St Cuthman's Retreat House ...
is a beautiful country house of Jacobean origin, set in extensive grounds, near Horsham, with views across the lake to the South Downs. It is run by the R.C. Diocese of Arundel and Brighton which took it over from the St Julian's Community. This quiet retreat house is open to people of all denominations and none, and is full of character and offers peace, comfort and tranquillity in a wonderful setting. The Garden Rooms meeting facility, available for gatherings of up to 22 people, also hosts our monthly Days of Reflection and other events
All who seek quiet...
space and time apart are welcome, whether it is to read, reflect, pray, or simply rest and enjoy the surroundings. Most guests stay for just a few days, whilst others stay for longer - for example, as part of a sabatical. For more views of St Cuthman's click here
The House ...
generally caters for individuals rather than groups. However whole-house groups running their own programme are sometimes possible, especially between November and February (see Residential use by Groups).
Each guest's time...
is his or her own - there is no programme. Late breakfasts are possible for those needing a relaxed start to the day. Mid Morning coffee is available at 11.00 a.m. and Afternoon Tea at 4.00 p.m. The only other fixed points are Lunch and Supper. Guests wishing to eat in silence can do so in the dining room whilst others can eat together in the conservatory area. When the weather is good, meals can be taken outside.
The Chapel ...
is a beautiful, simple space for prayer and reflection. All are welcome to join in the daily gatherings for Morning and Evening Prayer, and Mass is celebrated on most days. The Blessed Sacrament is reserved. Details of local church services are also available. A 'loop' system is installed.
An experienced spiritual director ...
or retreat guide, or simply a listening ear, can usually be arranged for individuals with sufficient notice.
There are 8 single rooms and 8 twin rooms ...
all with a shower, WC and hand basin, desk and easy chairs. One bedroom, for twin or single use, is adapted for wheelchair users. The House is centrally heated and all rooms have drink making facilities. There is a bathroom on each floor for general use.
Downstairs ...
there are comfortable sitting rooms with log fires in season, a well stocked library, reserved for silent reading, with daily papers and journals. Guests have the use of a simple Art Room from April to September inclusive (please bring your own materials to use), and there is a Summerhouse with lovely views to the lake, offering shelter and warmth on windy, chilly or wet days.
Our chefs ...
offer creative, wholesome home cooking using fresh ingredients, seasonal local produce and, wherever possible, Fairly Traded goods. Vegetarians and most essential / medical dietary needs can be catered for if this is advised on booking. Packed lunches can also be arranged.
The grounds ...
comprise of a five and a half acre lake and over 20 acres of formal gardens, shrubbery, woodland, orchards and fields. The site is rich in bird and plant life and is designated by West Sussex as being of Special Nature Conservation Importance. There are quiet places to sit in the grounds and some lovely walks. There are many places of interest nearby. The sea and the Downs are within easy reach by car (Worthing, for example, is 15 miles).
St Cuthman's Gift Vouchers ...
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a great way of marking a special occasion for a friend, relation, colleague or pastor (e.g. anniversary, birthday, wedding, jubilee, retirement or as a leaving gift) or of helping someone in need of a break or facing a difficult time. They can cover a full stay or be a part contribution.
are available for guests who wish to be independent and solitary. Both are basically furnished and have heating.
The Chapel Hut ...
(
residential stays for one or two people for 2 nights or more) overlooks the lake, has cooking facilities, hot water and a mains WC.
The Cricket Field Hut ...
(for day use by individuals or groups of up to four people) has views of the lake also, is more remote and basic, does not have cooking facilities, but has a log fire which can be used on colder days.
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are a separate facility for non-residential group meetings and away-days for up to 22 people. It is set apart in the grounds and offers a quiet and comfortable venue with catering options and ample parking. Enquiries from business and commercial users are also welcome.
For further information please contact:
St Cuthman's, Cowfold Road, Coolham, West Sussex RH13 8QL
Tel 01403 741220 Fax 01403 741026
Email: stcuthmans@dabnet.org
This page last updated 24th June 2009
The Arundel and Brighton Diocesan Trust is a Registered Charity No 252878
