In Mid Sussex you’ll find the stunning countryside of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as well as lakes and rivers, vineyards, historic gardens, and Medieval towns and villages. In short, it’s perfect for a mini break, and so we’ve put together a 48 Hours In Mid Sussex itinerary.
Friday afternoon arrival
Your weekend starts in East Grinstead. Arrive early afternoon if you can and head to Standen House just outside the town. This is a National Trust Arts and Crafts property with Morris & Co. interiors set in a stunning garden. Apart from exploring the house and gardens, they also have a rolling programme of events throughout the year.
Leave just enough time to head back into East Grinstead for the evening. Here you’ll find the High Street which is one of the longest continuous runs of 14th-century timber-framed buildings in England. Visit Sackville College where in 1853 John Mason Neale wrote the Good King Wenceslas. Visiting is by guided tours on Friday to Sunday afternoons during the summer months.
East Grinstead also has a great museum, and is home to a Millennium Stone and the Meridian Line – head to East Court to see the stone. If you fancy a Michelin star meal, then spend your evening at Gravetye Manor just outside the town. Alternatively, try The Cat Inn at West Hoathly for a great sense of history.
Saturday morning
On Saturday morning, you have choices. If you want a lovely walk and a chance to take a photo of one of the most iconic images of Sussex (the famous Ouse Valley Viaduct), then make your way to Ardingly Reservoir. Take the South Ouse Valley Way footpath from the reservoir (behind the water sports centre) and it will take you directly to the viaduct. It’s about one mile.
If that’s not for you, how about romantic Nymans? Another National Trust property, Nymans is famed for its all year gardens and its evocative ruins. There are also some beautiful woodland walks there too which are perfect for spring.
Saturday afternoon
Saturday afternoon is all about the drink, as you make your way to Bolney Wine Estate. Established in 1972, this was the first commercial vineyard in Sussex. They have a variety of different tasting and tours on offer. Alternatively, not far away is the Wobblegate Cider Taproom. This is the UK’s first dedicated cider taproom.
Saturday evening
For pucker tucker, try Ockenden Manor in Cuckfield. It’s a beautiful Elizabethan manor house hotel with an award-winning restaurant. They also have a spa, in case you’re tempted to put down roots.
Sunday morning
Sunday mornings are for walking off any excesses of the night before, and it’s time to visit another iconic Sussex landmarks, the Jack and Jill windmills at Clayton. Set on the South Downs, just east of Hassocks, there are great views from here, and there is a nice walk from the windmills to the Chattri Memorial. Before you leave, walk or drive down the hill to visit the Medieval frescoes in the church that sits at the foot of the hill at Clayton.
Sunday afternoon
There is just time for one last indulgence before you head home. The Hop Tub Brewery and Taproom in Hurstpierpoint has a street food inspired menu bursting with fresh locally sourced ingredients. Have a quick look around Hurstpierpoint too before you head off. There are some great vintage shops here, a folly and a famous fair!
Places to stay in Mid Sussex
- Ockendon Manor
- Alexander House Hotel & Utopia Spa
- Kingscote Estate
Travel
The easiest way to travel around Mid Sussex is by car. However there are trains from London to East Grinstead, Haywards Heath and to Hassocks (near Hurstpierpoint). Trains take just over an hour.
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