Plawhatch Lane, Sharpthorne, RH19

Arts House forms the impressive western wing of the distinguished Old Plawhatch House—a striking Arts & Crafts country residence set in a peaceful countryside setting. A substantial home in its own right, this beautifully proportioned property has recently undergone a sympathetic extension and full-scale renovation, resulting in a superbly appointed and stylish home offering approximately 4000sqft of light-filled, versatile accommodation arranged over two floors.
Thoughtfully blending original period charm with high-quality modern finishes, the home retains its Arts & Crafts heritage through its asymmetrical façade of local stone and tile hanging, while inside, carefully curated touches such as wood block flooring, a soft, muted colour palette, bespoke vintage-style lighting by Skinflint, restored column radiators, and classic bathroom fittings offer timeless elegance with a contemporary edge.
The front door opens into a generous entrance hall, which leads to a well-equipped utility room with space for all the necessary appliances. Off the hallway are two spacious reception rooms with high ceilings, including a large, dual-aspect sitting room flooded with natural light from high-level windows and full-height sliding doors. At the heart of the home is a spectacular part-vaulted kitchen, dining, and family room—perfect for everyday living or entertaining on a grand scale. The kitchen is fitted with classic shaker-style cabinetry, composite worktops, and a four-oven dual-fuel Aga. There’s ample space for relaxed dining and lounging, and a pair of triple-glazed sliding doors open directly onto the terrace, seamlessly connecting the indoors with the garden beyond. A rear hallway, complete with secondary staircase to the first floor, along with a cloakroom, completes the ground floor accommodation. Upstairs, there are five bedrooms and an additional reception room, ideal as a playroom, snug, or teenage retreat. The dual-aspect principal bedroom enjoys views over the garden and benefits from a contemporary en suite shower room with a large walk-in cubicle. The remaining bedrooms are served by a beautifully styled family bathroom, featuring a freestanding roll-top bath and a separate walk-in shower.

Outside

Arts House is accessed via a long, private driveway leading from Plawhatch Lane, which gently winds its way to a generous parking area in front of a timber-framed double car port. The car port is equipped with power and provides useful rafter storage, combining practicality with classic rural charm. To the rear, the beautifully landscaped garden unfolds to the northwest, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting. A generous stone terrace spans the width of the house, creating a superb space for al fresco dining and entertaining. The terrace continues around to the eastern side of the property, where an additional seating area is framed by well-stocked raised flower beds and provides access to both the rear hall and sitting room. Beyond the terrace lies a wide expanse of freshly laid level lawn, enclosed by post and rail fencing and mature hedging, providing privacy and a wonderful sense of space. At the far end of the garden, the outlook opens up to reveal enchanting views across open farmland, towards Weirwood Reservoir and the rolling landscape of the High Weald beyond—offering a truly idyllic backdrop.

Situation

Arts House is located on the eastern edge of the village of Sharpthorne, set within the stunning High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and just a short distance from the renowned Ashdown Forest. Sharpthorne itself offers everyday essentials, including a village shop and a popular farm shop, while the nearby village of West Hoathly provides further amenities such as two welcoming pubs and a primary school. Just 2.5 miles away, the vibrant village of Forest Row boasts a wide variety of facilities, including independent boutiques, a supermarket, charming cafés, antique shops, a bakery, fishmonger, pubs, and well-regarded schools. For a broader range of shopping, dining, and leisure opportunities, the larger towns of East Grinstead and Haywards Heath are easily accessible, lying approximately five and nine miles away respectively.
Transport: Arts House is well placed for access to a number of railway stations. Gatwick Airport station, approximately 12 miles away by road, offers the fast and frequent Gatwick Express service to London Victoria from around 30 minutes. Additional rail connections are available at East Grinstead, Three Bridges (approximately 8.5 miles), and Haywards Heath—providing regular services to London, the South Coast, and beyond.
Schools: The area is exceptionally well served by a wide choice of state and independent schools. Notable options include Cumnor House, Great Walstead, Brambletye, Michael Hall (Steiner Waldorf), Ardingly College, Bede’s, and Brighton College—offering excellent educational opportunities across all age groups.

Property Ref Number:

HAM-57597

Additional Information

Wealden District Council
Council tax band: F
Utilities: Oil fired central heating. Mains water and electricity. Shared private drainage