Blackthorn
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→Overview
1 bedroom
2 bathrooms
2 guests
2 nights minimum
Cottage
The Blackthorn holiday cottage is a luxurious retreat for two. It is attached to the owner's home situated on the edge of Icklesham village near the ancient towns of Winchelsea and Rye with a distant view of the sea, and surrounded by beautiful AONB countryside. It has a private, south facing verandah, ideal for soaking up the ambience of this peaceful setting, and guests are welcome to use the family's heated, indoor swimming pool and outdoor hot tub throughout their stay. Home-grown seasonal vegetables, herbs and free range eggs are offered free of charge when available. However, if self-catering is not your style then there are two award winning pubs in the village, and a variety of restaurants to suit most tastes in the nearby town of Rye.<BR>Blackthorn has a 2 x night minimum stay po...
House Rules
Pets not allowedNot suitable for kidsNo smoking
Bedrooms
1 Full1 Crib
Bathrooms
1 Attached (ensuite)1 Shower
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Reviews (109)
G Simpson
2 contributions
A rural idyll close to Rye
This is an exceptional place and one to which we look forward to returning at some point. Communication was great, the hosts charming and everything in the place thought about and as described so there was nothing we wanted for. On top of that the location is exquisite; down a country lane with 3 friendly sheep in the field next to the pathway from the car and amazing views, yet only a 10/15 minute drive to Rye. And top that with use of a great swimming pool and hot tub. Thank you Peter and Karen.
Visited June 2024
Written June 22, 2024. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
rebecca h
London, United Kingdom17 contributions
Amazing retreat!
What a beautiful place! As soon as you arrive you know its going to be a 100% relaxing trip! The cottage, the views and the facilities were all perfect and spotlessly clean! Karen and Peter were both very welcoming and were helpful with their recommendations. I would also like to express our gratitude for how compassionate they were when we had to move our trip from earlier in the year. Everything was just perfect!
Visited August 2023
Written August 24, 2023. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Jeanette B
1 contribution
Blackthorn luxury cottage
Our stay for a long weekend at Blackthorn was more than we could have hoped for. Before we arrived, our hosts were both helpful and attentive in communicating with us. We were then so pleased with each thoughtful detail that followed and had even left a card and local beers knowing we were celebrating my husbands birthday!
From the fantastic facilities to the scenic surroundings we were able to enjoy a fun-filled and relaxing mini-break away.
You almost certainly need a car to get out and about to explore. Rye, Camber Sands, Hastings and St Leonards on Sea not too far away and well worth a visit!
However there were a couple of great pubs which were within walking distance and lots of local walks 😊👍
We’d certainly love to come back again in the not so distant future!
Visited March 2023
Written March 28, 2023. This review is the subjective opinion of an individual traveler and not of Tripadvisor LLC nor of its partners. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Amison
1 contribution
Peaceful, beautiful place
The cottage was beautiful, and the owners generous. The pool and hot tub were well maintained, and the surrounding areas were great to explore. We loved visiting Rye, Winchelsea and other local places, where there was plenty to see and do. Thanks again for a lovely peaceful holiday
Visited April 2022
Written April 16, 2022. This review is the subjective opinion of an individual traveler and not of Tripadvisor LLC nor of its partners. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Hayley P
1 contribution
Did not disappoint
My boyfriend and I had a lovely time at Blackthorn for his early 40th Birthday getaway. Peter and Karen were friendly, welcoming and very informative. We enjoyed the use of the pool, the hot tub and watching the rabbits and squirrels running around the garden. We would highly recommend if you are looking for a lovely and quiet retreat.
Visited August 2021
Written August 22, 2021. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Rebecca K
2 contributions
Superb. Book it! You'll not be disappointed
Peter and Karen have created a little bit of heaven for guests to use. a hot tub and pool all to yourself, it's amazing. We'll defo be back. Its a lovely spot, quiet and rural and close to Rye etc.
Visited October 2020
Written October 26, 2020. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Laura W
1 contribution
Lovely relaxing weekend break!
Beautiful location, clean and cosy accommodation, fantastic hosts! Would thoroughly recommend Blackthorn to anyone. Stunning setting and located within short driving distance of nearby towns Winchelsea and Rye. The maps and information in the porch regarding surrounding towns/attractions were very helpful! Thank you Peter for a wonderful stay and for the eggs and bubbly!
Visited February 2020
Written February 11, 2020. This review is the subjective opinion of an individual traveler and not of Tripadvisor LLC nor of its partners. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Peter Spencer
It was lovely to host you Laura. Yes, we are very well located for so many places, I think. Not far from the coast, and boasting 3 x different coastlines within 10 miles: sand and dunes, pebble and groynes, and clifftops of Oak woods, areas of gorse and bracken; and then of course inland there are many beautiful and historic villages and towns, castles, and country houses with stunning gardens... Best to you and Dan, and I hope you'll think of coming back some day. Peter & Karen.
Written February 20, 2020. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MCouri
London, United Kingdom
An incredibly relaxing weekend!
We just came back from Blackthorn, and what a lovely weekend it was.
Peter and Karen’s immaculate service started even before our stay, upon booking they got in touch and sent us a brochure on the local area and detailed instructions on how to get to Balckthorn.
We were delayed to get in and Peter made sure everything was ready for us and kept constant contact.
The place looked clean and tidy and to our surprise there was a bottle of bubbly waiting for us we we’re celebrating our wedding anniversary.
The cottage was so cosy, we had complimentary logs for the wood burner and eggs from local chickens.
After a day out exploring on Saturday we were able to enjoy the pool and hot tub, a very relaxing way to end our day.
