Whether you are looking for rustic charm near the city, or somewhere a little more remote, there’s an array of different cabins to choose from in Sussex. In fact, with so many high ratings and super hosts on Airbnb, it can be difficult to make to a decision. That’s why we have provided our pick of the best for those looking for solo work retreats, romantic getaways or a family staycation.
Remote working hideaway, Brighton
If you don’t want to be too far from the entertainments of Brighton, this spacious en-suite summer house is the cabin for you. Located near Stanmer Park and Lewes Road, you’ll be able to get everything you need from the nearby Aldi.
This is a simple pine-wood cabin, fully-heated and comes with Wi-Fi. It looks onto a beautiful wild garden where you can pick fresh herbs. The friendly and welcoming owner is a herbalist and is happy to give advice about the herbs and diet to suit you. Inside the cabin is a comfy bed, wardrobe, chest of drawers, kettle, toaster, small cooking facility, hot shower, sink and toilet. Additionally, there is access to a shared kitchen with utilities in the main building if required and your laundry can be done for you.
This is a great little hideaway with good access to public transport and is particularly well suited for anyone who wants to go away on a solo work retreat. Checking in after 9pm will see an additional charge of £15.
Check AvailabilityGreenfield Lodge, Brighton
Only a short drive to the stunning Devil’s Dyke, this beautiful and beautifully situated cabin is also close to the Historic Lewes Castle, Firle Place and Anne of Cleaves House. Painted a charming aquamarine on the outside, the inside of this cabin has a modern decor with a sophisticated combination of soft shades of grey, paired with homely furniture to create a modern open plan lounge area. The cabin comes fully equipped with kitchenette, bathroom with shower, king size bed, one single bed and one sofa bed.
The cabin sleeps 1-4 people and there is an additional £15 pet charge. Situated on the hilltop of landscaped garden, there are superb views over stunning meadows in the distance, creating a tranquil and memorable setting. The patio and garden space is gated and secure, so you can BBQ in the starlight in safety. There’s also access to Wi-Fi and full amenities for business people for a short or long stay.
Check AvailabilityApple Tree Cabin, South Downs National Park
Nestled in the South Downs National Park, this east Sussex retreat is close to the historic town of Lewes. From Apple Tree Cabin, there are footpaths that wander over the south downs to several country pubs. Access to the South Downs Way, which is great for walking and cycling, is also a two-minute walk from the cabin and there is also a well-stocked corner shop a minute stroll away.
This beautifully finished self-contained wooden cabin has been specially designed by the owners from locally sourced wood and materials. Suitable for one or two people, there is a king-sized double bunk bed perfect for a couple or two friends. The kitchen comes equipped with a two-ring hob, combination oven, fridge freezer as well as a supply of tea and an Italian coffee maker with fresh ground coffee and sugar.
The cabin has a separate toilet and shower, with a table, chairs and comfy sofa. The south facing outside decking provides the perfect spot to enjoy a morning coffee or some drinks in the evening.
Ecopod, Hassocks
Over in west Sussex stands a delightful Ecopod with its own summer house. Located close to Hassocks, the train station is only a 10 minutes’ walk and there are several walking trails to Ditchling and other villages in the area. There is also a lovely nearby garden centre where you can have coffee, cake or a meal at their restaurant, as well as buy beer, gifts and locally sourced produce.
Handcrafted in Wales, the Ecopod is beautifully insulated and there is a log cabin next to the Pod, which is a living room for guests fully equipped with an electric fireplace. Although the pod is tucked away on a family garden, it is not secluded and therefore may not be ideal for romantic weekends. High speed internet, Wi-Fi and a TV with Amazon Fire stick is included, and if you want to just read a book, there is a hammock on the veranda to enjoy the sun.
The cabin has its own indoor kitchen area but there is no cooker, so you can buy meals from Cook at the local Budgens or eat out at one of the local restaurants. There is also a local lady called Carly who delivers superb afternoon teas and will organises everything including taking away the dirty plates (how dreamy and creamy does that sound?).
Check AvailabilityPeaklets Shepherds Hut, West Firle
Shepherds Hut is perfectly formed and perfectly located – just a minutes walk from the South Downs Way and a mere five miles from Glyndebourne Opera House. With almost perfect ratings on Airbnb, the cabin is newly built, beautifully finished and sparklingly clean, as well as enjoying the perfect spot in the exquisite Sussex countryside. This is an ideal cabin for ramblers, or a couple in need of a retreat somewhere tranquil and romantic.
There is a wood burning stove, and breakfast options are available. The cute and cosy space has its own fenced garden, comfy double bed, bathroom with shower, kitchenette with fridge, and table and chairs.
Located within the South Downs National Park and with stunning valley views, Shepherds Hut is surrounded by footpaths for those who want to get lost in the countryside and only a few miles from the nearest train station for those who also want to get home quickly.
Riverbank Retreat, Shoreham
Smack bang on the River Adur, this is a truly special location for water and bird lovers. Just a short walk away from the centre of Shoreham by Sea, there are plenty of restaurants and shops to enjoy, as well as walks along the towpath and boardwalk. Brighton and Worthing are easily accessible by bus or train and there’s a cycle path along the coast to Lancing and Worthing.
Regarding the cabin itself, the décor inside is kitsch with an eclectic mix of vintage artwork and homewares, with the owners stamping their own style on the place. There is a queen-sized bed, two sofas, a kitchen with sink, kettle, hob, toaster, cafetiere and microwave. Fresh coffee, milk and croissants will be provided on your arrival. The bathroom has an electric shower, toilet and sink and towels and eco friendly shampoo and conditioner are provided.
There is a dining table and chairs where you can watch the bird life from the RSPB bird reserve and also enjoy access to the bike shed where complimentary bikes, helmets and locks can be used. To make your stay even more special, guests have access to kayaks and beach equipment too!
Check AvailabilityPear Tree Cottage, Peacehaven
Looking more like a bird house than a cabin, this unique and fun hideaway is surrounded by everything you need, from a curry house to a Thai restaurant, a pharmacy to a 24-hour garage. With lovely views along the coast, and fenced cliff top walks, Pear Tree Cottage is only a 10-minute walk to Telscombe Cliffs, Peacehaven beach and Saltdean Lido.
The cottage is located in the owner’s back garden, secluded by trees and private from all neighbours. It has a well-equipped kitchen, toilet and a double bed on the mezzanine and a double sofa bed. There is also an extendable table, a TV with DVD player, and a speaker to play your own music. A caveat is that due to the size of the bathroom and kitchen, it is not ideal for people over 6ft unless you don’t mind ducking. The garden has play equipment including swings, slide, trampoline and tree top walkway. There is also access to a barbeque area and firepit with your own entrance so you can come and go as you please.
Check AvailabilityPrivate Garden Studio, South Heighton
Right on the South Downs, there is a great walk from this cabin to Firle, which has gorgeous cottages, a beautiful church and a great pub called The Ram. There are local trains to Brighton or Seaford, and Glyndebourne is a 15-minute drive away, with Newhaven very close by.
This is a beautifully presented and refined space to stay with a clean mid-century style and cosy and comfortable garden room. The cabin includes a double bed, wood burning stove and fully equipped kitchenette. There is a large shower in the bathroom with views onto the wild garden and plenty of space to wind down on a busy day.
The garden is as beautiful as the cabin, with great views across the local countryside. Guests should be aware that there is parking, but it is accessible via an uneven track, although there is flat parking a short walk away. The owners are happy to provide any help and advice while you are there, to make sure your stay is as pleasant as the cabin is.
Check Availability