I stayed in a dreamy 300-year-old thatched cottage — and you can too
Squirrelled away in the West Sussex village of Amberley, this 17th-century thatched cottage is a pocketful of luxury filled with old-world charm.
Olea tells a sweet tale of craftsmanship and nostalgia, boasting golden stone walls, traditional windows, a clawtop tub for long soaks, roaring fireplace, vintage finds, vaulted ceilings, and a charming idyllic location.
If it's English thatch appeal that you crave, Olea has it in abundance.
After a challenging few months following the loss of a family member, I was on the hunt for a weekend staycation to reset with loved ones — and knew Olea was perfect the moment I first walked past it on a visit to Amberley last year.
Olea's village location promises fairytale magic. This is true of the inside too, offering a living room centred around the wood burner, small rustic kitchen, and dining area overlooking the private courtyard garden.
A plush velvet sofa in shades of mustard provides the ultimate spot for relaxation after a day of walking, while the record player, digital radio, and smart speaker offer endless entertainment. I also spotted a stack of dog beds and blankets under the stairs.
Every corner is brimming with antiques, from books on birds to knick-knacks displayed on wooden shelves. The dining table bench is a refurbished church pew (topped with cushions for comfort), while an old cast iron kettle sits beside the fire for making tea the old way.
Despite these vintage touches, it feels as luxurious as a high-end hotel. Bramley soaps sit on every sink, personalised mugs await your arrival, and a generous hamper is stacked with wine, nibbles, and local produce.
There are two bedrooms inside: a master bedroom on the ground floor and a second bedroom set on the mezzanine level. Both offer sumptuous sheets, tones of cream and dusty pink, and exposed wooden beams (be careful not to bang your head walking up to the mezzanine).
The only bathroom is set on the ground floor next to the master bedroom. Finished with exposed brick and stone, it has a roll-top bath with a shower overhead, underfloor heating, and rustic fixtures and fittings. Lovely touches like the pot of bath salts on the shelf add a homely feel.
Behind the cottage, there are plenty of beautiful footpaths, bridleways, pubs, and walkways leading to scenic streets filled with cottages. Don't leave without sampling the homemade scones at the Amberley Village Tearoom — pack one up to try at home if you don't have time.
I ended my trip with a walk to The Bridge Inn pub, situated beside Amberley station. Overlooking the South Downs, it's the best for real ales, homecooked food, and a good glass of local wine.
Olea a self-catering cottage available to book via Boutique Retreats. From £836 for a long weekend or mid-week break.
Take a look around the cottage...
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