Rural Retreat with glorious views, I hour from London. 4* Gold Visit England
A stylish new cottage awarded 4* Gold Visit England Flying Horse Cottage is a rural retreat less than an hour from London by train and taxi and only 45 minutes drive from Gatwick Airport. The cottage is perched on a ridge in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The Cottage has 2 bedrooms both ensuite, luxury underfloor gas heating throughout and a wood burning stove. There are two outdoor seating areas, a paved terrace at the front of the cottage with glorious views and a decking viewing platform with built in seats at the rear of the cottage. Both these areas can be accessed directly from the living area via sliding doors and a french window.
The cottage is set in 4 acres of pasture and woodland. Across the lane there is an area of private heathland with a bird hide for guest's use overlooking the 450 acre RSPB Nature Reserve. The bird hide is fully equipped so that guests can enjoy the countryside in all weather - bird watching, sketching or simply chilling with a drink and enjoying the magnificent views and sunsets.
The RSPB nature reserve which is grazed during summer months by Exmoor ponies contains a wide variety of habitats including heathland, woodland, a stream and mire leads directly the dramatic sandstone outcrops at Eridge Rocks a Site of Special Scientific Interest. At the far corner of Broadwater Warren there is also access to Harrisons Rocks. Both places are great picnic spots and provide some of the best rock climbing in Southern England.
Detailed Description of Rooms:
Bedroom 1: Has a king-size bed, TV, and sliding patio doors leading directly onto the terrace. It has an ensuite walk-in wetroom with a panamera digital shower. Bedroom 2: Has a super-king bed, TV, window with views over pasture and woodland and ensuite bathroom with steel "Bette" bath. Kitchen Area: contains Bosch gas hob, oven, integrated Bosch fridge/freezer, microwave and dishwasher. The kitchen cabinets are handcrafted in oak. There is a wooden dining table and 4 chairs Living Room: Contains Woodburning Stove, 2 sofas, desk, sea-chest and wall mounted TV. The sea-chest contains a small wicker basket with thermos and glasses, binoculars for guests use. A special feature of the living area is the triangular stained glass window of a kingfisher made by local stained glass artist, Stoney Parsons.
The cottage is on one level and fully accessible.
Flying Horse Cottage is ideal for couples, families with children over 8 years and business guests.
We do not accept dogs except for guide dogs
Flying Horse Cottage is the perfect base to explore the immediate area either on foot or bicycle and there are a range of good country pubs all within walking distance. Tunbridge Wells is less that 2 miles away with lots to see, do and great places to stop for a coffee, have a leisurely lunch or a special dinner.
There is an excellent farm shop, Fullers, only 1/2 mile away which as well as providing high quality meats, has a well stocked delicatessan and sells fruit, vegetables, eggs and a wide range of groceries.
Explore the wider area. Within an hour's drive you can visit Chartwell (Winston Churchill's home) Hever Castle, Penshurst Place, Leeds Castle, two of the finest gardens in England, Sissinghurst and Great Dixter, and Brighton with it's Royal Pavilion and historic Lanes.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Thank you for helping us with our check out and we hope you've enjoyed your stay.
After locking up, please return the key to the keysafe.
Have a safe journey home.
Best wishes
Giny abd Andrew
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
The garden is not fenced and so children must be supervised outside as there is direct access to a pond and woodland.
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Royal Tunbridge Wells
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, this cottage is in a rural area. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Eridge Rocks Nature Reserve and Forest Way Country Park, while Assembly Hall Theater and Tunbridge Wells Museum and Art Gallery are cultural highlights. Spa Valley Railway and Groombridge Railway Station are also worth visiting. Explore all the area has to offer with hiking/biking trails, cycling and horse riding.
Eridge Rocks Nature Reserve - 2 min drive - 2.3 km
Pantiles - 4 min drive - 4.0 km
Hever Castle and Gardens - 30 min drive - 18.7 km
Brighton Beach - 61 min drive - 60.7 km
Getting around
Eridge Station - 3 min drive
Gatwick Airport (LGW) - 48 min drive
Restaurants
The Sussex Arms - 4 min drive
The Ragged Trousers - 3 min drive
Old Auction House - 3 min drive
The Hare - 6 min drive
The White Bear - 4 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Rural Retreat with glorious views, I hour from London. 4* Gold Visit England pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Rural Retreat with glorious views, I hour from London. 4* Gold Visit England?
