1 / 59

Waydown Shepherds Huts

100%

28 reviews

· Pyecombe, West Sussex, England

2 acres hosted by Andrew M.

2 glamping pitches

Family-friendly

Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.

Andrew is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

Private sites

100% of recent Hipcampers say the sites felt private.

Modern shepherd's huts beside the South Downs Way

Come to this part of Sussex and it only seems right to stay in a shepherd’s hut. The whole area feels slightly lost in time, from the tight country lane that takes you to the 12th-century stone church in Pyecombe, to the quaintly-named Jack and Jill Windmills that perch on a nearby hillside with far-reaching views across the South Downs. The four shepherd’s huts at Waydown Cottage are utterly at home, echoing in their wooden-clad walls and old-fashioned, iron wheels the character of these surrounding attractions. It’s a spot with real storybook charm. Captivating history (ironically enough) in Britain’s newest national park.

Set in the four-acre surroundings of a traditional Sussex cottage, Waydown is comprised of four different shepherd’s huts, each in their own space and sheltered by trees and shrubbery. Just as the surrounding attractions have seen the subtle creep of modernity – charming Pyecombe is now easily accessed by an A-road and the old windmills are accompanied by a souvenir shop – the huts, too, are a far cry from their ancient predecessors. Inside, modern extras include electricity, lighting, double beds and bunk beds, while each hut also has a wood-burning stove to keep you snug and warm. Extra communal units, built in a similar style, also accompany the various abodes. There’s a shower in a wooden cabin, a separate toilet lodge and a kitchen space with a sink, fridge, hobs and utilities. Together they kit the glampsite out with everything it needs. Oh, and there’s a friendly pair of donkeys, too. In case a little extra company is the only thing still missing.

Strike out from your shepherd’s hut and it’s a matter of metres before you link up with the South Downs Way – the best way to tour the countryside on foot. It’s just over half a mile, skirting Pyecombe Golf Course, to the Windmills. Technically (and less romantically) called Clayton Windmills, only one of the pair is still in operation today and opens to the public on most Sunday’s from May to September (2pm–5pm). In the opposite direction, meanwhile, it’s an even shorter stroll to the local pub, The Plough Inn, or an easy 15-minute drive to bustling Brighton. So, from daytrips to the seaside to local strolls on the South Downs Way, everything is covered.

Activities

Biking

Hiking

Natural features

Forest

Select a unit

Filter by

Glamping

2 units

Instant book

Woodkeepers Hut

100% (7)

Shepherd's hut · Sleeps 4

Wonderfully traditional yet brimming with modern extras such as power points and electric light, our four-berth hut boasts a double bed, a bunk bed for children and that all important wood-burning stove for extra cosiness. We have a firepit and barbeque for those warm evenings, leisurely lunches can be enjoyed outside in the private garden (with picnic bench), and don't forget to introduce yourself to our resident donkeys, Nancy and her baby Dudley, who are friendly and appreciate a pat. One dog is welcome, but must be kept on a lead around the huts. There is a 10 acre woodland with the direct access onto the South Downs Way with plenty of dog walking opportunities. A cleverly-converted wash-hut features a large sink and hot water, a flushing chemical toilet, and an adjacent spacious shower hut. We also now have a brand new purpose built four berth 'bathing machine' hut, with private terrace. A separate kitchen hut includes a fridge and microwave with a breakfast bar offering views over the grounds and ancient woods which surround our home. From Easter onwards I only do a minimum 2 night booking at £250, no more 1 nights and I don't do the weekend rate anymore. It's a 4 berth with large double bed and bunk beds so sleeps 4, it has power light and heat with plus a wood burning stove with logs provided and outside private garden area with seating and picnic bench, BBQ and fire pit.

