If you are looking for the peace and tranquility of the countryside but still within striking distance of the bustling market town of Heathfield, then look no further. Toft Cottage is a beautifully presented and meticulously maintained three bedroom Lions Green cottage dating from 1929, extended in 1939 by the Lions Green Company, with a further extension in the 1970s. The flexible, good-sized accommodation comprises hallway, kitchen/breakfast room, sitting room, dining room/second sitting room/study, master bedroom with en-suite shower room, two further bedrooms, family bathroom, garage, carport, greenhouse, two garden sheds, 1/2 acre of gardens, gardener's WC and utility/boot room. The property features some beamed ceilings, though retainins good ceiling heights, original doors, some oak-framed leaded light windows and oil-fired central heating.

The extensive gardens surround the property, mainly laid to lawn with established cottage garden planting and mature trees including oak, beech, magnolia and a tulip tree. A wildlife pond with a waterfall and decked bridge lies at the bottom and, nearer the house, sits a south-facing ornamental fish pond. The rear garden provides further lawn, vegetable garden, two garden sheds, a greenhouse and flower borders.

The property is elevated and set back from a country lane, approximately 1.5 miles from Waldron, and has been subject to extensive renovations and improvements. Heathfield town centre offers a wide range of shopping and banking facilities with independent retailers setting it apart from the standard high street. The area is well served with excellent state and private schools. Mainline railway stations at Stonegate and Etchingham (less than a 15 minute drive away) give services into Charing Cross in just over an hour. Eastbourne and Tunbridge Wells are about 15 miles away.

During the 1960's Toft Cottage was the home of Major Pat Reid, author of The Colditz Story. In 1942 he and three other men escaped Colditz through the kitchens, then out through the German area of the camp into the dry moat of the castle, eventually making it to Switzerland. Reid wrote three books based on his experiences as a P.O.W. in Colditz - Colditz: The Colditz Story (1952), The Latter Days (1953) and Colditz: The Full Story (1984). His experiences became the basis of a film, TV series and even a board game.

Early viewing is highly recommended through Westwoods Estate Agents - 01435 868020 www.westwoods.co.uk