Uckfield Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Uckfield with this travel guide, including a list of places to visit, hiking routes, food and drink scene, and more!


Introduction to Uckfield

Uckfield is a charming town located in East Sussex, in South East England, and it is a must-visit destination for travellers who appreciate the quintessential English countryside. It is situated along the River Uck, and its picturesque landscape is dotted with historic buildings, quaint cottages and lush greenery. Uckfield is an ideal destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

List of Places to Visit in Uckfield

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Bridge Cottage Heritage Centre - This centre is located in a 15th-century timber-framed building and showcases the town’s rich history and heritage.
  • The Nutley Windmill - This historic windmill offers visitors a glimpse of how flour was once made in the town.
  • St. Margaret’s Church - This beautiful church dates back to the 13th century and is known for its stunning stained glass windows and intricate architecture.

Natural Attractions of Uckfield: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ashdown Forest - This magnificent forest spans over 6,500 acres and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy hiking, walking, cycling and horse-riding trails.
  • Sheffield Park and Garden - This beautiful garden features stunning waterfalls, cascading fountains and vibrant flowers.
  • Hempstead Meadows - This nature reserve boasts rare wildflowers and is home to many species of birds and animals.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Uckfield

  • The High Weald Landscape Trail - This hiking trail covers over 100 miles of beautiful countryside, including lush forests, rolling hills and quaint villages.
  • Cuckoo Trail - This trail follows the path of the former railway line from Eastbourne to Heathfield and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The Vanguard Way - This hiking trail covers 66 miles between Newhaven and Croydon and offers breathtaking views of the South Downs.

Best Things to Do in Uckfield: Activities and Tours

  • Bluebell Railway - This heritage railway line offers visitors a chance to travel back in time and experience the charm of vintage steam trains.
  • Sussex Prairie Garden - This garden offers stunning views of wildflower meadows, native plants and expertly designed landscapes.
  • Heaven Farm - This working farm offers visitors a chance to pick their fruit and vegetables, watch farm animals and explore the beautiful countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Uckfield

Day 1 Visit the Bridge Cottage Heritage Centre and explore the town centre
Day 2 Hike the High Weald Landscape Trail
Day 3 Visit the Nutley Windmill and explore the surrounding countryside
Day 4 Explore the Cuckoo Trail by bike
Day 5 Visit the Sheffield Park and Garden
Day 6 Visit Heaven Farm and pick your fruit and vegetables
Day 7 Take a scenic ride on the Bluebell Railway

Food and Drink Scene of Uckfield

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sussex Ale Pudding - This hearty dish features beef and vegetables in a savoury sauce, topped with a layer of golden puff pastry.
  • Pork and Apple Pie - This savoury pie features succulent pork and tangy apples baked in a flaky crust.
  • Sussex Smokie - This traditional fish dish features smoked haddock, potatoes and cream, baked to perfection.

Local Beverages

  • Harvey’s Brewery - This local brewery has been producing award-winning beers since 1790.
  • Ridgeview Wine Estate - This family-owned winery produces some of the best English sparkling wines in the region.
  • Kingscote Estate - This winery produces award-winning wines in an idyllic setting with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Where to Stay in Uckfield: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Buxted Park Hotel - This luxurious hotel features beautiful gardens, elegant rooms and award-winning cuisine.
  • The Highlands Inn - This historic inn offers cosy rooms, traditional pub fare and stunning views of the South Downs.
  • The Rose Cottage Bed and Breakfast - This charming B&B features comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast spread.

What to Buy in Uckfield: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Sussex Charmer Cheese - This award-winning cheese is made from locally sourced milk, and it boasts a creamy texture and a tangy flavour.
  • Sussex Trugs - These handcrafted baskets are made from locally sourced materials and are perfect for carrying fruits, vegetables and flowers.
  • Sussex Gold Rapeseed Oil - This locally produced oil is made from cold-pressed rapeseed and has a mild and nutty flavour.

Local Culture and Customs of Uckfield

Uckfield has a rich cultural heritage, and the town is known for its traditional crafts and festivals. The town hosts an annual cider festival and a vintage car show, both of which attract visitors from all over the world.

Best Time to Visit Uckfield

The best time to visit Uckfield is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the countryside is adorned with colourful flowers and lush greenery.

Do’s and Don’ts of Uckfield

Do:

  • Explore the town centre and visit the local markets and shops.
  • Take a scenic hike or bike ride through the beautiful countryside.
  • Sample the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Leave litter in the countryside.
  • Disturb the local wildlife.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Uckfield

Uckfield is generally a very safe town, but visitors should take normal precautions to ensure their safety, such as locking their doors and windows and avoiding unlit areas at night.

Health in Uckfield

Uckfield has a good healthcare system, and visitors can access medical care at the local clinics and hospitals if needed. Visitors should also ensure that they have adequate travel insurance before travelling.

Getting to Uckfield: Transportation Options and Logistics

Uckfield is easily accessible by road, rail and air.

Airports Near Uckfield

  • Gatwick Airport - This airport is located 23 miles from Uckfield and offers regular flights to many destinations around the world.
  • Heathrow Airport - This airport is located 59 miles from Uckfield and offers regular flights to many destinations around the world.

Bus Stations Near Uckfield

  • Uckfield Bus Station - This bus station is located in the town centre and offers regular services to surrounding towns and cities.
  • Brighton Bus Station - This bus station is located 17 miles from Uckfield and offers regular services to London and other major cities.

Other Options

  • Train - Uckfield has a railway station that offers regular services to London, Brighton and other major cities.
  • Taxi - Taxis are widely available in Uckfield and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.

How to Get Around in Uckfield

Uckfield is a small town that can easily be explored on foot. Visitors can also take buses, taxis or hire a bike to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Uckfield: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lewes - This beautiful town dates back to the medieval period and is known for its historic landmarks and vibrant cultural scene.
  • Brighton - This seaside town is known for its colourful beachfront, designer boutiques, and lively nightlife scene.
  • Ashford - This town is known for its beautiful countryside and is a great destination for hiking, cycling and horse-riding enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Uckfield is a hidden gem in the heart of East Sussex, and it offers something for every type of traveller. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s rich cultural heritage, immersing yourself in the beauty of nature, or sampling the local cuisine and beverages, Uckfield is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.

Bride Cottage, Uckfield Bride Cottage, Uckfield Uckfield Railway Station Uckfield Railway Station Cars and motorcycles in the Bentley Wildfowl and Motor Museum Cars and motorcycles in the Bentley Wildfowl and Motor Museum A steam train on the Lavender Line A steam train on the Lavender Line High Street in Uckfield High Street in Uckfield