Sussex Staycations
The Tack Barn at Upper Lodge.
During the summer, Artelium’s wine estate comes alive. The grapes on the vines begin to ripen, the surrounding Sussex countryside becomes lush and verdant, and our terrace becomes the ideal place to enjoy delicious wine and food on sunny afternoons. We’re in the heart of wine country – Sussex’s terroir, climate, glorious countryside and award-winning wines beginning to rival France as a holiday destination.
As the summer gets into full swing, Sussex becomes the ideal spot for holiday makers who want a relaxing stay in the country paired with interesting activities. At Artelium, we’ve got the ‘experiences’ part of your holiday covered, from vineyard tours and tastings.to alfresco drinks and dining. We also have some great suggestions of where to rest your head after a long day of country walks and vineyard experiences.
In this blog we highlight some of our favourite local staycation spots, from refined hotels, charming campsites, characterful pubs and contemporary holiday homes. This beautiful county blends rustic charm with modern comfort — and it's all just an hour from London.
Hotels with Heritage and Heart
Ockenden Manor, Cuckfield Room
Ockenden Manor Hotel & Spa
Cuckfield, 8.0 miles from Artelium
Step back in time at this Elizabethan manor house nestled in eight acres of manicured gardens. With 27 individually designed rooms, a luxurious spa, and an award-winning restaurant, Ockenden Manor is all about relaxed sophistication.
Camping with a Twist
Blackberry Wood, Higgeldy Tree House
Blackberry Wood
Streat, near Ditchling, 1.5 miles from Artelium
For lovers of the weird and wonderful, Blackberry Wood is a playground of outdoor adventure and imaginative glamping. Stay in a converted fire engine, treehouse, vardo caravan, Airstream, or even a "Holicopter." Set at the foot of the South Downs, this family-run campsite is open year-round and offers everything from treehouses to quirky cabins. Expect campfires, woodland walks, and a fairytale feel.
The Macs Farm, Little Owl Field
The Macs Farm
Ditchling, 3.5 miles from Artelium
An organic egg farm turned seasonal campsite, Macs Farm is ideal for families and nature-lovers alike. Enjoy wild meadow camping, bell tents, and a friendly community feel, all while supporting sustainable, ethical farming. You can even pick up fresh eggs and join in on feeding the chickens — a wholesome countryside experience from start to finish.
Charming Holiday Homes
The Dairy at Streat Place Barn
The Dairy at Streat Place Barn
Streat, 1.3 miles from Artelium
A tranquil retreat in a quaint Sussex village, and only a gentle walk away from Artelium Streat Place Barn offers two self-catering options: The Dairy and The Shepherd’s Hut. With views of the South Downs and your own private garden these two holiday stays are the perfect base for country walks, pub lunches, and starry nights. The Dairy is Perfect for 2 guests seeking somewhere relaxing and secluded, it has views onto an apple orchard and access to its own private garden. The Shepherd’s Hut is situated in an enclosed garden ideal for one person or a cosy two-some that are seeking a genuine ‘get away from it all’ experience.
The Tack Barn at Upper Lodge
The Tack Barn at Upper Lodge
Near Lewes, 14 miles from Artelium
Arty and eco-conscious travellers will love the award-winning Tack Barn at Upper Lodge, a beautifully converted stable set in a serene woodland garden. Overlooking a pond and packed with locally crafted furnishings and art, this stylish cottage comes with home-grown produce, sustainable features, and even a chance to hear nightingales sing.
Pubs with Rooms: Cozy and Characterful
The Jolly Sportsman
East Chiltington, 3.9 miles from Artelium
Hidden away down country lanes, The Jolly Sportsman is a real gem. With just four boutique rooms, this pub-stay is perfect for wine-lovers and walkers, thanks to its proximity to vineyards (including Artelium) and South Downs trails. It's dog-friendly and well connected, with easy access to Lewes, Brighton, and Glyndebourne.
Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a trip into Sussex wine country, or a solo digital detox, these stays offer the best of rural England with a modern twist. From historic hotels to fire-engine glamping, you're guaranteed to find somewhere unforgettable to stay.
ABOUT ARTELIUM WINE ESTATE
We’re a contemporary English wine Estate based in the Sussex countryside, where we create fine English wines using traditional methods.
We love sharing our award-winning wine and the land that makes it so special, through our vineyard tours and tastings - or have some delivered to your door from our online wine shop.