It’s now over a hundred years since Stud Farm in East Sussex had its glory days of a Grand National winner. Shannon Lass, champion of the 1902 race, was trained here on the South Downs, galloping across the green landscape with the dazzlingly blue backdrop of sky and sea. Alas, today the farm has hung up its horse racing shoes in favour of a more laid-back pace to life. There are sheep, pigs, cattle and acres of arable farming space, while horses still clip-clop their way across the
livery yard but are here for casual hacking and rides rather than weekend trips
to Aintree. The farm is also home to an excellent little campsite; a perfect place to breathe in the sights and sounds of small-time Sussex agriculture.
Just a mile and a half from the coast and slap bang on the South Downs Way, Stud Farm Campsite certainly boasts a sought-after setting. Campers in the know should book here early. With just 25 informal grass pitches, the campsite
has a habit of filling up quickly, especially on summer weekends. The
atmosphere is one of back-to-basics simplicity. Campfire smoke wafts in the
evening breeze, with firepits for hire and logs for sale, while facilities –
toilets, taps and two showers – are a thoroughly basic affair. The result
is a paired-back campsite with a pleasingly casual atmosphere. Walkers pass through as they pace the full length of the South Downs Way and families come for short breaks, bathing in the English Channel as they forgo their weekend showers.
By car, busy Brighton and ancient Lewes are within easy reach. The former is on hand for a vibrant city break by the coast, the latter for stepping back in time and sipping tea in ivy-clad cafés. You needn’t to and fro in the car, however. From the campsite it only takes around 20 minutes to walk to the nearest beach on Telsombe Cliffs waterfront and, when you return, a quick detour via the local pub offers a handy place to refuel. When you get back to Stud Farm, meanwhile, there’s the farm’s own lamb, pork and sausages for your evening supper. Plus, of course, the obligatory evening marshmallows. Bliss.