Heathfield
Heathfield is a charming market town perched on a ridge amidst rolling East Sussex countryside, offering sweeping vistas and a friendly, community atmosphere. Once a railway hub and iron industry centre, it blends Victorian and Edwardian architecture with rural heritage, making it a delightful base for exploring the South Downs, nearby vineyards, and traditional villages.
Top Attractions
The Cuckoo Trail
The Cuckoo Trail stretches for about 22.5 km between Heathfield and Polegate, offering a scenic route for walkers and cyclists. Following the path of a former railway line closed in 1968, this greenway takes its name from the historic Cuckoo Fair. It’s a beautiful countryside trail and a must-see for anyone exploring the area.
Batemans
While exploring east of Heathfield, make time for Bateman’s, a beautiful 17th-century house set in the Sussex countryside. This National Trust property was once home to Rudyard Kipling, author of The Jungle Book and Kim. Visitors can tour the rooms where Kipling lived and wrote, admire his personal belongings, and stroll through the tranquil gardens and watermill. Bateman’s offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of Britain’s most celebrated writers and is a must-visit for literature lovers and history enthusiasts.