On the edge of Ashdown Forest, the market town of Uckfield in East Sussex dates back to the 13th century (if not before). It was on the pilgrimage route between Canterbury, Chichester and Lewes and is on the edge of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
The town developed due to it being a central point on various routes across Sussex and today it remains bustling! It centres around the 16th century bridge over the River Uck at the bottom of the High Street. Famous people with connections to the town include Lord Lucan (who was last seen at Grants Hill House) and Rag’n’Bone Man who is from the town. The town is also famous for its Pudding Cake Lane and pudding cake.
Bridge Cottage Museum
The 15th-century Bridge Cottage is the oldest house still standing in Uckfield. It’s now a heritage centre and museum and is also in charge of Nutley Windmill. You’ll find it right next to the River Uck.
The Picture House Cinema
The Picture House in the High Street is an independently run award-winning cinema and restaurant. The cinema part was established in 1916 and is one of the oldest in England. They do VIP cinema experiences.
Uckfield Festival
Uckfield has its own festival in July each year which includes live music, dance and other entertainment.
Uckfield Carnival
The town also has its own carnival on the first weekend in September described as the town’s oldest tradition, with a children’s procession in the afternoon and then a torchlight procession with walking groups, bands and floats in the evening.
Local nature reserves
The town is surrounded by a number of nature reserves including West Park, Hempstead Meadows, Harlands Pond, Nightingale Wood and Millennium Green. There is also the mystical Lake Wood with its caves to explore.
Ashdown Forest
Ashdown Forest covers 10 square miles and is one of the largest open access areas in south east England. It is within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is a mixture of heathland and woodland. It’s also a place of endless walks and amazing views and is home to Ashdown Park Hotel. Which is also a great spot for some afternoon tea.
Nutley Windmill
Nutley Windmill is the oldest, only working open-trestle post mill in the country and an example of the oldest post mill design, known in the country since the 12th Century. It’s over 300 years old and has been on the current site since 1835 (windmills tended to get moved). It shuts in winter and entrance is by voluntary donations. Contact Bridge Cottage Museum for details.
Local vineyards
You can’t go far in Sussex without stumbling across a vineyard and Uckfield is no exception. Bluebell Vineyard Estates is one such and they offer tours and tastings.
Sheffield Park
Just west of the town is Sheffield Park, a National Trust property famous for its Grade I listed landscaped garden and lakes which are surrounded by historic parkland and woodland. In particular, its autumn displays are fabulous!
Bluebell Railway
A hop and a jump from Sheffield Park is the Bluebell Railway famous for its steam trains and heritage line. Any trip on one of their trains is evocative and special.
Golf
If golf is your thing, the East Sussex National Golf Club is just a short drive away and also has a health club and spa. Even nearer to Uckfield is the Piltdown Golf Club.
Barcombe Mills
Barcombe Mills is just outside Uckfield and a great place for walking, kayaking, and river swimming. The Anchor Inn sits river on the river’s edge (the River Ouse) and has boating rights. During the summer you can hire a boat and laze your way down the river!
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