Ever since I moved out of Brighton and got two dogs, I’ve loved exploring around areas like Hayward’s Heath, a beautiful town in West Sussex with direct train routes between Brighton and London.
One thing that drives me nuts with these lists is that you see some great suggestions and then find out they’re not even in Hayward’s Heath. I have a separate article on the best things to do in Burgess Hill, as well as activities in Brighton, so I’ll keep this one specific and limited to purely activities in the area.
Borde Hill
Now I’m a little bit gutted, as this used to be the home of the British food festival every year, but sadly this ended a couple of years ago. It never achieved the footfall you see at Brighton Food Festival, but that’s why it was amazing, it was more local and calmer in a nice way.
Borde Hill is certainly worth visiting, with the garden covering 383 acres of land on a Grade II heritage listed parkland. Be aware that it is shut during the winter months, but you have a good 9 month window to come by and explore.
They also host a number of events, from live music shows to workshops and family-friendly activities.
Under 3’s go free, while you can get group family discounts (albeit not a huge amount off per person). They also have membership prices, in case you’d like to visit regularly.
Beech Hurst Miniature Railway
Formed in 1951, this is a great activity for families, as you board along these tiny trains. Open from 2-5pm, this is just a 3 hour window so make sure to arrive with plenty of time if you want to make the most of your trip.
They charge £2 per person, which really isn’t much compared to many activities nowadays, making this an affordable day out. Also, the staff are volunteers, which is nice to see and makes you want to support them.
It should be highlighted that the rides are weather permitted, so if they’re expecting a storm, maybe give the trip a miss and come back another day, so as to avoid disappointment.
There is a public car park nearby, which is free for up to 4 hours, ideal consisting it’s open for 3 hours. You can also just take a train to Hayward’s Heath station and then walk 15 minutes until you reach Beech Hurst.
Nymans House Trust
This is a National Trust property and while I’ve titled this around the house, it’s really the gardens that brings in the most visitors, especially during the summer months when the flowers are blooming.
That’s not to downplay the beauty of the house, which really is stunning.
Ok, I have to quickly mention this one is a bit outside of Hayward’s Heath, so you may need a car (plenty of parking spots) or you can take the 271 bus, which takes around 23 minutes. The 271 isn’t all that regular, so you do have to work out your route, otherwise you may be stuck taking an Uber home.
You can go on a guided tour of the gardens, or just explore for yourself.
Explore The High Street
You can head down South Road, where you will find numerous restaurants, bars and stores, as well as access to Victoria Park, while South Road is also where you will find the Orchards Shopping Centre.
The Orchards shopping centre has a public toilet, plus toy shops, a gym, a hair dressers and an M&S, to name a few.
I’m trying my best to support the high street where possible, especially the independent stores, therefore I’m trying to buy something along here each time I visit.
Tennis or Relax In Victoria Park
Victoria Park is actually surprisingly big as you enter from South Road, while you will also find a tennis club at the far South end.
They do charge for a membership, so this isn’t something you can just pop-in and play, but if you fancy signing up as a local then this is a great activity for exercise and brilliant fun with a mate or a chance to meet other people.
Nearby in Victoria Park is Tory’s Cafe In The Park. You can expect plenty of cakes, biscuits and brunch, with a decent coffee, exactly what you need if you’re out and about on a Sunday. The cafe is open 7 days a week, from 9:30am till 4pm.