No campfires

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

Showers

No picnic table

from

£250

/ night

for NaN guests

Instant book

Shepherds Hut

100% (3)

Shepherd's hut · Sleeps 2

Wonderfully traditional yet brimming with modern extras such as power points and electric light, our 2 berth hut boasts a double bed, table and chairs plus a roll up Futon mattress stored under the bed if you have a small child, and that all important wood-burning stove for extra cosiness. We have a firepit and barbeque for those warm evenings, leisurely lunches can be enjoyed outside on your own picnic bench, and don't forget to introduce yourself to our resident donkeys, Nancy and her baby Dudley, who are friendly and appreciate a pat. One dog is welcome, but must be kept on a lead around the huts. There is a 10 acre woodland with the direct access onto the South Downs Way with plenty of dog walking opportunities. A cleverly-converted wash-hut features a large sink and hot water, a flushing chemical toilet, and an adjacent spacious shower hut. We also now have a brand new purpose built four berth 'Bathing Machine' hut, with private covered terrace. A separate kitchen hut includes a fridge and microwave with a breakfast bar offering views over the grounds and ancient woods which surround our home. I only do a minimum 2 night booking at £195. It's a 2 berth with double bed, it has power light and heat with plus a wood burning stove with logs provided and outside seating with BBQ and fire pit.

No campfires

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

Showers

No picnic table

from

£200

/ night

for NaN guests

Reviews

100% Recommend25 Ratings · 28 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

With kids ·

Woodkeepers Hut

Beautiful site, very well set up with everything thought of. The kids adored Dolly the horse!

Grace F.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2024

Was a perfect stay for us.

With kids ·

Woodkeepers Hut

We loved it here and will be back. It was so peaceful, the shepherd hut had everything we needed, loved the campfire and bbq, we came here with our 7 year old daughter and she loved feeding the animals, the horse and donkeys were very friendly. I was unsure of having a shower but honestly it was lovely and warm.

Kelly J.

9 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2024

Great weekend away

With pets ·

Woodkeepers Hut

We had a wonderful weekend away at the Woodkeeper’s Hut in July 2024. Really good glamping set up with hot shower, toilet and fully equipped kitchen as well as tree swings for the kids. We also made friends with the horse and donkeys who came to visit every day. Lovely views from the hut, fire pit, bbq, power points and comfy beds! Also a really good base for some fabulous walks in the area. Oh yes- and also 15-20 mins to the seaside.

Anna R.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2024

A wonderful retreat

With pets ·

Woodkeepers Hut

Our children were desperate not to leave saying that they wanted to stay at Andrew’s forever more! Andrew and Vicky were delightful, their welcome cakes were super yummy, the hut and private space was incredible, the view spectacular and the horse and donkeys became our new best friends very quickly. We’ll definitely be back. What an absolute treasure!

Becs B.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2023

With pets ·

Shepherds Hut

We had a great stay! The guy had everything we could have needed and was cosy, warm and clean. Andrew and Vicky were so welcoming and offered advice on where to go. The site was well equipped with amazing access to the South Downs. We walked to Poynings for lunch at the Royal Oak which was excellent.

Charlotte C.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· January 2023

Cosy mini break

Woodkeepers Hut

My husband, daughter and I had a lovely mini break at one of Andrew’s shepherd huts. Andrew was extremely helpful and informative, I felt that everything had been carefully thought about to make our stay comfortable and convenient. We had an amazing time, this is our second shepherd hut experience, both times out of high season and cannot emphasise how warm and cosy they are. Booking was easy and Andrew was very communicative from the time of booking through to our departure. Thank you Andrew.

Sarah H.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· November 2022

With pets ·

Woodkeepers Hut

Lovely huts, well equipped and cosy. A very short walk to the South Downs Way so great for walkers. Nice touches such as home made cakes in the hut! Thank you.

