Lush, undulating fields of kermit-green, tanned a rich red hue come summertime; fringes of forests the barn owls and jenny wrens call home. Do campsite settings come more idyllic than this? Nestled deep in the heart of 1066 Country, the 200 acre Pickham Farm plays host to the lovely Lander family's über-luxurious Freshwinds Camping. This scenic setting sits equidistant from both Rye and Hastings – two of East Sussex's most enchanting enclaves.
First-time camper? Think this 'great outdoors' lark is all tangled-up tent and midge-repellant? Then Freshwinds is the spot for you. There's a wealth of accommodation options on offer to suit all tastes, group sizes and budgets. Sat atop a spacious decking area (with seating and a firepit), the darling Shepherd's Hut is ideal for couples. Comfortably sleeping two on a proper double bed (fluffy pillows and duvet included), this cosy abode sits nice and secluded, but just two minutes from the farmhouse where you'll find flush-toilet, shower and washing up area (you'll also find a compost loo nearer the hut). It comes with a great little kitchenette equipped with all the basics you could need, while the wood-burning stove keeps things nice and toasty at night.
For larger groups looking to bring a flavour of the east to East Sussex, Freshwinds boasts a couple of twin Mongolian-style yurts. The Owl Yurt sits beside a tranquil pond and enjoys unheeded views over the valley. The Woodland Yurt is actually two yurts – one for living (wood-burning stove, and futons which can easily sleep 6), the other for kipping (sumptuous double bed) – perfect for those seeking sylvan seclusion.
The real gem here though is the tents-only camping field. With space for just 15 pitches, this off-the-grid grassland lies beside a small stream and features even more secluded pitches in a private woodland glade. There's no cars and that buzzing you hear is only the honey bees, not any electric hook-ups. Why not travel light and rent the four-man Freshwinds tipi, complete with wood-burning stove? Best of all, you can admire the unspoilt night sky by the warming glow of your very own campfire.
No matter where you lay your hat, you'll find a care and attention-to-detail throughout. That said, you're still very much aware that you are camping on a bona-fide Sussex farm. Your fellow farm residents include 30 strong herd of suckler cows, a flock of 130 ewes, plus a handful of hens who'll lay your breakfast eggs. You can even sample some of the farm's own meat products, or why not arrange a welcome pack of one-pot meals to heat up on arrival? Ask nicely and gracious hostess Anne might even let you help muck in with the farmyard chores. Just be sure not to get on the wrong side of Harry the Bull. But then again, could one really have a 'wrong side' in a setting so relaxing as Freshwinds?
Freshwinds camping is ideally placed nested deep in the heart of 1066 country, it is equidistant from both Rye and Hastings. The camping field is surrounded on all sides by trees and has a stream running along two sides. The pitches are large and we have two compost toilets, two hot showers and a washing up facilities with hot water.Nature abounds with lots of bird life including owls at night and Jenny wrens who call it home. Best of all you, can admire the unspoilt night sky by the warming glow of your very own camp fire.The gorgeous medieval port town of Rye is just a few minutes' drive from the site. Amble along its quaint cobbled streets, admire its timber-beamed 13th century houses, and marvel at the treasures in its antique shops. On the outskirts, the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve (01797 227 784) plays host to an astonishing array of wetland waders and other coastal birds. Nearby Winchelsea is Rye in miniature – a quintessentially English hamlet, with a beautiful ruined church. Beachwise, Camber Sands lies a short drive away. Its massive expanse and sand dunes are ideal for long blustery walks. Cosmopolitan Hastings is a pleasing mix of traditional seaside charm and a vibrant arts scene. The Jerwood Gallery (01424 728 377) houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, while lovely Hastings Old Town boasts the largest beach-launched fishing fleet in Europe. Explore the ruins of William the Conqueror's first English castle, atop the West Hill. You can take the West Hill Cliff Railway (01424 451 111), the UK's steepest funicular, and enjoy panoramic views over the South Coast. Neighbouring Battle is the site of the pivotal moment in English history. Learn all about the Norman conquest at the English Heritage-run 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield (01424 775 705). If you're camping in October, be sure to attend the annual re-enactment. Just be wary of any arching arrows (as Harold found out to his cost).
Two cracking pubs within walking distance. Head to The Royal Oak (01424 812 515) for a sophisticated yet reasonably-priced menu that boasts the best Sussex produce including fish from the fleets at Hastings and Rye, and meat from Romney Marsh. The Two Sawyers (01424 812 255) is a quintessential 16th century Sussex inn with bucketfuls of character. This Good Pub Guide-approved freehouse offers a healthy selection of ales and single malts. They also do a quiz every Tuesday night.
