart Of A Nature Reserve, Near Chichester?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Peaceful 18th C Country House In The Heart Of A Nature Reserve, Near Chichester?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Peaceful 18th C Country House In The Heart Of A Nature Reserve, Near Chichester located?

This family-friendly Chichester holiday home is located by the sea, 3.1 mi (5 km) from Kingley Vale, and within 6 mi (10 km) of West Sussex Falconry and Uppark. Sky Park Farm and Bishop's Palace Gardens are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 74 out of 101 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 21 out of 101 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 6 out of 101 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 101 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 101 reviews

8.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had the most fantastic weekend here celebrating with a group of friends and honestly couldn’t have chosen a better place!The house is in a brilliant rural location with no immediate neighbours, so it felt really private and peaceful, while still being close enough to walk to the local pub – the best of both worlds!The house itself was incredibly well equipped and had everything we could possibly have needed. The entertaining room was an absolute highlight and made the weekend for us – such an amazing social space for everyone to get together, have fun and enjoy the celebrations.Everything from booking through to our stay was so easy, and communication was excellent throughout.It was the perfect property for a weekend away with friends and we all came away saying how much we’d loved it. We made some brilliant memories and would absolutely recommend it – we’d return in a heartbeat!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Myself and friends once again had a very enjoyable stay in this rather unique and historical house,.so much so that we will hopefully return next year.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice peaceful location. Good for family gathering Lovely new kitchen.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic stay! Rachel was a delight to work with. The home is in a very peaceful location and is so pretty! Its history is really amazing and we enjoyed reading the extensive folder Rachel created with historical details about the house. We would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Holiday in West Sussex.

A very good property. We were very happy there.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful, peaceful getaway

We had a wonderful time. Rachel was a lovely host! The pictures of the house and lands dont do it justice when seen in the flesh!Thanks Rachel!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely location with beautiful walks

Amazing woodland and walks on your doorstep. Beautiful house with lots of character with large quite garden to relax in. Not far from beach, would stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent rural location

Interesting, beautiful house in lovely rural location, 45 minutes from West Wittering beach.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A little oasis in the woods

The history of this beautiful property just made it even more special for the family weekend. Home from home with more space, grandeur and amazing setting. So nice to escape from the world for a bit into absolute quiet with amazing walks.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

long term friends

A unique house, with a fascinating history in an area of natural beauty. With great walks from the gate and beyond.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely stay in a beautiful house

We had a fabulous time celebrating the new year with extended family. The house is very charming and was beautifully decorated for Christmas. Gorgeous countryside and a great walk down to the White Horse pub. Would highly recommend Blackbushe House for a getaway with family or friends.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

A Weekend Away

This was a fantastic location for friends from Brighton, Bristol & London to catch up with plenty of space and amenities for all. An incredible history behind the house and a very unique location tucked away. Rachel's communication was superb and only wish we could have stayed longer :)
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 18 March 2020
I am so glad that you enjoyed your stay and thank you for your review.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fascinating history

Loved location - up long long track through woods. Loved history as smallpox isolation hospital.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Birthday celebration

Wonderful location for our family birthday celebration. Plenty to keep the kids occupied. A fabulous time was had by all.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mrs

Really homely! Beautiful spot surrounded by nature. Host was really helpful and kind
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A unique property in a unique setting. Perfect for a family get together. The kitchen and new kitchen extension are fabulous with everything you could possibly need. The ice maker was a godsend on the hottest May weekend ever. There are five big bedrooms, huge dining room along with an enormous lounge. The drum kit was a big hit as was the table football. Thank goodness it is so isolated and we didn’t have to worry about upsetting neighbours. The garden is vast, surrounded by trees and with a fabulous pond (safely fenced off) with fish, tadpoles and damsel flies a plenty. The children could be out of sight but safe as there is a fence all the way round. This was an amazing weekend. My only word of warning would be about the long track (bridle path) up to the house. Anyone with low slung car could be in trouble. But definitely worth the effort once you are there.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful get-together

A perfect place for our annual university friends get together. We’re now all in our fifties and since Covid seven of us get together for a long weekend. This was the perfect location. Great for walks. Great for cooking together and relaxing, and a good pub within a 30mins walk.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A charming house in a beautiful location

We had a wonderful stay in this lovely old house with its amazing history. Such a treat to be in the middle of nowhere with no traffic noise, clean air, dark skies and no neighbours to upset with the sound of the drums! The house is both cosy and roomy enough for a group of 10 to relax and have fun. We may well be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect house for a relaxing weekend in beautiful countryside. As a relaxing escape from busy lives we felt immersed in nature. There was plenty of space with options for 8 adults to read, cook, play music & games, dine - both indoors and outside, without feeling crowded. The history of the house interested some of us and we really liked the comfortable style of the furnishings and decor. The owner Rachel, was very helpful with communicating directions and ‘things to know’. We’d very happily stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great walking holiday in the Downs

Wonderful cottage with a lot of history. Perfect location in countryside, but easy access to Chichester and cosy pubs in the neighbourhood. Great for walking in the South Downs. Fits 10 perfectly. Good communication with very helpful owner.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely house

We enjoyed our stay, it is well off the beaten track and a very stiff gate at the entrance made us doubt if we were in the right place. The house is lovely if in need of some serious TLC, especially with the plumbing. Lots of games, books and adventures for our grand children who loved the drum kit and piano and we loved kitchen. A good location for everything once the driveway had been negotiated.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 18 August 2025
Thanks for your review. When I came to clean after your stay I noticed that the basin in the 2nd bathroom was blocked so this has now been sorted - I would have come during your stay if I had known! Sorry about that. I have not spotted any other issues with the plumbing.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A 70th birthday celebration on my favourite hill!

The property was chosen because of its location - I have known the area around Bow Hill over 6 decades. Blackbushe House was marvellous for its character, charm and the spacious accommodation. We had a wonderful time socialising and celebrating in the house and garden whilst also enjoying walks to Kingley Vale, the Devils Humps tumuli and to the Hare and Hounds in Stoughton. A huge thank you to our host Rachel for the opportunity to stay in your home.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful breakaway

Enjoyed a lovely weekend away, in this lovely romote house in a lovely nature park. The house is very spacious and has alively garden and access to the nature reseve and some lovely walks. Rachel was in co tact with any up dates after booking
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Interesting house

The house was beautiful with plenty of space for 11 adults - the drive is a long way in the dark but worth it when you get there. Be careful if you have very full cars, go very slowly.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Lovely house

We loved the house and the location. Very unique. Loads of room inside and out for a large family, but the beds are not kings. This is not a property for those wanting a sparkling pristine house. It’s very old which is its charm. The kitchen was new and very nice indeed. But the windows - especially upstairs - were badly in need of a good clean!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 July 2025
Thanks so much for taking the time to write a review. Your feedback is appreciated! I do need to correct you though because two of the beds are indeed king sized and one is a double as per the advert. In relation to the windows, as explained in our email exchange, I had just finished having a new kitchen fitted and so there was dust on the windows which I cleaned following our email exchange. You were the first guests to use the kitchen so it was very new. The house is 18th century but I take pride in ensuring it is super clean for my guests.

About the host

Hosted by Rachel

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Languages:

English, French

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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