Entire home

A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub.

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A wooden building with a garden entrance, potted plants, and a pathway leading to a field. - A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub. (Icklesham)
A bedroom with a bed, two bedside tables, a wardrobe, and a skylight. - A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub. (Icklesham)
A kitchen with an open sliding door leading to a balcony, a microwave, an oven, and a dining area with a table and chairs. - A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub. (Icklesham)
An indoor swimming pool with a wooden ceiling, glass doors leading outside, and a tiled floor. - A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub. (Icklesham)
A cozy living room with a beige sofa, a small wooden table, a television, and a white stove. - A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub. (Icklesham)
At A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub., you can look forward to golfing on-site, a garden and laundry facilities. Adventurous travellers may like the boating and kayaking at this cottage. For some rest and relaxation, visit the hot tub. Stay connected with in-room WiFi, and guests can find other amenities, such as a gym.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom2 bathroomsSleeps 2

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Spa pool
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Gym

Add dates for prices

About this property

A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub.

  • Blackthorn is a luxurious self-catering retreat for two, midway between the towns of Hastings and Rye, attached to the owner’s home with a distant view of the sea, and surrounded by beautiful Sussex countryside. The cottage has a south-facing verandah, ideal for soaking up the ambience of this peaceful setting, and guests have exclusive access to the family’s heated indoor swimming pool and outdoor hot tub between the hours of 8.00am and 8.00pm daily. (These facilities are operational throughout the year). We are also happy to accommodate a young family with one child up to 24 months, and can provide a travel cot and high chair if required.

Property amenities

Pool/Spa

  • Heated pool
  • Hot tub
  • Indoor pool
  • Outdoor pool
  • Private pool

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car recommended
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Stereo
  • TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No lift (single-level property)
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the bay
  • Near the sea

Things to do

  • Boat
  • Golf
  • Gym
  • Heated pool
  • Kayak
  • Tennis
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Garden

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:30 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Return the keys
Departure is 10.00am Monday to Sundays, and 11.00am on Sunday mornings please. Karen and I wish you a safe onward journey.
Please make contact with me, Peter, to let me know your departure plans as it would be nice to say goodbye just before you depart. Thanks.
Please follow the departure instructions on the welcome card, sign the guest book and leave the key in the outside of the door if for some reason we don't get to meet you, thanks.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Despite being situated in a rural location Blackthorn guests need to be considerate of our near neighbour's privacy by keeping noise to a minimum.

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Located in Winchelsea, this cottage is in a rural area and by the sea. Camber Castle and Lamb House are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Mallydams Woods and High Weald. Phoenix Arts Centre and Stables Theatre are also worth visiting. Scuba diving and snorkelling offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and hiking nearby. Visit our Icklesham travel guide
View more Cottages in Icklesham
Map
Icklesham, ENG

What's nearby

  • A Tudor-style building with a steeply pitched roof, large windows, and a symmetrical facade.
    High Weald
    1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • A sunset over a calm sea with a lighthouse in the distance.
    Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
    11 min drive - 11.5 km
  • A traditional brick house with a tiled roof and multiple chimneys, surrounded by well-maintained gardens and hedges.
    Great Dixter House and Gardens
    17 min drive - 18.6 km
  • A beach with sand dunes and grass.
    Camber Sands
    18 min drive - 15.7 km
  • A large medieval castle with multiple towers and a moat surrounding it.
    Bodiam Castle
    20 min drive - 23.0 km

Getting around

  • Hastings Three Oaks Station
    5 min drive
  • Gatwick Airport (LGW)
    102 min drive

Restaurants

  • The Three Oaks Pub
    5 min drive
  • The Mermaid Street Café
    9 min drive
  • The Cove
    11 min drive
  • Big Guys French Fries
    9 min drive
  • Frankie’s @ the beach
    11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub. have a pool?

Yes, this property has an indoor pool and an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub.?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub.?

Check-in begins at 2:30 PM.

What time is check-out at A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub.?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub. located?

Situated by the sea, this cottage is within 3 miles (5 km) of Church of St Thomas a Becket, St. Thomas the Martyr and Mallydams Woods. High Weald and Pett Level Beach are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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Reviews

A luxurious self-catering retreat for two, complete with indoor pool & hot tub. Reviews

10

Exceptional

9.8

Cleanliness

9.8

Location
Rating 10 - Excellent. 34 out of 35 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 35 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 35 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 35 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 35 reviews

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The hosts were amazing and accommodating to us. We had a lovely time celebrating our anniversary and my partners birthday. The views were amazing and the heated pool was lovely. Just what we needed after a hectic few months. We will be visiting again soon!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great time !

Lovely place! Lovely people! Definitely recommend
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Getaway

Greeted by three lovely sheep and the owners Karen and Peter, who were stellar from start to end.The place was very clean, comfortable and exactly as described. Would 100% book this place again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing

What a treat, such a lovely property in the most beautiful setting with the added bonus of stunning views whilst relaxing in the hot tub. The facilities are amazing offering you everything you need. We are thoroughly relaxed and will certainly be returning.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Tranquility

Situated down a lane with countryside views, close to the historical town of Rye. A homely cottage with access to a hot tub and swimming pool set at ideal temperatures. Perfect location for relaxation but within easy access to local towns. Would certainly recommend !
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful hosts and a great holiday home with the addition of the pool and hot tub, made it perfect. Idyllic setting and lots of local places to visit. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a delight, the cottage and location were perfect. The hosts could not have been more helpful. We made use of the hot tub and pool during our stay and left feeling very relaxed.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thoroughly enjoyed using the private on site hot tub and swimming pool! Grateful for all the local information provided
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful restful location, hot tub and swimming pool perfect temperature. Accommodation clean and comfortable everything great. Highly recommended.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely relaxing holiday.Great place, pool, hot tub and host
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a lovely time and used all the facilities, especially the balcony, swimming pool and hot tub. We explored Rye and Hastings, and one of us had a good swim in the sea at Pett Levels.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Love this place. So relaxing hot tub and swimming pool a bonus. Hosts very friendly, location great just 15 mins drive to Hastings and Rye.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect mini break

Loved this place, fantastic value for money, beautiful walks, lovely people, great facilities quiet and relaxing.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Christmas Getway

Lovely weekend in a beautiful property with everything we needed at hand. Great location and really nice hosts.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect anniversary treat!

My Wife and I celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary here. Property was immaculate and the private pool and hot tub were a perfect retreat.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very relaxing and peaceful stay x

What a lovely weekend x Had a lovely time at Blackthorn, hot tub was very relaxing and hot. Peter and Karen were both wonderful hosts. Highly recommend 😁
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely stay

I surprised my partner for a belated birthday present to go here and it was the best decision! Everything was perfect. Couldn’t have asked for more. Would love to return one day.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

2 night break

Quiet location Close to a nice country pub Need your own transport
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A little piece of heaven

Simply wonderful. The accommodation was clean and very comfortable, the views from the property were beautiful and the pool and hot tub were the icing on the cake. The owners made us feel so welcome and were just lovely.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic

The location was quiet and secluded and exclusive use of the pool and hot tub was great. Peter and Karen were very friendly and welcoming. The property is attached to their home but you always feel like you have total privacy. We hired a car and the cottage is very close to historic villages like Rye and Hastings, both well worth a visit. Overall it was excellent and we'd definitely go back
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Midweek retreat stay

Beautiful location in the heart of the East Sussex Countryside. An idyllic treat set in stunning surroundings with personal and sole use of a hot tub and indoor swimming pool.Warmly welcomed by Karen on arrival.Blackthorns is spotlessly clean, has everything you could possibly need.Eggs, milk, biscuits, tea & coffee all supplied.We will definitely be returning and our adult children too.Thank you once again Karen & Peter for our Wonderful stay.
Grounds that Blackthorn is set in!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wow!!!!

We arrived later than the usual check in time but that was no issue. Peter was there to escort us and show us around and he had an amazing knowledge of the area and where we could visit. The property was sparkling clean, the bed massive and very comfortable, the amenities great and a real haven for our anniversary. Nothing was too much bother for our host and it felt great knowing if we needed anything we could ask. Had a lovely pub meal at The Queens Head which was a short walk from the property. We had the best weekend break for our Anniversary and have already said we would like to come back for longer in 2023. Amazing place, fantastic host - just what we needed
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect getaway

We were impressed the miniute we saw Blackthorn Lodge. The property is very clean and modern. The lodge itself was bigger than expected and a super king size bed! Amazing! It was a birthday celebration (a big birthday) and was overwhelmed with a card and prosecco from Peter & Karen. The hot tub & pool are literally outside the lodge were brilliant, although the house is next door we never felt we were overlooked. Peter was a brilliant host, ideas for places to visit and very accomodating for any requests we had. Visited the Robin Hood pub just 5 minutes walk up the road, very nice. Will be recommending Blackthorn to many friends and family. A great place to stay, would love to come again. Thank you Peter & Karen!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic stay in a wonderful location

This property is in an a wonderful location. The facilities with access to private indoor pool and hot tub are great. The hosts go out of their way to make your stay the best it can be with tips on where to go. We will definitely be back
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great get away

Lovely place with great host
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022