Thanks to Charissa from Portland, Oregon, for sharing this kid-friendly English farmstay located about an hour from London. She says:
Our family of four (two daughters, ages 18 months and 4 years) travelled to the south of England for my husband's grandfather's 90th birthday. We met up with my husband's parents and brothers, along with their families, and we all stayed at this self-catering property, located about an hour's drive from London. The nearest airport is London Gatwick.
The property has a number of self-catering units of varying size located in the refurbished stable house of the farm. The furnishings and decor are basic but perfectly adequate, and the kitchens are fully equipped for most cooking needs. There are cribs and high chairs available upon request. There is a coin laundry as well.
The units are situated in a "U" shape around an open courtyard, which includes a grassy patch, and this provides an easy place for kids to play. When we were there, they even had some pedal cars that our girls enjoyed. The farm itself is working, so there are cows to see, along with chickens, farm dogs, and peacocks. There is also a pool on the farm grounds, which is open in summer.
The area around the farm has lots to offer as well. The farm is located at the foot of the South Downs, with plenty of walking trails. We saw lots of bird life, rabbits and foxes on our many walks. There is an awesome playground in Storrington, and there are many museums, historical sites such as castles, other farms, and gardens within easy quick driving distance. Storrington has pretty much anything a family might need, including a mid-sized grocery store, a variety of restaurants, and some fun shops for poking around.
You can reach London by car or, better yet, by train. There is a train station about fifteen minutes by car from the farm.
We have visited Storrington a number of times to visit family, and have stayed at the Sullington Manor Farm twice now. We love to stay at the farm and our girls love it too. We've stayed in London, and much prefer staying in the country. The scenery is beautiful, and the farm offers the comforts of home.
Sullington Manor Farm, Storrington, West Sussex. Tel: 011-44-1903-745754; Self-catering units sleeping two to six people, about $392-$992 per week.
