Frogs Hole Cottage, Sissinghurst, Kent

A masterful balance of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design defines this substantial five-bedroom house, set just outside of the High Weald National Landscape. Here, a 19th-century farm cottage has been brilliantly reimagined with a Siberian larch-clad extension and a self-contained annexe. Spanning nearly 2,500 sq ft, light-filled living spaces are set over two generously proportioned storeys, honouring its agricultural heritage while embracing contemporary design.



The Tour



Concealed by neat hedging along a quiet country lane, the house reveals itself gradually via a private driveway. A landscaped front garden, bordered by beds of blooming perennials, hints at the considered detailing beyond.



A contemporary Siberian larch-clad extension announces the home's architectural ambition, while the original farm cottage provides characterful counterpoints throughout. A striking two-storey, steel-framed glass frontage is a dramatic presence that draws the eye to the open-tread staircase within.



Entry is to a voluminous hall flooded with natural light, fitted with practical built-in storage. The space flows effortlessly into the substantial open-plan reception area, where there are distinct zones for cooking, dining and gathering - apt for both daily life and/or hosting.



The bespoke kitchen has premium work surfaces, an integrated Quooker tap, and Miele appliances. White units in an L-shaped configuration with a projecting island and integrated wine fridge provide bar seating for casual dining. The generous dining area opens via floor-to-ceiling sliding glass onto the outdoor terrace, ideal for summer-long entertaining.



The peaceful sitting room overlooks the garden, thoughtfully finished in soft neutral tones with white oak floorboards. A cloakroom and practical utility room complete the ground floor.



A beautiful open-tread staircase ascends to four bright bedrooms, each with bespoke wardrobes and neutral palettes. One has an immaculate en suite. The primary bathroom is also on this level and has a Lusso stone bath, and Duravit fittings serving the others.



Above, the attic level has a fifth bedroom beneath the eaves, currently configured as a music room and flooded with light from two expansive skylights; a third large window overlooks ancient oak trees.



The self-contained annexe is a flexible space perfect for a home office or guests, with a kitchenette, shower room, and bucolic views across fields and woodland.



Outside Space



The 0.3-acre gardens have been meticulously landscaped in a surprisingly low-maintenance manner. The rear garden has a generous paved terrace with sections for dining and relaxation. This is surrounded by planting schemes that provide year-round colour and scent, busy with bees, butterflies, birds and dragonflies throughout the summer months.



Abundant fruiting varieties (including heritage apple and fig trees, as well as Kent Claret wine grapes) provide seasonal harvests. There is also a potting shed for the keen gardener.



The lawn is flanked by mature hedging, creating a private sanctuary perfect for playing, relaxing or hosting.



The Area



The house is at the heart of Kent's celebrated food scene. Within easy reach are Michelin-starred establishments, including The West House in Biddenden in its atmospheric 16th-century setting, as well as The Small Holding in Kilndown (which holds a Green Michelin star) and the acclaimed The George in Rye. There are plenty of other options in Tunbridge Wells. Cosy pubs dot the local landscape, including The Three Chimneys, a short walk away, the Milk House in Sissinghurst, and numerous characterful coaching inns.



In recent years, Kent's sparkling wine production has become increasingly celebrated. World-class vineyards are within easy reach of Frogs Hole Cottage, including Chapel Down in Tenterden, Balfour Winery at Hush Heath, Biddenden Vineyards and Gusbourne Estate. All offer tours and tastings of their award-winning vintages.



For adventure enthusiasts, Bewl Water offers sailing, paddleboarding and open water swimming, while Bedgebury Forest provides world-class mountain biking trails. The coast at Camber Sands (40 minutes) has kitesurfing and beach-dwelling prospects along its extensive white sandy dunes. Locally, Chart Hills Golf Club, tennis clubs in Cranbrook and Tenterden, plus rugby and football clubs serve all ages and abilities. The numerous squash courts and sports facilities ensure year-round activity options.



The High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers some of England's finest walking, from gentle rambles through ancient woodland at Hemsted Forest to more challenging routes across the Wealden landscape. The National Trust's Sissinghurst Castle Garden continues to inspire keen gardeners, while Bedgebury National Pinetum houses the world's most complete conifer collection.



The location is synonymous with outstanding educational provision. State options include the well-regarded Cranbrook School and Sissinghurst Primary School. The area's independent schools include Benenden School, Saint Ronan’s, Bethany School, Dulwich Prep Cranbrook, and Sutton Valence School.



Headcorn station, under 10 minutes away, provides direct services to London Bridge, Charing Cross, and Cannon Street in under an hour.



Council Tax Band: G