Rachel W.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2022

Shepherd Hut by woodland FAB

Shepherds Hut

The directions were very easy to navigate, plenty of room for parking. Hut set in beautiful woodland surroundings. Easy access to local villages, Jack and Jill Windmills and gold course and pub. Hut was very clean, nice touch with flowers and cake. The kitchen had all utensils required and even wood for fire pit and log burner. The hut was very clean and comfortable. Shower and toilet cabins were really good too. Andrew welcomed us into the property and gave us some useful information over and above what was left in the documents in the hut. Feel really refreshed after a lovely two night stay. We will be back for sure even if it’s to see the beautiful horse and donkeys

Colette O.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· January 2022

Shepherds Hut

Me and my Fiancé Karen stayed here 15th to 17th of Jan 22… we love it here as I’m writing this whilst by the fire pit at Weydown. The huts are lovely and cozy with log burner, and the beds super comfy… A perfect kitchen hut with everything you need … clean toilet and shower … if ya like a long walk , there’s that too taking you to great views by the Jack n Jill windmill … the fire pit is provided with ash and oak logs .. also the bbq is there , except charcoal . And there is a nice area outside the hut with a wooden table and bench chairs ..Andrew is very charming man and cannot do enough for you …. We will become regulars here from now on … highly recommend to escape a hectic life ..

Marc G.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2021

Woodkeepers Hut

Our second year here and it was better! We love the location close enough to the city but far enough into the country for walks and woodland fun. We love the swings donkeys and fire making! The huts are the perfect size and have shelter if it rains Thanks Andrew - see you next year!

Emma L.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2021

Shepherds Hut

Thank you Andrew. We had a lovely few days staying in a beautiful shepherds hut Loved the place and the surrounding areas

Sally T.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2021

Woodkeepers Hut

Andrew was a great host and location provides great place for kids to chill out in woods and enjoy nearby animals and wildlife.

Justin B.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2021

Shepherds Hut

Waydown is a lovely spot with bluebell woods and immediate access to the the South Downs way. The Shepherd's hut was clean, well equipped and cosy. It had it's own fire pit/ BBQ/ outdoor table and chairs and there is also a very welcome shared sheltered sitting area with tables and chairs which was a real bonus as the weather was not brilliant! Thank you for a lovely break, Andrew.

Elspeth D.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2021

Woodkeepers Hut

Lovely shepherds hut, so clean and tidy and well organised. Very convenient location, easy to get to the main roads to london and brighton. Owner was friendly and helpful. Great pub down the road.

Gwendolen R.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2020

Woodkeepers Hut

Even though the weather wasn't great, my family and I had a great weekend. Upon arrival we were met by Andrew who took the time to tell us how everything worked and all the local points of interest. It was a great base for exploring be it by car or foot. Definitely recommended and we will happily be visiting again in the future!

Alan H.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2020

Woodkeepers Hut

We had such a great stay in the woodkeepers hut this bank holiday. With a private garden area right by the two donkeys! we had everything we needed and such a welcoming and friendly host Andrew who was extra helpful with advice and walks around the nearby locations. The jack and Jill pub nearby is lovely and dog friendly. Cosy beds and extra touch of flowers and cakes on arrival. We will be back for sure!

Emma S.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2020

Shepherds Hut

We had a great bank holiday weekend stay here. Perfect location for walks and easy access to Brighton. Hosts were lovely and welcoming and gave us some pointers on where to walk with local pubs/restaurants which were dog friendly.

Sam R.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2020

Woodkeepers Hut

We had a great stay in the Woodkeepers Hut. There were very high winds while we were staying that lowered our enthusiasm for outside activities a little but the hut was very cosy to shelter in. There were lots of other kids and dogs staying while we were there which was great for our kids and they absolutely loved having the donkeys right next to our hut. They are very friendly. The hut and amenities were very well stocked, cleaned and cared for. The spot is lovely and has big swings for the kids to play on. There is also a small wood next door which is great for den building and dog walking. The only small drawback was the busy road nearby. The kitchen hut could also do with things like a sieve and a cheese grater but these are minor things. Andrew was an extremely helpful host always ready to help in whatever way he can. We ate a couple of times at Wayfield Park Farm which does great teas and breakfasts. Another night we had a good meal at the Jack and Jill pub which is dog friendly. The windmills themselves are not open to the public during the Covid crisis but make a good destination to walk to thanks to the view. Ditchling Beacon was another favourite beauty spot nearby. All in all a great short break. Thank you Waydown!

Katharine S.

