The former home of Winnie-the-Pooh author A.A. Milne is now available to rent for £9,995 per month through Hamptons. Cotchford Farm, a Grade II-listed 16th-century country house in Ashdown Forest, East Sussex, is where Milne wrote all the Winnie-the-Pooh books, inspired by the surrounding landscapes and the adventures of his son, Christopher Robin.
Literary Inspiration and Historic Significance
Milne purchased the property at the end of 1924 for his wife, Dorothy de Sélincourt, and their five-year-old son. The Hundred Acre Wood from the stories was based on the real-life Five Hundred Acre Wood in Ashdown Forest. Poohsticks Bridge and Galleon's Lap were also inspired by local landmarks. Christopher Robin Milne later wrote in his autobiography, The Enchanted Place, "Of the three of us, I suppose it could be said that I was the one most totally captivated by Cotchford."
Famous Owners and Recent History
After Milne's death in 1956, the property was sold. In 1968, Rolling Stones guitarist Brian Jones purchased Cotchford. Jones was found dead in the swimming pool in July 1969, less than a month after being told by Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Charlie Watts that he was no longer in the band. The current owners bought the property in 2017 and have operated it as a holiday let.
Property Features and Layout
The 3,400-square-foot home features six bedrooms across the top two floors, a kitchen and breakfast room, family room, study, and drawing room. Milne wrote from the sitting room. Original features include exposed timber beams, leaded windows, wide oak floorboards, and dramatic fireplaces. The dining room has stone floors and wood-panelled walls.
Outside, there is a heated outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, and two acres of landscaped gardens, formal terraces, and woodland walks. Outbuildings add an extra 400 square feet of space.
Rental Details and Agent Comments
The property is rented furnished for £9,995 per month, available from 31 October. Emma Johnson at Hamptons said, "Cotchford Farm is a truly extraordinary home... best known as the former home of playwright and author of the beloved Winnie-the Pooh stories, A.A Milne. It was here that the timeless tales were written – in the sitting room to be specific."
