High Street, Ardingly, Haywards Heath

Heritage within its walls
Nestled in the picturesque village of Ardingly, this delightful cottage stands as a timeless testament to Tudor architecture.

Dating back to the mid to late 1500s, this enchanting three-bay, timber-framed property has been lovingly preserved as two cottages. A home rich in local history; its origins intertwined with the 14th-century Hapstead Farm and its ancient ties to the Hett family estate, this cottage offers a unique glimpse into England's fascinating past.

Built sometime during the reign of Edward VI, Mary I, or Elizabeth I, this Grade II listed home transitioned to independent ownership in 1930, yet its legacy continues to resonate through the village, where descendants of the Hett family still reside.

Originally one of just a handful of cottages along the old Hapstead Green trackway, the path to the front door follows this ancient route, which predates the current High Street and its surrounding houses. This historical route has affectionately become known as 'The Twitten', a serene community of homes upon which where this cottage also stands.

Age old clauses within the ancient property deeds grant residents of the Twitten the right to pass with bicycles and wheelbarrows, and to access a historic pump house in a nearby garden, adding a quirky touch of living history to this intriguing and enigmatic home.

Welcome home
Parking is readily available on the high street or in the free car park across from the bakery, whilst the handy trackway at one end of the Twitten is ideal for unloading shopping and even for washing the car.

Wind your way along the pathway, fringed in greenery and festooned in rambling roses, to arrive at this delightful cottage.

Typical of its period, the cottage forgoes the medieval entrance hall as the solid wood, iron-studded front door opens directly into the sitting room. Storage for coats and shoes can be found in a handy cupboard behind the front door.

Entering into this delightful cottage is much more than stepping into the sitting room; it is akin to stepping back through history, embraced by ancient stone walls. Modern comfort cushions each step, with champagne coloured carpet extending underfoot, balanced by rustic beams above.

Cosy nights
Snuggle up by the wood-burning stove, set in its stone inglenook surround, worn smooth by centuries of hands tending the fire. As you place the next log on, lose yourself in thought, picturing all those who have done the same over the centuries.

OWNER QUOTE: "This is a wonderful Christmas house. We bring holly and ivy to grace the fireplace and mistletoe from the garden. Christmas house guests are always so complimentary about how the house presents over the festive period."

Lift the latch on the wooden door, leading from the sitting room through into the kitchen, where the partner to the back-to-back fireplace of the former room can be found. Also accommodating a log-burning stove, exposed beams fill the room with character.
Wooden worktops sit over the bespoke units currently housing a freezer, dishwasher and washing machine.

Wine and dine
Tiled flooring flows underfoot, whilst sage green shades to the pantry cupboard (offering reams of space for spices and dry goods) instils a country-farmhouse comfort, reminiscent of the home's rural surrounds. Ample storage can also be found in the sage green cabinetry, topped in solid wood worktops. Appliances include a Zanussi oven and hob and white sink, with space for an undercounter fridge.

OWNER QUOTE: "Every room has a cosy feeling."

Embrace the outdoors from the garden room, a light and bright garden room where sliding doors open to the sunny patio; the perfect place to enjoy alfresco dining with far reaching views out over the garden and meadows beyond throughout the summer months. Spacious and bright, and where you can admire the stunning beams of the original exterior wall.

Comfort awaits
From the kitchen, the carpeted stairs lead up, past what would have been the smoke bay (a wattle and daub screen within the middle of the house), used to channel the smoke from the fireplace to the eaves.

A walk-in wardrobe leads from the stairs to the principal bedroom. Cosily carpeted, with exposed beams within the walls, windows frame far reaching views out over the garden and fields. There is ample space for wardrobes and dressing table alongside a double bed, whilst the cosy cottage charm remains.


Rest and Refresh
From the landing, there is access to the modern bathroom, recently refurbished and fitted with underfloor heating, chrome radiator, wash basin and walk-in shower, alongside LED mirror.

Continue along to arrive at a second bedroom, where bespoke wooden fitted desks feature beneath the exposed beams and joists. Overlooking the leafy views, and with a stained-glass internal feature window, this room is currently used as a home office.



