The Challoners

Pootling around on the farm and in its surroundings is a lovely way to spend time, but there’s plenty around if you want to explore further. Bodiam Boating Station (20 minutes’ drive) is the place to hire boats and canoes to paddle on the River Rother, or you may like to head to The Hub @ Quarry Farm (15 minutes) for watersports, archery, outdoor fitness classes or spa treatments. Heading south, it won’t take long to get to the coast for a stroll around the ancient town of Rye or a game of crazy golf and a chip supper in Hastings (both 25 minutes). Camber Sands (35 minutes) is a good place for a paddle and a scramble through the sand dunes. For other options, take a look at walks in Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest (15 minutes), history-themed days at Battle Abbey and the 1066 Battle of Hastings site (10 minutes) or a wander around Rudyard Kipling’s former home at Bateman’s (15 minutes). Gardens like Pashley Manor Gardens (10 minutes) and Sissinghurst Castle Garden (half an hour) are close by too.