Hidden ancient cottage in picture-perfect village is a ‘world first’ | UK | Travel

Tucked away within the South Downs National Park is a historic village steeped in history which is the ideal day trip away from busy life.

With its quintessentially English cottages, stone houses and titled streets, this village is not only picture-perfect but also acts as the ideal stopgap for exploration while taking those who visit on a journey back through time.

With The South Downs Way passing right through the village, there are scenic hikes on its doorstep and vast expanses of countryside just a short walk away.

Alfriston, in East Sussex, is a place well worth a visit for those that love nothing more than the simplicities of village life and catching a glimpse of what days once looked like all those years ago.

When paying a visit to Alfriston, travellers can enjoy two historic and cosy pubs. The first being The Star, a 14th-century inn that started out as a religious hotel for pilgrims, and Ye Olde Smugglers Inne, a 19th-century smugglers spot that now is the place to stop for a pint.

Although what draws plenty of visitors into this historic village is one building in particular, which became a world first as the first ever property to be bought by the National Trust.

The National Trust is the largest conservation charity on the continent, with the purpose of protecting and preserving historic buildings, sites and natural beauty across the UK, most of which are open for the public to learn from and explore.

But its journey with buildings first began when it bought Alfriston Clergy House, the first building to ever be saved by the trust, in 1896.

The house

Over the years the building has seen several changes and renovations to become the picturesque house seen today with views across the River Cuckmere.

Although its origins date as far back as the 15th century, with the intention of being a residence for the parish priest of the neighbouring 14th-century St Andrew’s Church.

Now, it remains a beautiful cottage with art at the heart of its purpose, thanks to architect Alfred Powell, who oversaw the repairs, with a deep knowledge of traditional arts and crafts. Because of this, over the course of this time it has seen a number of figures from that world attend the house, such as designer C.R. Ashbee and artist Muirhead Bone.

Visitors who do not have a National Trust membership can expect to pay £10 for a standard adult entry ticket and £5 for children under 5. Family tickets cost £25, while a one adult family ticket is £15.

After seeing the beauty of the cottage, one visitor left a Google review: “One of the nicest NT locations. Quite small but a lot of history. And the neighbouring village is super cute. A perfect day out.”

Another shared: “Wow! Found this amazing gem while spending time at Birling Gap. The history of this place is fantastic; the knowledge and helpfulness of the volunteers is brilliant!

“The place is quite small, so you will only need about an hour or maybe 2 to look around. Found the carved oak leaf being the inspiration for the NT logo – particularly inspiring!”