First Impressions
Parking up at The Grain Store I was impressed by the scale of the wooden barn and couldn’t wait to explore the property. The Grain Store is a luxury barn situated in the glorious countryside of the South Downs. The modern conversation of this barn has been done to create a calming, sustainable, luxury getaway for family and friends. It can sleep 6 people across 3 rooms but there is also a gorgeous annexe that you can book alongside it to be able to sleep another 2 people. The outside space is just breathtaking. With views of the rolling hills and big skies, you will want to spend all your time outside and embracing the countryside views. They have really utilised the outside space by providing multiple places to dine and relax, a BBQ, the fabulous hot tub and even an incredible balcony area.
Interiors
The barn really does the talking both inside and outside. The cedar-clad exterior gives it a natural charm and makes it seem that it’s always been part of the landscape. The concrete flooring creates an industrial feel and plays homage to the original use of the building. Light is a key part of the barn and any opportunity to let the light flood in has been used to create an airy space and outdoor living. The decoration is simple yet sophisticated with touches of colour found on cushions, bedding and rugs that add a playful element. The sheep skin rugs and chairs dotted around the property reminded me of the history of the barn and also helped create a calming, cosy space where you can relax.
Room
2 double bedrooms can be found downstairs in the barn. One comes with an impressive ensuite and the other has floor to ceiling doors that open straight into the garden. The additional bedroom can be found upstairs and has 2 single beds with skylights. Upstairs you will also find a cosy, relaxing lounge full of comfy chairs, books, games and a desk so it’s great whether you need a separate space to work or play. There is also a huge balcony with a large L shape sofa that overlooks the rolling hills. This is where I spent my mornings and evenings soaking up the view. Downstairs is an open living, dining and kitchen which is the hub of the home. One side of the barn has floor-to-ceiling doors that lead out to the garden so you can enjoy the outside whilst still in the comfort of being indoors.
Nearby
Just a short drive away is the town of Lewes. I would highly recommend visiting this town as it’s full of charming interiors, gift and clothes shops, wonderful places to eat and lovely streets and even a castle to explore. I would definitely recommend visiting Radical Giving, Closet & Botts and From Victoria. However, if you walk up the high street up the hill, you will stumble across many wonderful shops to go in. If you fancy a trip to the seaside, then Brighton is also a short drive away and there is plenty to see and do here. From shopping down the Lanes, playing on the arcades at the Brighton Palace Pier or just relaxing on the beach with an ice cream. For more information on what to do in Brighton, check out our guide here.
Overall Impression
I feel incredibly lucky to have spent a few days at The Grain Store. From the beautiful interiors, impressive views and amazing outside space, I loved every second here. Although I loved exploring Lewes and the local area, I was so happy to spend most of my time enjoying the barn and outside space. Lounging in the garden, mornings in the hot tub and evenings on the balcony watching the local wildlife were some of the simple yet wonderful things I did daily. I can imagine this would be a great space for a family getaway or a weekend away with friends as there is so much to do and plenty of space for everyone to relax. If you are looking for a luxury barn in the heart of the South Downs, you won’t get better than this.
For more UK staycation inspiration, check out our blog here.
