Eagles Nest at Greyfriars

History, privacy and elegance combine at Eagles Nest, one of two high-end holiday homes at Greyfriars, a Grade II-listed mansion in countryside close to the East Sussex coast – the other is Herons Wood. The result of the careful and sympathetic restoration of one wing of this Gothic 19th-century house overlooking a ruined medieval monastery, the holiday home offers modern convenience and comfort with authentic country-house style thanks to original features including mullion windows, high ceilings and antique furniture.

Offering more space and features than many stand-alone holiday cottages, Eagles Nest has two bedrooms and two marbled bathrooms, lots of living space and a private, enclosed garden with a hot tub. The benefit of being on the upper floor is that its rooms all open up onto a private sun-trap terrace with loungers. It's both family- and dog friendly, and comfortably sleeps a maximum of four in the two bedrooms – one a double with super-king-size bed and the other a twin with two queen-size beds.

If the heritage features and unique setting on a private family-owned estate underpin what’s so special about this holiday home, the no-expense-spared finish also elevate the experience of staying here. Underfloor heating and wood-burners mean the apartment is cosy wherever the weather, there's a well-equipped modern kitchen, while the beds have handmade cashmere and wool mattresses and 800-thread bed linens.

Greyfriars is situated on the edge of the charming village of Winchelsea and most guests take a wander to the nearby local pub at some point during their stay. There’s a further taste of the local terroir at the Charles Palmer Vineyard, next door to Greyfriars, and at the village’s 'Little Shop' which is well-stocked with farm produce. For fresh fish and seafood, head to the quaint harbour town of Rye, two miles down the road, where you can easily spend an afternoon watching fishing boats or browsing antiques and cobbled streets. The beach is another must-visit: shingley Winchelsea beach is just a mile away and the huge sandy expanses at Camber are not much further.

The closest attraction of all, of course, is the 13th-century abbey which you can see from the windows of your apartment. It sits in the private parkland that belongs to your hosts and is not accessible to the public or, ordinarily, to guests. But ask very nicely when you’re welcomed to your holiday home and your host Caroline might be able to arrange a private tour.