A magical country home in the High Weald AONB, where great gardens and period charm combine
It’s hard not to be charmed by Old Barklye in East Sussex. Draped in Wisteria and accessed through a dramatic arched hedge way, this bucolic family home offers the ultimate hidden sanctuary, with wonderful interiors and even better gardens. James Fisher takes a look.


Enveloped by the picturesque countryside of the High Weald AONB, wisteria-clad Old Barklye sits in a semi-rural position between the charming villages of Broad Oak and Burwash Common.
It’s now on the market via Hamptons for £1.395 million.
Exuding period charm, the property offers four bedrooms over its two floors, but the real magic comes from the elegant garden and grounds, which extend to more than an acre.
The focal point is the swimming pool, around which are arranged various outbuildings that currently serve as barns, workshops, studio spaces and storage facilities, but could easily be converted with the necessary consents.
The surrounding gardens are awash with colourful flowerbeds, shrubs and hedgerows, as well as a wooded glade with a path mown through it and an elegant pond with overhanging trees.
Internally, the accommodation is bright and immaculately presented, with tasteful renovation works used to elevate the spaces. A cream wood burner sits within an inglenook fireplace with windows in the dining room, whilst the kitchen exudes country farmhouse charm with dark wood units, tiled floors and exposed beams.
Situated between two villages, the property enjoys a level of tranquillity, yet is only two and a half miles from the town of Heathfield where there are a range of amenities.
Exquisite houses, the beauty of Nature, and how to get the most from your life, straight to your inbox.
The High Weald Area of Natural Beauty surrounds the property, providing endless walks and exceptional views, and good transportation links mean the nearby coast and surrounding towns are easily reached.
Old Barklye is currently on the market via Hamptons for £1.395 million — see more pictures or enquire with the agent for further details.
Credit: Strutt and Parker
Best country houses for sale this week
An irresistible West Country cottage and a magnificent Cumbrian country house make our pick of the finest country houses for

James Fisher is the Digital Commissioning Editor of Country Life. He writes about motoring, travel and things that upset him. He lives in London. He wants to publish good stories, so you should email him.
-
Five years, 10,400 miles and a boatload of stories: Mark Ashley-Miller on the Country Life Podcast
Mark Ashley-Miller, the man who sailed to every harbour in Britain and Ireland, joins the Country Life Podcast.
By Toby Keel Published
-
Country Life 17 September 2025
Country Life 17 September 2025 looks at the best homes for sale in the Cotswolds, indulges in country kitchens and examines Britain's Roman legacy.
By Country Life Published
-
A 500-year-old cottage in West Sussex that's as beautiful as you could ever hope to see, with a pool ringed by flowers, stables and a croquet lawn
James Fisher was in need of some balm for the soul when he came across Woodshill House.
By James Fisher Published
-
A Clarkson's Farm of one's own: Five properties with just enough farmland for you and your family, from under £1 million
Moving to the country is one thing; moving to the country and being able to grow and rear all your own food is another level entirely, and all these properties offer exactly that.
By Arabella Youens Published
-
Six superb homes, from chocolate box cottages to grand Tudor mansions, as seen in Country Life
Our regular round-up includes charming home counties houses and superb grand country house in Ireland.
By Toby Keel Published
-
A billionaire's thatched cottage is for sale in Surrey, once owned by the oil magnate J. Paul Getty
Chestnut Cottage is a joyous little home — albeit one with the most unusual bedrooms to acreage to price balances we've ever seen. Toby Keel takes a look inside.
By Toby Keel Published
-
Medieval Italian? 19th century French? 16th century German? You're spoilt for choice if you're looking to buy a gorgeous continental castle
From hills of Italy to a Bavarian palace, Toby Keel takes a look at three of the finest castles for sale across Europe today.
By Toby Keel Published
-
How to buy a house at auction
Buying at auction can mean you secure your dream property for a bargain price, but preparation is the key
By Annabel Dixon Last updated
-
The homes of two 1980s TV icons are both up for sale at the same time
The houses where Bob Monkhouse and Sir Terry Wogan spent decades of their lives are currently on the market. Annabel Dixon takes a look.
By Annabel Dixon Published
-
Living on the edge? A lighthouse for sale on a clifftop on one of the most remote islands in Britain
Bressay Lighthouse was built by the father and uncle of the 'Treasure Island' author.
By Rosie Paterson Published