A fresh hospitality venue combining historic character with contemporary elegance is set to launch in Sussex.
Sefton Place in Arundel represents the newest venture from Mark and Caroline Winship, a husband-and-wife entrepreneurial duo who are transforming the property into a versatile estate.
The pair are presently undertaking renovations with a view to welcoming guests in August.
Mark noted that the project has reached an exciting phase where the building is beginning to resemble their original vision. He explained that major decisions regarding finishes and aesthetic details are now being finalized. Kitchens have been professionally designed, while bathroom suites and flooring selections have been confirmed. According to Mark, the venture is now heading towards its grand opening.
The Winships entered the property sector a decade ago following a significant shift in priorities after Caroline received a breast cancer diagnosis in 2013.
Prior to this, Caroline worked in education while Mark operated a successful high-performance tennis academy.
Caroline explained that the diagnosis prompted a fundamental re-evaluation of priorities, focusing more on future ambitions and family. She described feeling grateful to still be present and continuing the fight. Before 2013, she recalled being reluctant to take risks, but after her diagnosis and recovery, she came to view each day as a valuable bonus. This mindset led them to explore new opportunities.
The couple stated that moving into hospitality felt like a natural progression given their backgrounds working with people. They explained that Sefton Place would embody their commitment to helping visitors create lasting memories.
The establishment will feature their innovative aparthotel concept, representing an enhanced version of conventional hotel accommodation.
Every suite at Sefton Place will include self-catering kitchen facilities, granting guests the choice to prepare their own meals or explore the local restaurants in Arundel. On-site washing and laundry amenities will also be available.
A purpose-built events space suitable for hire will form part of the venue, and the couple reported receiving strong interest from organisations seeking locations for retreats.
Caroline emphasised that providing guests with exceptional experiences and wonderful memories remains their primary focus. She noted that people work diligently for their disposable income, and facilitating their ability to create cherished moments is what drives them.
Upon completion, Sefton Place will offer 15 high-end holiday suites along with a five-bedroom premium holiday rental.
During renovations, the Winships are prioritising the estate’s South Downs location, with ambitions to establish what they describe as Britain’s inaugural genuinely nature-focused hotel.
Mark outlined their collaboration with the South Downs National Park trust to expand the orchard, introduce wildflower meadows, and cultivate an environment where visitors can re-establish their connection with the natural world. Plans include installing multiple wildlife cameras with feeds displayed on lobby screens, allowing human guests to observe resident wildlife. Mark expressed a desire for an immersive experience where the grounds are filled with birdsong and insect activity, providing genuine opportunities for nature reconnection.
Renovation work is presently underway and approximately fifty percent complete.