5 bed detached house for sale

Southward, West Chiltington, West Sussex RH20

Built in the 1960s, this wonderful mid-century home sits in an elevated position in the village of West Chiltington, West Sussex, within the South Downs National Landscape. It spans some 3,000 sq ft across two levels, with an open-plan living space at its core and five versatile bedrooms. Glazing along the southern elevation maximises natural light while offering a seamless connection to the garden. Despite its rural idyll, the home sits close to Pulborough station, which runs services to London Victoria.

The Tour

The house is hidden from the street and approached via a private tree-lined lane. A gated driveway leads to a large turning and parking area with access to a triple garage. With insulated doors. Painted white, the building's striking silhouette stands out amid the trees, with its flat roof (synonymous with mid-century styles) and banks of glazing that span the breadth of two floors.

Entry is to a bright dual-aspect reception hall, with direct sightline to the garden and access to a cloakroom. Throughout the ground floor there are oak floorboards with underfloor heating and an integrated Sonos sound system.

At the core of this floor is an impressive open-plan living space, with tall south-facing glazing drawing in abundant natural light. From the dining and sitting area, sliding panels provide direct access to the outdoor terrace, extending the house’s footprint in the warmer months. Slightly tucked back is an inviting snug or playroom.

The semi-connected kitchen is fitted with contemporary bespoke cabinets and Corian and Silestone worksurfaces. At its centre is a spacious island with an integrated Novy induction hob and separate gas ring with concealed extractor. There is also an integrated fridge, freezer, wine rack, oven microwave and dishwasher. The adjacent utility room is well-appointed with a large sink, airing cupboard and space for laundry appliances.

Across the reception area is an internal hall with built-in cupboards. It leads to a sweeping, spit-level drawing and cinema room with soaring ceilings, enhancing the impression of openness. Overlooking the garden, the space is anchored by a recessed stone fireplace fitted with a wood-burning stove. Next door is a bedroom or study with two built-in desks and cupboards. The house also has internet cabling installed in most rooms.

Also on this floor is a guest bedroom overlooking the side courtyard. It has an en suite with a free-standing bathtub and shower.

There are three bedrooms upstairs, all with access to spacious, south-facing balcony. The principal bedroom lies here and has a recessed dressing area and an en suite shower room.The other rooms are served by a spacious bathroom with a bathtub and a shower.

The house is fitted with a burglar alarm system and security cameras.

Outdoor Space

The house sits on a substantial elevated plot, screened on all sides and bordered by mature trees and plantings, offering a private and quiet retreat.

The front garden is laid to lawn and framed by well-stocked borders. A paved, south-facing sun terrace runs along the front elevation and is accessible from the open-plan dining area, perfect for making the most of the outdoor space. Also laid to lawn, the rear garden is accessed via a driveway with a parking space for several cars. It leads to a triple garage with double-glazed windows for optimal insulation.

The Area

West Chiltington is a peaceful village with a convenient range of services, including a local shop, a post office and two excellent pubs, The Queen’s Head and the Five Bells. Nyetimber Vineyard is a short drive away and hosts brilliant wine tastings and tours. Nearby Storrington is also well served for amenities, with larger supermarkets to meet additional weekly shopping needs.

Walking, hiking and horse-riding opportunities in the immediate area are exceptional. The Elizabethan Parham House, with exceptional furniture and a magnificent garden and park, is a 10-minute drive away.

Petworth is also nearby, celebrated as a hub for the antique industry and home to Petworth House and Park. Petworth also has a wonderful host of amenities, including independent boutiques Bear, Twenty and Tallulah Fox, alongside café and deli The Hungry Guest. The Horse Guards Inn just outside Petworth in Tillington is also of note.

A 25-minute drive away, Madehurst is home to a restaurant with rooms, The Pig in the South Downs, which has been installed in a splendid Grade ii-listed Georgian house, Madehurst Lodge. The Lodge (built in the 1770s) and its grounds are now home to The Pig’s flock of South Downs sheep and are backed by remarkable views.

Amberley, one of Sussex’s prettiest villages, is also close by and is known for its historic houses, Norman church and castle (now a Relais and Châteaux hotel). Amberley also has two pubs and a thriving village shop with a post office.

The larger town of Arundel is also nearby, a pretty market town on the edge of the South Downs and just a few miles from the West Sussex coast. It is home to Arundel Castle, one of England’s longest inhabited country houses, as well as a popular farmers’ market and a charming array of shops, cafés and restaurants. Glyndebourne Opera House and Goodwood race course aso lie in driving distance.

There is an excellent choice of schools locally. Popular primary options include West Chiltington C of E, Storrington, St James’ C of E, and Bury C of E. The Weald, Midhurst Rother College and Steyning Grammar all provide secondary education for pupils in Pulborough. Private options include Westbourne House, Windlesham House School, Cranleigh, Hurtwood House, Christ Hospital and Brighton College.

Pulborough’s mainline railway station is a 10-minute drive away and runs services to London Victoria in approximately 81 minutes, every half hour. There is also easy access to the A27 and the A24, which connect to the M25. London Gatwick Airport is just a 40-minute drive away.

Council Tax Band: G