3 bed detached house for sale

Bedham, Fittleworth, West Sussex RH20

Believed to date from the 1600s, TThis picturesque Grade II listed cottage has been meticulously and sensitively restored by its current owners, preserving its historic character while being thoughtfully updated for modern living. The kitchen sits to the rear of the cottage and retains its original red brick flooring and exposed beams. It has a beautifully hand-built kitchen with wooden work tops, built-in appliances and a marble dining table.

The south-facing sitting and dining room has a generous dining area centred around a raised fireplace with solid oak flooring and underfloor heating running throughout. At the far end, a broad yet inviting living space is defined by a wonderful original inglenook fireplace. Tucked behind, a separate TV room and snug provides a more intimate retreat, with a pitched roof, exposed stonework and a built-in library.

A beautifully appointed bathroom with high ceilings is set on the ground floor, with exposed stone and brickwork, timber beams and tiled flooring with underfloor heating. A classic roll-top bath with shower is positioned to enjoy views over the garden.

A set of wooden stairs leads from the dining area to the first floor where there are three well-proportioned double bedrooms. The principal bedroom has an original fireplace, an en suite WC and sink.

Gardens and Grounds
The grounds of The Orchards are a perfect accompaniment to such a charming cottage. Beautifully maintained while balancing an abundance of flora and fauna, they capture the true essence of a traditional cottage garden. The stunning front and side gardens, designed by landscape architect Tom Stuart-Smith obe (multiple Chelsea Gold Medal winner), feature carefully tended borders, topiary and winding paved paths.

To the rear, the gardens open into a more naturalistic setting, mainly laid to lawn and centred around a swimming pool designed to sit harmoniously within its surroundings, framed by mature trees and shrubbery. Two ponds, a gentle stream and a wildflower meadow further enhance the sense of tranquillity. An orchard produces a rich variety of seasonal fruit, including apples, quinces, Cornelian cherry and plums, alongside ornamental specimens such as saucer magnolia, Japanese maple, oaks and Chinese witch hazel.

In addition, a range of outbuildings complements the property, including 'The Barn', which accommodates a games room and bathroom with a separate utility room.

A car barn provides further practical space, with two bays, one enclosed, and a boarded loft above for additional storage.

Despite its sense of seclusion, the cottage is approximately 1 hour 40 minutes from London by car, with mainline train connections from Pulborough (approximately 12 minutes drive away) to London Victoria in 1 hour 20 minutes. Gatwick airport is approximately 45 minutes by car.

Well positioned for exploring the South Downs, the house is also within easy reach of Goodwood Estate and Cowdray Park, making it an ideal base for both countryside escapes and seasonal events. The local market town of Petworth, home to Petwoth House, is full of independent shops including an excellent book shop and is a celebrated hub for the antique industry. An excellent local pub, the Swan Inn in Fittleworth dates back to the 14th Century and was once a retreat for the likes of Turner and Constable now a proper village pub and boutique inn serving seasonal food and local ales.

Services
We are advised by our clients that the property has mains water and electricity, private drainage, lpg gas-fired central heating, and an air-source heat pump for the swimming pool.

Fittleworth 2.6 miles, Wisborough Green 4 miles, Petworth 4 miles, Pulborough 7 miles (London Victoria 80 minutes), Billingshurst 8 miles (London Victoria 64 minutes), Haslemere 14 miles (London Waterloo 56 minutes), Chichester 19 miles, Guildford 22 miles, London 51 miles (Distances and times are approximate)