5 years on Hipcamp

August 2020

The whole experience was marvellous. Andrew is fantastic host, he greeted us straight away on arrival, walked us through everything and let’s us be. The shepherds huts are very comfortable and the facilities are a lot better than most glamping locations. Out son shot off to play with the the kids of the numerous other families on site and generally had a great time mucking about on tyre swings and patting the on-site resident donkeys. Very much recommend staying here as a great base to explore the South Downs.

Sam W.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2020

Shepherds Hut

My boyfriend and I came here for a long weekend from London and it was the perfect getaway. We stayed for three nights but could easily have stayed much longer. Andrew was quick to respond and welcomed us when we arrived and showed us round the site. He also recommended some local amenities and how best to get to them. We stayed in the Shepherd's Hut which was comfortable and cosy, and had seating outside next to our own fire pit and separate BBQ. The shared toilet and shower facilities were good and kept very clean, as was the shared kitchen area which has a hob, fridge and microwave if needed. The added bonus of this place was of course Nancy and Dudley - the donkeys! They were a bit wary to begin with, but warmed to us after the second meeting and were very cute and friendly. The nearby pub (The Plough Inn) was great as well - really good service and the food was delicious. We also went to Wayfield Farm for BBQ food and breakfast on the last day which was really tasty. The breakfast was huge and kept us full for the rest of the day! We would 100% recommend Waydown Shepherds Huts for a staycation, we'll be looking to rebook in the colder months so we can make use of the wood burner too.

Emma F.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2020

Shepherds Hut

Such fun- the tyre swing was a favourite of my little boy. Great access to local pub via the woods and lovely walks nearby The beds were comfortable and the shower and kitchen were great additions. Will come again

Charles C.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2020

Shepherds Hut

Andrew was extremely responsive after the initial booking was made and answered all follow up questions really quickly. On arrival we were made to feel welcome straight away and the place was lovely. Really cosy Shepherds Hut, BBQ and firepit in the evenings, close access to the South Coast (Brighton, Hastings and beaches). We are definitely planning to return

Rupert A.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2019

Woodkeepers Hut

Myself and my son spent 2 nights at Waydown Shepherds Huts and we loved it. Andrew the host was very informative and local pubs and supermarkets. The shower was amazing and the cooking area was great too. Very close to Brighton and we loved the fire pit to cook Marshmallows. I would highly recommend for a weekend away. The local pubs served fab food.

Colin B.

5 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2019

Woodkeepers Hut

This is a great location and Andrew could not have been more helpful. Donkeys were delightful.

Edward B.

6 years on Hipcamp

July 2018

Spent lovely weekend here wt boyfriend - rustic huts well kitted out, as was the kitchen hut, WC/wash hut & shower hut. Only 1 shower but never had to queue. Site itself is lovely, quiet and calm in clearing nxt to woods wt a couple of donkeys. Can hear constant traffic on fast road along site's boundary, however, is only slight downside. Really enjoyed late night bbq and fire pit right outside our own hut. Sat visited Brighton; Sunday went for 8 mile walk along South Downs Way with fantastic views and picnic spots and visited the local Jack and Jill (working!) windmills. Andrew the owner was extremely helpful and gave us lots of advice about where to go locally and how to walk there. Thanks for a great stay!

Holly ?.

6 years on Hipcamp

July 2018

We escaped the heat in London for a couple of nights in the Woodkeepers hut and it couldn't have been more perfect. We took our 5 month old and enjoyed quality family time in a very comfortable environment. Andrew was extremely welcoming and provided everything we needed including BBQ, crockery, linen and even some gorgeous home made cakes! We walked in the local area and relaxed on the grass around the hut and spent each evening in front of the fire pit enjoying quiet country air. I look forward to a return visit, maybe in winter next time to make the most of the log burner and cosiness of the hut :-)

Sophie ?.

