Ashdown Avenue, Saltdean

Ashdown Lodge is a home with soul. Believed to be the first house built on Ashdown Avenue in the 1930s, this distinguished detached residence has spent the past three decades as a cherished family home. Earlier in its history, it also operated as a welcoming bed and breakfast, adding another layer to its rich and varied past. Now, for the first time in a generation, it awaits its next chapter.

Set on an exceptional double plot in coveted West Saltdean, the house presents an increasingly rare proposition: 2,500 sq.ft. of characterful living space, wraparound gardens of genuine maturity, and views that sweep across rooftops to the Oval Park and the sea beyond.

Approach via the private front garden and you're greeted by the property's signature feature – a generous covered veranda draped in fragrant wisteria, an utterly romantic spot for morning coffee or evening aperitifs. The blue front door, inset with original stained glass, sets the tone for what lies within.

Inside, the triple-aspect lounge and dining room forms the heart of the home. Beamed ceilings, an exposed brick fireplace, and a serving hatch to the kitchen speak to an era of craftsmanship and sociable living. A door opens to a south-facing side terrace – perfect for alfresco dining bathed in afternoon sun.

The fitted kitchen is practical and well-appointed, featuring traditional blue shaker-style cabinetry, marble-effect worktops, twin pantry cupboards, and space for a statement range cooker. A ground-floor WC and boiler cupboard complete the practical amenities, with a second door providing direct garden access.

Four double bedrooms occupy the ground floor, offering genuine flexibility. The principal bedroom enjoys its own private entrance from the veranda – an inspired arrangement for those working from home or receiving clients. A family bathroom with bath, shower, and period-style tiling serves this level.

A utility room leads to a generous under-house store (once a wine cellar) and through to the garage – a space that is practical as is, or could be transformed into an annexe, home office, or extension, subject to planning.

Ascend to the first floor and discover two further double bedrooms tucked into the eaves, their angles adding character and charm. One benefits from an en-suite bathroom complete with a freestanding claw-foot tub. From these top windows, the sea views are at their most captivating.

Step outside and the gardens truly reveal their magic. Lawns wrap around the property, bordered by established planting, climbing roses on a pergola, and a tranquil fishponds. This is a garden for all seasons – space for children to play, for summer gatherings, for quiet contemplation.

Additional property information

Property type: Detached house
Tenure: Freehold
Council tax band: F 
EPC rating: D
Parking: Private driveway and garage  
Garden: Spacious wraparound garden

The area

Saltdean offers the best of coastal living with the convenience of city proximity. Just five miles east of central Brighton, this friendly suburb is anchored by the iconic art deco Lido – recently restored to its former glory following a multi-million-pound refurbishment.

The Oval Park lies at the community's heart, offering a children's play area, skatepark, tennis courts, and bowling green. A tunnel at the park's edge leads directly to pebbled beaches, lifeguard-supervised through summer. For walkers, the clifftop trail delivers spectacular sea views stretching towards Brighton, while the South Downs National Park rises to the north.

The picturesque village of Rottingdean is just fifteen minutes on foot, and local shops and restaurants cater well to daily needs. Brighton Marina, a ten-minute drive away, provides larger supermarkets and leisure facilities.

Schools

Three nursery schools sit within a four-minute walk, and Saltdean Primary School is reachable in eight minutes on foot. Secondary options include Longhill High School and Peacehaven Community School. For independent education, Brighton College and Roedean are both within easy reach. 

Transport links

The A259 coast road connects you to central Brighton in eighteen minutes by car, while regular bus services complete the journey in around twenty minutes. The A27 is an eighteen-minute drive, offering routes east to Lewes or north via the A23 to Crawley and London. Gatwick Airport is approximately forty-five minutes away; Heathrow around ninety minutes.

Garden

Spacious wraparound garden mostly laid to lawn, with south-facing patio, fish ponds, pergola and veranda at the front.

Parking - Driveway

Paved driveway with space for 2 vehicles.

Parking - Garage

Integral garage.

Disclaimer

All property details have been provided by the owners. While Number Twenty Four strives for accuracy, we cannot guarantee the completeness or correctness of this information. Buyers and renters are advised to conduct their own due diligence before proceeding with a purchase or let.