Pekes Manor Review

Pekes, Hailsham, Sussex BN27 4AD

Review: I arrived at Pekes Manor as the sun started to set at 4pm. The house is situated in rural East Sussex and is the largest of a collection that form the Pekes estate. Dating back from 1550 it has stood the test of time extremely well and has an astonishing collection of rooms that feel steeped in history. In my opinion what makes the house so special is that, rather that being gutted and re-furnished, much of the interior is original and there for visitors to enjoy. It has not been 'sanitised' for rental and there is a wonderful atmosphere. The dining room can seat all 18 guests and the kitchen/scullery with Aga can easily cater for them all. The house's Achilles' heel is a lack of sitting room space (the room is only small) but as long as you're happy to sit around in the kitchen or dining room that should not be a problem. Upstairs the bedrooms are charming and comfortable. All are of a size fitting to the house, large enough to be airy but not vast. The modern-day bathroom was not around in the 1550s so all have had to be added more recently and, as with most houses, they number less than the bedrooms. From the website;

There are 8 double bedrooms and 4 bathrooms (2 with bath, WC and basin, 2 with modern shower, WC and basin).

The facilities include all that you could ask for, indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, tennis court and badminton lawn. They are shared with the other five properties on the estate though can be booked for exclusive use on an hourly basis. Privacy is reasonable and plenty for a family gathering or birthday party (though perhaps not an 18th!) - given how many repeat bookings are received previous visitors must be very happy. The location is also superb; Landed Houses' closest property to London yet still with a rural feel. Pekes Manor itself sleeps 18 and with all the additional properties 50 can be accommodated - a great collection.