Laughton Manor near Lewes dates back to around 1760-1780. One of its greatest assets is the gorgeous Italianate tower, which has stupendous quadruple views towards the downs and the surrounding countryside.
The stone Portico opens into the welcoming vestibule with its mosaic floor which depicts the crest of Sir James Duke Bart, which in turn leads into the magnificent reception hallway with its beautiful oak staircase looking up to the Cupola skylight, which is an amazing sight.
Maria Horne has owned it since May 2013. She says “I fell in love with the wonderful architecture, spacious interior and beautiful surrounding countryside.”
The principle rooms have very high ceilings and are of grand proportions, depicting the amazing marble feature fireplaces, ceiling roses and cornices, which are all of exceptional architectural significance. The bespoke kitchen and breakfast room have stunning views too, and French doors leading out on to the terrace really make the most of them. It’s an ideal spot for outside entertaining or parties on warm summer evenings.
Maria’s favourite thing about it are the “wonderful entertaining rooms and the charming entrance hallway.” She goes on to say that, “although built on a grand scale, the fantastic layout gives Laughton Manor a really warm and cosy, homely feel.”
As for the location, she says it is simply idyllic. “The village of Laughton is full of friendly and charming people, and the nearby towns of Uckfield and Lewes provide ample entertainment and good transport to London and Brighton.”
In terms of local happenings, she says that at Laughton they’re positively spoiled for choice. “There are many festivals, country fairs and events which take place in the area. Laughton Manor is also a short distance away from Glyndebourne and its famous annual opera festival.”
Upstairs the splendid landing leads in turn to the master suite, which is of grand proportions with stunning views, ‘his and hers’ dressing rooms, and an en suite bathroom with freestanding slipper bath strategically placed to enjoy the uninterrupted views of the countryside.
The delightful mature landscaped gardens include a walled garden for those wishing to grow their own produce, and it would also make an excellent croquet lawn or lawn tennis court. The long sweeping driveway passes a charming lake which is stocked with Italian carp. To the south side of the house is a helicopter pad and a pretty one bedroom pump house cottage.
Laughton Manor sits in an elevated position in the centre of its 12 acres of land, and Maria says that she really “couldn’t have been happier” there.
For more details contact Winkworth, Lewes on 01273 471471
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