Things to do in Haywards Heath
A visit to Haywards Heath is brilliant way to discover the gems that dot the Sussex landscape. Around an hour from both our Sussex holiday parks, it’s a refreshing day out in the heart of the county’s countryside.
The things to do in Haywards Heath and the surrounding area are a lovely day out from our Church Farm and Combe Haven holiday parks, and we’ve put together this article to showcase the best of them. Have a read and get planning your discovery of this beautiful place surrounded by Sussex greenery.
Beech Hurst Park Miniature Railway
Address: Beech Hurst Gardens, Haywards Heath RH16 4BB
Kick off your time in Haywards Heath by heading to a railway like no other. Beech Hurst Park’s tracks take the word ‘miniature’ to the next level, and a ride on these cute locomotives is a brilliant way to see this lovely park in the heart of the Sussex town.
A ride on here won’t break the bank, making it one of the cheapest things to do in Haywards Heath as well as the best. When you’re done, go for a stroll around the park, practice your forehands and backhands on the tennis courts or eat the Harvester restaurant just a stone’s throw away.
Ouse Valley Viaduct
Address: Borde Hill Ln, Haywards Heath RH17 6QP
Get your cameras at the ready for the spectacular Ouse Valley Viaduct to the north of Haywards Heath. The magnificent structure has stood here in all its glory since 1839, carrying commuter and freight train services from London to Brighton and back.
As the name suggests, it crosses the lovely River Ouse that flows through the heart of Sussex, and you can tie in a photo or two of the viaducts with a stroll amongst its surroundings. There are regular services across what’s described as the most elegant viaduct in Britain, so it won’t take long before you see a trainspotting photo opportunity.
Borde Hill Garden
Address: Borde Hill Ln, Haywards Heath RH16 1XP
The beautiful Borde Hill Garden sits on the former Tudor grounds of Borde Hill Estate just north of Haywards Heath. There’s beautiful horticulture and masses of green space to explore with the family here.
This place isn’t just for walking though, with a kid’s playground, pristine café and plant shop all on site to bring you one of the best things to do in Haywards Heath. To avoid queueing on the day, book your tickets online in advance. You’ll be paying less this way too, so it’s a win-win option.
The Green Tree Gallery
Address: Millbrook Building, Borde Hill Garden, Balcombe Rd, Haywards Heath RH16 1XP
The Green Tree Gallery sits in Borde Hill Garden and is one of the best things to do in Haywards Heath in its own right. This contemporary arts and crafts space was founded in 2008 and has been a hit with visitors to the area ever since.
The gallery has given local artists a springboard to showcasing their work and is a great place to admire, gift or buy a memento for themselves. Check out the gallery’s website to see what’s on and enjoy an easy going visit to here and Borde Hill Garden.
Nymans Gardens and House, Handcross
Address: Nymans, Handcross, Haywards Heath RH17 6EB
A scenic drive up the A23 from us down on the coast conveniently gets you to Nymans Gardens and House. Just a short distance from Haywards Heath, this romantic garden is set around a historic house and its ruins. The manor oozes medieval charm but was actually built in 1839 and stands gloriously amongst the Sussex landscape to this very day. Pretty gardens are great for a romantic stroll, and there’s a brilliant bookshop on site that’s been rated as one of the best in National Trust hands.
Victoria Park
Address: 120 South Rd, Haywards Heath RH16 4LR
With a great playground for the kids, tennis courts and a skate park, there's so much to keep you entertained at Victoria Park. Head to one of its many open spaces to sunbathe or enjoy a picnic in the open air, the choice is yours!
Wakehurst Place
Address: Selsfield Rd, Haywards Heath RH17 6TN
As the country estate of the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, Wakehurst Place is home to an incredible array of plants and landscapes. Wander through the beautifully designed gardens, explore the wild woodlands, and enjoy a stroll around the serene lakes. And don’t forget to check out the Millennium Seed Bank for a fascinating highlight, showcasing global efforts to conserve plant species.
The Bluebell Railway
Address: Sussex, Sheffield Park, Uckfield TN22 3QL
Perfect for families, train enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a unique day out, the Bluebell Railway features lovingly restored vintage carriages and locomotives. As you chug along the tracks, you'll enjoy picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and the charming atmosphere of a bygone era. When you pull into the stations, you'll discover living museums, with period details and exhibits to explore.
Washbrooks Farm
Address: Brighton Rd, Hurstpierpoint, Hassocks BN6 9EF
Washbrooks Farm is a fantastic day out for families to meet the friendly farm animals, from goats and sheep to pigs and ponies. There's plenty of space to run around, with outdoor play areas, a sandpit, and tractor rides adding to the excitement. And there's even a soft play area for the little ones to go wild exploring.
Tilgate Park
Address: Tilgate Dr, Crawley RH10 5PQ
Head to Tilgate Park where you can stroll around its beautiful gardens and lakes for a lovely family day out. The park's on-site Nature Centre is also hit for families, with a variety of animals to meet and learn about. And if that's not enough, you can rent a boat for a pretty paddle on the lake, or brave the Go Ape treetop course.
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Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
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Only available in Cook’s venues and not from our Cook’s vans. Offer includes any pie: Minced Beef and Onion, Chicken and Mushroom, Steak or Cheese and Onion, fish cake or large sausage (choose from plain or battered) and a portion of small chips, any side and a soft drink. Sides include curry sauce, gravy, beans or mushy peas. Drinks include any soft drinks can or bottled water (excludes Coca Cola). ^Some of our Cook’s do not serve haddock - in this case, an upgrade to cod will be the only option of fish to purchase. Dishes cannot be changed or swapped for alternatives. Non-inclusive of upgrades or add-ons. Discount is applied if all dishes and drinks are purchased together, and this must be in the same transaction. Available daily, subject to venue opening hours. *Some of our Cook’s do not open for lunch trading. Offer is only available when ordering via QR code, app or website and for collection only. Offer is only available to Owners who are staying on park. Owners can use their owner discount on top of this offer. Offer may be withdrawn or changed at any time, without notice. Offer is valid March 2025 - November 2025. Prices include VAT. This offer can be used in conjunction with all other offers. Offer not available in any on-park franchises. Haven Holidays is a trading name of Bourne Leisure Limited. Registered office: 1 Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 4YL. Registered in England and Wales, no 0401166
*New holiday homes from £29,995 – UPDATED 17 January 2025
*Holiday home price is based on a new 2-bedroom Willerby Ellerton holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2025 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 17 January 2025, price is available at Church Farm, Golden Sands, Quay West, Skegness and Church Farm.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Pre-owned holiday homes from £14,995 – UPDATED 17 January 2025
*Holiday home price is based on a pre-owned holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2025 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 17 January 2025, price is available at Church Farm, Cleethorpes Beach, Combe Haven, Craig Tara, Doniford Bay, Far Grange, Golden Sands, Haggerston Castle, Quay West, Skegness, The Orchards and Wild Duck. Price can be withdrawn at any time.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.