Make your way upstairs once more, admiring the view from the window on the turn in the stairs, before emerging into bedroom three. Light and bright courtesy of skylights within the vaulted ceiling, this welcoming bedroom features built-in storage. Spy evidence of smoke blackening on the purlins of the ceiling above.

Across from the top of the stairs is another incredible room, currently used as a snug/hobbies room with vaulted ceilings and carpeted underfoot, accessed by a quaint wooden door.


Embrace nature
Sense the tranquillity of life in 'The Twitten', a haven of peace and serenity, where wildlife flourishes and nature abounds.

The private garden, securely gated, features a large patio, perfect for wining and dining, and relaxation, leading onto a large lawn, fringed in wildflower beds, mature trees and even a chicken coop and run.

To the rear, unbroken views extend over the fields, offering stunning sunrise and sunset vistas.

OWNER QUOTE: "We have a huge variety of birds visiting the garden, we have owls in the woods opposite, we regularly see buzzards and red kites whilst relaxing in the conservatory."

A selection of sheds, ideal for storing your tools, provide the perfect place for those looking to grow their own fruit and vegetables.

Out and about
Close by, Ardingly offers a delightful blend of village charm and modern convenience. Be tempted by the daily aroma of freshly baked artisan loaves and pastries from Fellows, the village bakery. Or, visit award-winning bespoke tailor Dandylion Style to acquire a country outfit for special occasions.

Along the High Street, pick up your essentials at the general store, or treat yourself to a convenient dinner from the family-run Chinese takeaway. Two welcoming pubs-the Ardingly Inn and the Gardener's Arms- are within walking distance.

A short stroll leads you to the historic village of West Hoathly, home to the Priest House and Gardens, and the Cat Inn. Nearby Lindfield, just five minutes away, is home to an artisan butcher, charming tea rooms, gift shops, and a variety of pubs and restaurants.

The South of England Showground is a hub for events and local gatherings, while the surrounding fields are perfect for dog walking and cycling.

Haywards Heath offers a Waitrose and Sainsbury's, for larger shopping trips whilst the lively area known as Broadway is brimming with bars and restaurants.

This cottage provides direct access to the picturesque countryside on your doorstep, affectionately known by locals as 'Klondike'; ideal for dog walking and enjoying the sights and sounds of the Bluebell Railway where you can enjoy tea and cake on the steam railway's platform.

Nearby attractions include Sheffield Park, Standen House, and Wakehurst Place, all National Trust properties with stunning gardens.

Ardingly Reservoir offers scenic walks and water sports, while the active village hall hosts various community groups and events. The 11th-century church, bespoke tailors, a café, and recreation grounds with play areas and sports clubs all capture the essence of quintessential English village life.

For golf lovers, Haywards Heath and Lindfield Golf clubs are each less than 4 miles away.

St. Peter's Church of England Primary School is within walking distance, with secondary education available in Haywards Heath. Ardingly College, a top Sussex school, is also nearby.

Conveniently located, Ardingly offers easy access to Haywards Heath train station, providing direct routes to London, and Gatwick Airport, just a 25-minute drive away.

Quaint, historic and encapsulating the essence of country living, this cottage is so much more than a home; it is the embodiment of comfort.

For a brochure of this home please call the Bees Homes country office.

Viewing strictly by appointment with Bees Homes.
If there is any point which is of particular importance to you, we invite you to discuss this with us, especially before you travel to view the property.

Please Note:
Money Laundering Regulations 2007: Intending purchasers will be asked to produce identification documentation upon acceptance of any offer. We would ask for your cooperation in producing such in order that there will not be a delay in agreeing the sale.

Bees Homes use all reasonable endeavours to supply accurate property information in line with the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. These property details do not constitute any part of the offer or contract and all measurements are approximate. It should not be assumed that this property has all the necessary Planning, Building Regulation or other consents. Any services, appliances and heating system(s) listed have not been checked or tested.

Floor plan measurements: These approximate room sizes are only intended as general guidance. You must verify the dimensions carefully before ordering carpets or any built in furniture.

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Council Tax Band: D
Tenure: Freehold