Somewhere for the weekend

Enjoy a break in Sussex

Nestled in the middle of the South Downs National Park is the stunning Cowdray Estate. The 16,500-acre estate includes the ruins of Cowdray Heritage – an early Tudor house steeped in history and visited by both King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I, before being largely destroyed by fire in 1793. With polo lawns, a farm shop and café, and beautiful holiday homes, the estate is an ideal bolthole for enjoying a country break. There are four recently redeveloped holiday cottages on offer, and our favourite is the spacious two-bedroom Broomhill, featuring a sleekly refurbished open-plan kitchen and living area, as well as a lovely terrace with a barbecue looking out towards the picturesque Benbow Pond, a great sundowner spot. Guests are given free entry to the famed Cowdray polo matches as well as a welcome breakfast pack.

The Farm Shop and Café is a lovely alternative to cooking your own lunch. Local suppliers are used whenever possible, and the beef, lamb and venison are reared on the estate itself. There are also plenty of

bars, restaurants and country pubs to explore in nearby Midhurst and the surrounding areas.

For a tasty after-dinner treat, head to the Farm Shop to pick up some local Riseley, a washed-rind sheep’s milk cheese. The shop also stocks many local products, including beers from Langham Brewery, sparkling wines from Upperton vineyard and smoked trout from Charlie’s Trout. A range of eco-conscious homeware is also stocked, including a selection of Weaver Green rugs, made from recycled plastic bottles. Around 400 polo matches are played on the Cowdray Park lawns each summer so be sure to watch a few, or have a go yourself at the Polo Academy. Golf, clay pigeon shooting and fishing are all available, too, as well as superb guided wildlife tours from local ranger Barry.