Station Road, Hellingly, Hailsham, BN27 4EU

Nestled in the idyllic Sussex countryside, Horselunges Manor is an exceptional Grade I Listed moated manor house that dates back to the fifteenth century. Steeped in history and rich in medieval charm, this remarkable property retains an abundance of original detail and offers a rare opportunity to create a country estate of real distinction. Once the residence of Peter Grant, the legendary manager of Led Zeppelin, the manor also holds a unique place in rock and roll history.

A pair of electronically operated wrought iron gates opens onto a sweeping gravelled drive, flanked by wildflower grassland and specimen trees. The approach culminates in a large parking area in front of the garaging complex, with three tranquil ponds enhancing the sense of arrival. The eastern elevation of the house is striking, with close-studded plaster infilling, moulded bressumer beams, heraldic stained glass windows, and projecting oriel bays that together create a façade of great architectural importance.

Inside, the studded oak front door opens to a hall that leads to the Great Parlour. With soaring ceilings, an open timbered framework, a magnificent brick fireplace, and deep window seats overlooking the gardens, this is a room of historic character and warmth. The adjacent study continues the theme with oak panelling, a stone and brick fireplace, and double-aspect windows overlooking the grounds. A west-facing snug provides a more intimate retreat.

The dining room, with exposed timber framework and an oak-panelled fireplace, offers an atmospheric setting for entertaining. The kitchen and breakfast room feature flagstone floors, granite work surfaces, and a four-oven Aga, complemented by a utility room with additional storage and service space.

For leisure, the manor offers a billiard room with French windows opening to the garden, and a gymnasium with vaulted ceiling, mirrors, and access to the grounds. A secondary staircase links this space to the first-floor library, creating flexibility of use.

The principal staircase, one of the earliest known Well staircases in England, rises to a vaulted landing with exposed timbers. The Great Chamber, now the master suite, is a remarkable space with a vaulted ceiling, oak panelling, immense tie beams, and a concealed door leading to a dressing room and bathroom. Further bedrooms include a suite with Victorian hand-painted bathroom, rooms with vaulted ceilings and stone fireplaces, and a versatile library-bedroom with its own entrance.

Attached to the house is a charming single-storey brick annexe with two bedrooms, sitting room, kitchen, and shower room, ideal for guests or family.

The grounds extend to approximately 8 acres, with formal walled gardens featuring espalier fruit trees, parterre borders, sweeping lawns, and a heated swimming pool with pavilion. Outbuildings include a substantial garaging complex with self-contained flat, a converted stables cottage, workshops and barn, the stunning mature grounds provide a tranquil rural backdrop. Further land available by separate negotiation. 

Local Amenities
Hellingly offers a village church, primary school, recreation ground, and community facilities. Hailsham, only two miles away, provides supermarkets including Waitrose, while Heathfield, Tunbridge Wells, Lewes, and Brighton are all within easy reach.

Transport
Rail services from Berwick and Polegate, both around six miles, connect to Eastbourne, Lewes, and London Victoria. Gatwick Airport is about twenty-five miles.

Education
Local schools include Hellingly Primary, Herstmonceux Primary, Hailsham Community College, and Bede’s at Upper Dicker. Independent schools in the wider area include St Andrew’s and Eastbourne College, as well as Marlborough House and St Ronan’s.

Leisure
Nearby attractions include Herstmonceux Castle, the Cuckoo Trail, and Cuckmere Valley for walking and cycling. Wellshurst Golf and Country Club, the coastline at Birling Gap and Eastbourne, as well as theatres in Eastbourne and Tunbridge Wells, offer further leisure options. The renowned Glyndebourne Opera House is also within reach.

Healthcare
Eastbourne District General Hospital and Conquest Hospital at Hastings provide nearby healthcare facilities.

Horselunges Manor is not simply a house but a living piece of English heritage. With its remarkable architecture, Led Zeppelin legacy, and extensive grounds, it offers a lifestyle defined by history, character, and distinction, with scope for sympathetic improvement.