As of 14 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Rural Retreat with glorious views, I hour from London. 4* Gold Visit England on 14 Apr 2026 start from £160, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Rural Retreat with glorious views, I hour from London. 4* Gold Visit England?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Rural Retreat with glorious views, I hour from London. 4* Gold Visit England?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Rural Retreat with glorious views, I hour from London. 4* Gold Visit England?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Rural Retreat with glorious views, I hour from London. 4* Gold Visit England located?
Situated in a rural location, this cottage is within 3 miles (5 km) of Eridge Rocks Nature Reserve, Spa Valley Railway and Pantiles. Groombridge Place and Groombridge Railway Station are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We spent one month in this beautiful and comfortable cottage. The views from the cottage are spectacular! We saw dear in the fields almost every evening. Truly delightful. Giny and Andrew, the owners, are extremely helpful and are so warm and wonderful. The location is near to tons of National Trust properties. We highly recommend this outstanding retreat! 5 Stars!!!!
Eileen E.
Stayed 28 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Jul 2025
Eileen and Darryl, it was a pleasure for us to have you both as guests and we're delighted you enjoyed your stay and that you made the most of visiting the historic sites and gardens in the area.
Close to wonderful gardens (sissinghurst, Great Dixter) and historic properties like Hever castle and Winston Churchill’s home at Chartwell. Comfortable and well furnished.
Leslie E.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 3 May 2024
Thank you for your kind review. We're so gkad you enjoyed the cottage and visiting gardens.
This property is perfect if you are looking for peace and tranquility with lovely views but want to be near Tunbridge Wells. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend a stay here.
Vicki E.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Dec 2023
Thank you for your review and we're so glad you enjoyed your stay at the cottage and the location.
A 5 Star review for a 5 Star stay. Cottage had everything we needed for a 5-night stay. Arrived to see a herd of deer in the field beyond the garden and they came back to revisit us more than once. Beautiful location within easy reach of forests, amazing pre-historic monuments and the beautiiful town of Tunbridge Wells. The Welcome and friendliness of Giny and Andrew added to the experience and thay also arrnaged for the weather to be glorious in March. If you want to stay in this area, this should be first choice.
Michael K.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Apr 2025
Thank you for your kind words Michael, and Andrew and I are delighted that you enjoyed staying at Flying Horse Cottage and exploring the area. Hope to see you both again if you decide to return to the area.
Outstanding accommodation in beautiful countryside
My wife and I spent a brief honeymoon (4 nights) at Flying Horse Cottage. The cottage was clean, comfortable, well equipped, quiet, and just all-round lovely.
Communication from Giny and Andrew was excellent.
There are beautiful views from the cottage, good outdoor seating areas, and plenty to do in the area, including visiting historic Royal Tonbridge Wells, and lots of scenic outdoor walks to enjoy.
The cottage is beautifully designed and thoughtfully laid out. Facilities for people with mobility impairments were appreciated, and the wooden balcony overlooking the woods and farmland a lovely touch - just a shame that the weather wasn't better during our stay.
Good location in a rural setting, but close to Tunbridge Wells and main roads.
Giny is a great host.
Well appointed cottage with everything we needed surrounded by beautiful countryside. Great communication with hosts who were really helpful. Well located for walks and things to do. Loved watching the birds feeding in the garden, including morning visits from a woodpecker. Visited the hide,, and though it wasn’t really the weather for bird spotting we did see the ponies!
Leela S.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Dec 2020
Thank you for your review, Leela and we are glad Ed and you enjoyed your stay.
We had a lovely visit at the Flying Horse Cottage: Gorgeous views from both the patio and deck (including lots of deer and bucks in the distance on a few occasions), beautiful walking trails on the doorstep (including to the bird hide), easy access to great farm shop and RT Wells pubs, restaurants, and shops (but also easy to order groceries and meals thru UberEats).We had just about everything we needed inside for self-catering meals. The place was immaculately clean and comfortable, and it was nice to be able to relax inside and watch Netflix and Amazon when the weather was gray.Also loved seeing the neighboring sheep each day, as well as the birds devouring the peanuts in the feeder (we have since acquired a similar feeder ourselves!). Giny and Andrew were always responsive to our needs and extremely kind and accommodating hosts.Tiniest issues were not having a bottle-cap opener (though I'm sure we could have requested one), and frazzled nerves when pulling out of the blind driveway (a roadside mirror might be a good idea?). Highly recommend and would return.
Alexa Y.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Diana G.
19 Feb 2018
A warm and welcomimg cottage, Giny and Andrew were perfect hosts, there for anything we needed
Spacious, very clean and comfortable with everything we needed. set in lovely countryside with just the birds for company, oh and the lovely pony just outside in the field. Lots of extra little touches including some herbal teas and fresh flowers on the table. The 2 outside spaces are great, one gets the sun in the morning and the other in the afternoon/evening. A perfect place to relax.