We didn’t go out for evening meals as we really wanted to enjoy the place, but Peter had given us lots of lovely tips if we wanted to go out.
The location is great with lots to see.
We feel that 2 days wasn’t enough and already look forward to returning to one of Peter’s properties!!
Visited December 2019
Written December 22, 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of an individual traveler and not of Tripadvisor LLC nor of its partners. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Peter Spencer
Yes please think of returning Michelle and Tharsis, and for a little longer next time. Blackthorn is ideal for eating in with its oven, hob, and microwave, and as you're on holiday there is a dishwasher too to make life easier. We're glad the anniversary break was a success, and it seems that you spent your weekend well: time to relax and time to get out and explore too.Thanks for leaving the a great review! Peter & Karen.
Written February 20, 2020. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tappleton
2 contributions
Rye trip
Wonderful host, gave us all the info we needed about the local area and then left us to enjoy our stay. Wonderful place to stay at, made full use of the pool and hot tub which were both lovely. We got a bit unlucky with the weather but still thoroughly enjoyed our stay!
Visited December 2019
Written December 17, 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of an individual traveler and not of Tripadvisor LLC nor of its partners. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Peter Spencer
Hello Tom and Celeste, many thanks for leaving a review for Blackthorn. I'm disappointed when guests experience bad weather - it seems so unfair, but the consolation is that we have the heated indoor pool complete with volleyball net etc. Despite the rain and wind, Rye - the lovely ancient and historic town close by, is a great place to find interesting old shops to rummage through, and with it's plentiful eateries you can graze throughout the day, keeping out of much of the wind and rain too... We hope to see you again sometime. Peter & Karen.
Written February 20, 2020. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Samantha D
1 contribution
Stunning place to stay
When we arrived we had a warm welcome. We walked in to a beautiful place to stay it was clean and tidy and the log fire looked especially inviting.
We were told what rules that apply from the pool and jacuzzi. There was a letter on the side also telling these rules. There was eggs left from there hens and ducks.
The view was beautiful even in the winter months. With walks to the Robin Hood pub and the queens head.
Couldn’t fault our trip there x
Visited December 2019
Written December 3, 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of an individual traveler and not of Tripadvisor LLC nor of its partners. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Peter Spencer
Hi Samantha and Jordan. Many thanks for the glowing review. We're glad your winter Blackthorn break was a success. Please try and return in the summer as this area is bursting with places to visit and things to do, or just relax on the sun loungers provided, enjoy the pool and hot tub in the sunshine, or some of the out door games supplied...? Thanks again, Peter.
Written February 20, 2020. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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What this rental offers
Bathroom and laundry
- Dryer
- Iron
- Hot tub
- Linens provided
- Towels provided
- Washer
Living spaces
- Highchair
Parking
- Parking available
Nearby
- Golf course (within 30 mins drive)
- Horse riding facilities
- Tennis court
- Hiking areas
- Countryside area
Things to do
- Fishing spots available
- Watersports
- Cycling areas
Kitchen and dining
- Grill
- Dishwasher
- Freezer
- Refrigerator
- Kettle
- Microwave
- Stove
- Toaster
Scenic views
- Ocean views
Indoor amenities
- Central heating
- Fireplace
- Internet access
- Private indoor pool
- Cable television
Outdoor amenities
- Balcony
- Terrace
Entertainment
- DVD player
- Stereo system
Wi-fi and internet
- Wi-fi
Map
Getting there
Heathrow Airport
61.8 mi
Lydd Intl Airport
12.3 mi
Restaurants
Monellis Sourdough Gourmet Pizza
5 mi
Rye Waterworks Micropub
4.3 mi
Ladle Hastings
4.9 mi
Fletchers House
4.3 mi
Attractions
Bizarre But True!
5 mi • History Museums
St. Thomas the Martyr
2.4 mi • Churches & Cathedrals
Alexandra Park
4.8 mi • Playgrounds
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
4.9 mi • Nature & Wildlife Areas
About the neighborhood
Blackthorn is situated halfway between the Old town of Hastings with its tall, black, net huts, and large fleet of fishing boats, quaint streets, and seaside novelties, and the ancient town of Rye full of smuggling history, cobbled streets, and impressive town houses. Both towns have a range of activities throughout the year celebrating various local customs, while closer to home the beautiful town of Winchelsea is overflowing with a unique charm and local history. Icklesham itself is situated along the main A259 - convenient for most destinations, and has two award winning pubs, a good quality farm shop on the outskirts, and a well stocked village shop located on the main road.
Access
Car advised
How to get there
The village of Icklesham lies between Hastings to the west, and Rye to the east, and is on the A259 (main holiday route). Watermill Lane is on the south side of the A259 Hastings/Rye road, about half way through the village. The Robin Hood Public House is on its corner. We are the second driveway on the right hand side coming from The Robin Hood - an unmade track leading to Beech House (us) and a smaller, brick built cottage called Roughters Cottage. We are the black timber buildings set back on the right beyond a small car park (and pedestrian gate) that is entirely for your use.<BR>Blackthorn is again on the right opposite the Pool Room. <BR>
Activities nearby
Fishing spots availableGolf course (within 30 mins drive)Horse riding facilitiesTennis courtWatersports
About this property
- First, check the Availability tab on this page to see if your dates are available. If they are, contact the owner via the Tripadvisor Rental Inbox to confirm availability.
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This property is affiliated with All bookings are direct with the owner
Property #HL222204430
Frequently Asked Questions about Blackthorn
- Blackthorn is able to accommodate up to 2 guests. See all property details.
- Blackthorn has 2 bathrooms available. See all property details.
- Blackthorn has one bedroom available. See all property details.
- Stays at Blackthorn must last at least 2 nights. See all property details.