6 years on Hipcamp

May 2018

We had a fantastic stay in the Shepherd Hut. The hut itself was very clean and positioned an a beautiful location with it's own little plot of land providing a real sense of privacy. There is a communal small kitchen/washing up area and shower facilities located a short walk away. The hut looks out on a bluebell wood which was an amazing site in spring. The children enjoyed the donkeys that live in the paddock next door. A lot of thought had gone into the details to ensure that everything one could realistically ask for in order to have a trouble-free stay was provided (including cutlery/plates/coffee cups, towels, duvets etc.) Many thanks for Andrew and Vikki for a terrific experience.

Gavin ?.

7 years on Hipcamp

November 2017

Wonderful stay. Was as described and hosts were super friendly. Would return again. Great for walking in the South Downs (the main purpose of our visit) and Lewes and Brighton were also close by. Huts were very warm and cosy (despite really bad weather during our stay) and had everything we needed. Very happy. Thanks so much! :)

Jonty ?.

7 years on Hipcamp

Location

Pyecombe, West Sussex, England, United KingdomTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking

Hosted by Andrew M.

Joined in April 2017

From the host

Experience the nostalgia and charm of bygone days with modern comfort and luxury in our bespoke Shepherds Hut and River Keepers Hut, nestled on the South Downs Way in Pyecombe on the outskirts of Brighton. We offer direct access onto the beautiful South Downs walkways and are adjacent to the famous Jack and Jill Windmills, just a 10 minute walk away! Waydown Cottage has been our home for 25 years. Set in four unspoiled acres, we are surrounded by a beautiful wood with our only neighbours being the Jack and Jill Windmills, Pyecombe Golf Course and the Three Greys Stables. However we have the benefit of superb facilities within a few minute’s walk including Marks and Spencer’s Simply Foods at the local Garage 2 minutes’ drive or 10 minutes’ walk away. The local village pub, The Plough, offers a wonderful choice of cuisine and fine wines in their conservatory restaurant, or enjoy a beer or glass of wine with a choice of snacks in the bar. They also provide a take away service. Hassocks is our local village with all the usual range of shops and a selection of eateries and the railways station is on the main London to Brighton line, the historic Town of Lewes in 15 minute’s drive away, with cosmopolitan Brighton 15 minutes away. For those wishing to visit London, it is a 90 minute drive or 60 minute train ride.

Nearby attractions

It's super easy to join the South Downs Way – the most popular starting point for anyone exploring the area. Stretch yourself with the walk up to Ditchling Beacon (take a bike if you have the energy) – the views are well worth the effort. Or if you'd prefer to explore by horse, the 3 Greys Riding School opposite Waydown offer hacks and lessons (01273 843536) for adults and children. The nearby village itself boasts a small but beautiful museum (01273 844744), a good pub and a nice tea room (see Food & Drink). Further afield, the beautiful county town of Lewes deserves your time, with its prominent hilltop castle (01273 486290) and wonderful Georgian buildings, while the bright lights of Brighton, on the south coast, are 8 miles away. The bohemian town's famous pier (01273 609361), beach and collection of galleries, theatres and bars make it a worthwhile day trip during longer stays.

Food and drink

There are 3 good pubs within a 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from the glamping site. The furthest – The Ginger Fox (01273 857888) – is particularly good, with excellent gastro pub food, a large beer garden with a children's playground and dogs welcome, but for the closest option The Plough Inn (01273 842796) is still a great choice. Also the Jack & Jill Inn (01273 843595) in Clayton offers great home-cooked pub grub with dogs welcome. It can be walked in 20 minutes through woodlands or 3 minutes by car. Wayfield Park Farm Shop (07742 082051) is also just down the road, offering delicious home-cooked breakfast and lunch (available Tuesday–Sunday; dogs welcome). For everything else, pop to M&S Simply Foods at the local garage or drive into Hassocks (5-minute drive) where local shops include Sainsbury’s and Budgens, along with cafés, takeaways and more. There's also a nice little tea rooms (01273 842708) in the village of Ditchling – very walkable.

Waydown Shepherds Huts

Select a unit

Glamping

Woodkeepers Hut

Shepherds Hut

Reviews

Location

Hosted by Andrew M.

Things to do nearby

Similar campgrounds nearby

Campers also viewed...

Popular searches in West Sussex