Sunday brought a relaxed start to the day, – we walked the dogs in another part of Ashdown Forest – and then it was time to go to a nearby National Trust House Standen Garden, which is situated on the outskirts of East Grinstead.
The house was decorated in the style of a Beale family Christmas, with trees, decorations and letters originally written by the children to Santa – gift ideas included a bug collecting kit, ballet shoes, and at a later date, a letter with dreams of home from the trenches.
Standen House is a lovely late 18th century house, with views across the Sussex countryside, though sadly the wintery grey clouds hung low over the scene during our visit obscuring the opportunity to fully enjoy it. Designed by Philip Webb, the house is one of the finest examples of Arts and Crafts workmanship, with Morris & Co. interiors creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.