Diana G.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Mar 2020
Thank you Diana. It.was a pleasure to meet Joe and you and Andrew and I are so glad you enjoyed your stay at the cottage.
This property exceeded all our expectations. The host Ginny was wonderful. The cottage was lovely and well decorated throughout, peaceful, beautiful surroundings, very comfortable beds, great to come home to after a busy day out. Well, kitted out kitchen. Could have stayed a lot longer. Ginny arranged some flowers for our visit on request and we were not disappointed, they were fantastic. Would definitely return.
Dave J.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Verified
6/10 Okay
Caroline O.
6 Dec 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location
It’s in a very picturesque spot but for two of the three mornings from before 8am workman 2 flat back Lorrie’s and cars and vans parking and congregating noisily some 15 meters from the cottage windows. Men very interested in what was happening and plugging a kettle in on the drive around our car. In order for privacy, we had to reclose all the curtains. We felt we were in a builder’s yard. By 8:30 on Wednesday running machinery? Angle grinder, banging down empty barrows etc not restful. They could not help the lack of water in the taps and toilets but the works we could have been warned and decided to cancel or not. Seemingly they knew 2 days before and we were not warned. Oven details oh they are in the bureau ok why not say the only mention is in the content of the bureau in the inventory of the furnishings but not in the how things work. Everything way too high a set of steps with a handle would transform using the kitchen. The fully charged cordless vacuum cleaner was not there only a plug in tucked under a shelf. Ginny Best came to see us an hour before we left to say hallo and goodbye. When asked she said the men were due to be completed the previous week. I pointed out they are invasive it’s not restful and the angle grinder or whatever was very disturbing. Also, we lacked privacy and warning and wondered if our car had been scratched who was responsible. On the face of it very pleasant accommodation but too many do not do this or that and not enough consideration.
Caroline O.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Dec 2025
We recommend readers look at our other reviews to get a better picture of guest's experiences.
Le chalet est très confortable par son design, son mobilier et son équipement. Nous étions trois et c’était parfait. Il est situé entre une réserve naturelle boisée et de grandes étendues herbeuses. Tous les jours, nous voyions circuler une dizaine de cerfs et de biches. Et nous étions voisins de trois moutons :-) Endroit parfait pour se reposer au cœur de la nature et pour circuler dans la magnifique région du Kent.
Francoise D.
Stayed 11 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Aug 2024
Nous sommes ravies que vous ayez appecie votre sejour et esperons que vous reviendrez bientot. Giny and Andrew
Idyllic cottage for exploring the beautiful gardens of Kent. Not too far from Royal Tunbridge Wells down a quiet country lane is this cozy cottage, comfortable seating area, equipped small kitchen and two double bedrooms one with enormous walk-in shower room. Had a very enjoyable stay and would definitely recommend as perfect accommodation to see the beautiful (when it wasn’t raining) countryside reminding you of the tranquility than can be found in The Garden if England
The cottage is in a surprisingly quiet and secluded spot, is not overlooked and has beautiful views out across the countryside. It is easy access to local attractions. The photographs do not do it justice. Is the perfect bolthole to get away from the worries of the world. Hosts are excellent.
Hillary S.
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Jul 2021
Thank you for your kind comments, and we're so glad you enjoyed the cottage and your stay.
The first morning when I got up to draw back the curtains and there was a small heard of wild deer looking back at me in the garden, was something special. The place was so well equipped like a home from home.
John W.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Mar 2020
Thank you John for your review. We're so glad you enjoyed the cottage and surroundings.
Excellent accomodation for 4 with two ensuite bathrooms. Very comfortable beds with the accomodation furnished for 4 with all that you would need. Visiting in January meant that we didnt take advantage of the outside seating but the views from the property are fantastic. Clean and tidy with friendly hosts happy to help in any way they can. Loads to see and do in the area with the cottage being well placed to visit the surrounding towns such as Tunbridge Wells with Canterbury and Ashford not that far away. The cottage has private access to its own bird hide. The surrounding area is a nature lovers paradise withsome great walks. We had Sunday lunch in The George in Frant, good food, good beer and very friendly staff. All in all a relaxing time was had after the Christmas & New Year festivities. Well worth booking!
Clive R.
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Mar 2020
Thank you for your kind review. We enjoyed meeting you all and are so glad you had a relaxing and enjoyable stay in the cottage. Hope to see you all again!
About the host
Hosted by Giny Best
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests