The Two Friars

Two individual apartments in the guest wing of this stunning period building, these elegant homes can be rented together by larger groups or two families looking to escape to the Sussex coast together. In a spectacular setting, they're part of a Grade II Listed mansion that dates from 1819 and face the ivy-clad ruins of a 13th Century abbey. Definitely a place for lovers of historical architecture, it also happens to be within half an hour's walk of Winchelsea's quiet beach and the beautiful nature reserve of Rye Harbour.

With one on the ground floor and the other on the first floor, each apartment has two bedrooms, along with cosy living rooms, modern kitchens and dining spaces. Fully updated but retaining charming period details like the fireplaces, ornate cornice and stone mullion windows, they're both beautifully put together with great attention to detail. We love the upstairs apartment's long balcony, where double doors open it up to the living room and both bedrooms, and we're big fans of the super stylish bathrooms.

There's a real surprise outside, with private, fenced gardens for both homes, outdoor furniture and barbecues. And best of all each comes with its own log-fired hot tub – perfect for a long soak after a day playing on the beach.

Nearby you can walk the ancient streets of Rye, packed with shops and great places to eat, play golf or walk your dog on the beaches. Even the famous dunes of Camber Sands are within easy reach. Or stay closer to home, tour the neighbouring vineyard, walk to the local farm shop and book yourselves on a 'cellar tour' of this town's medieval undercrofts.


Home truths:
*The two master beds are zip and link, so they can be arranged as twins if required – let your host know which you'd prefer
*The built-in bunk bed in the ground-floor apartment's second bedroom sleeps one guest
*Cots and high chairs can be provided for little ones
*There's off-road parking for four cars
*An initial basket of logs is provided and more can be bought from your host
*One dog (no cats) is permitted in each home, but must stay off the furniture and out of the bedrooms
*There's laptop-friendly workspace here