Burgess Hill Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Burgess Hill, UK? Read our comprehensive guide for tips on what to see and do, where to stay, and much more!


Introduction to Burgess Hill

Burgess Hill is a charming town located in West Sussex, South East England. With its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage, Burgess Hill is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic British experience. Whether you’re looking to explore the town’s historical landmarks, soak up the beauty of its natural surroundings, or indulge in its delicious local cuisine, Burgess Hill has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best things to do and see in Burgess Hill, as well as share tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Burgess Hill

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Burgess Hill is home to a wealth of cultural and historical landmarks, including:

  • St John the Evangelist Church: This beautiful 19th-century church boasts stunning architectural features and is home to an array of fascinating historical artifacts.
  • The Burgess Hill Museum: Discover the rich history of Burgess Hill and the surrounding area with a visit to this fascinating museum, which showcases a variety of exhibits and displays.
  • The Triangle War Memorial: Pay your respects to the brave soldiers who lost their lives in the First World War with a visit to this historic monument.

Natural Attractions of Burgess Hill: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For those seeking outdoor adventure and breathtaking natural scenery, Burgess Hill won’t disappoint. Popular attractions include:

  • Bedelands Nature Reserve: This beautiful nature reserve features lush woodlands, tranquil ponds, and a range of interesting wildlife. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a picnic with family and friends.
  • Ditchling Common Country Park: Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the South Downs National Park at this beautiful country park, which is ideal for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.
  • Clayton Windmills: Take a trip to these historic windmills and enjoy the stunning views of the rolling hills and countryside that surround Burgess Hill.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Burgess Hill

Burgess Hill is home to an array of scenic hiking and biking routes that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • The South Downs Way: This stunning 100-mile walking trail takes hikers through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region, including rolling hills, woodland, and coastlines.
  • The Sussex Border Path: This 150-mile walking route meanders through the beautiful Sussex countryside and offers stunning views of the South Downs, as well as picturesque villages and historical landmarks.
  • The Downs Link: This scenic walking and cycling trail runs for 36 miles and takes visitors through some of the most beautiful countryside in the area.

Best Things to Do in Burgess Hill: Activities and Tours

From historical landmarks to family-friendly activities, Burgess Hill has something for everyone. Some of the best things to do in Burgess Hill include:

  • Go Ape: This thrilling outdoor adventure park challenges visitors to tackle a range of obstacle courses amongst the treetops, including zip lines, cargo nets, and Tarzan swings.
  • Mid Sussex Golf Club: Golf enthusiasts will love this picturesque 18-hole golf course, which boasts stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The King’s Head Pub: This charming local pub is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some delicious local cuisine, as well as a range of refreshing local beers and ales.

Week-Long Itinerary for Burgess Hill

Day 1: Explore the historical landmarks of Burgess Hill, including St John the Evangelist Church and the Burgess Hill Museum. Day 2: Take a trip to the beautiful Bedelands Nature Reserve and enjoy a peaceful walk amongst the woodlands and ponds. Day 3: Visit the picturesque Ditchling Common Country Park and enjoy some hiking or cycling in the stunning surroundings. Day 4: Experience the thrills and excitement of Go Ape for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Day 5: Take a trip to the Clayton Windmills and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Day 6: Play a round of golf at the Mid Sussex Golf Club or relax with some delicious local cuisine at the King’s Head Pub. Day 7: Take a day trip to nearby Brighton and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this beautiful seaside town.

Food and Drink Scene of Burgess Hill

Must-Try Dishes

Burgess Hill is home to a range of delicious local treats, including:

  • Sussex Smokies: This mouth-watering dish features smoked haddock and cheese topped with a creamy sauce, baked until golden brown.
  • Arundel Torte: This sweet and nutty dessert is made with almonds, eggs, and sugar, and is a local specialty in the nearby town of Arundel.
  • Harvey’s Sussex Best Bitter: This delicious local ale boasts a deep, rich flavor with hints of chocolate and coffee.

Local Beverages

In addition to Harvey’s Sussex Best Bitter, Burgess Hill is also home to a range of delicious local beverages, including:

  • South Downs Water: This refreshing bottled water is sourced from the beautiful South Downs countryside and boasts a crisp, clean taste.
  • Ridgeview Sparkling Wines: This award-winning vineyard produces a range of high-quality sparkling wines, perfect for a celebratory drink or special occasion.

Where to Stay in Burgess Hill: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Burgess Hill offers a range of comfortable and affordable accommodation options, including:

  • Premier Inn Burgess Hill: This family-friendly hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms, as well as a range of amenities and facilities for guests.
  • The Old Mill Inn: This charming guesthouse is located in a picturesque 18th-century mill building and features comfortable rooms and a range of dining options.
  • Acorns Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel is perfect for backpackers and travelers on a budget, with clean and comfortable dorm rooms and a range of communal facilities.

What to Buy in Burgess Hill: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Burgess Hill offers an array of unique souvenirs and local products, including:

  • Handmade crafts and gifts from local artisans, available at the Burgess Hill Farmers Market and other local shops.
  • Local cheeses and meats, perfect for a picnic or a gift for foodie friends and family members.
  • Handcrafted pottery and ceramics, available at local shops and galleries throughout the town.

Local Culture and Customs of Burgess Hill

Burgess Hill boasts a rich cultural heritage and is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors to the town should respect local customs and traditions, including:

  • Dressing appropriately for visits to churches or other religious sites.
  • Respecting local wildlife when enjoying outdoor activities.
  • Engaging in respectful dialogue with locals and respecting their opinions and beliefs.

Best Time to Visit Burgess Hill

Burgess Hill is a beautiful destination year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months, between June and August, when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Burgess Hill

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and sample delicious local treats like Sussex Smokies and Arundel Torte.
  • Take advantage of the town’s stunning natural scenery with hikes and walks through the countryside.
  • Visit historical landmarks like St John the Evangelist Church and the Burgess Hill Museum to learn more about the town’s rich cultural heritage.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local wildlife or damage the environment when enjoying outdoor activities.
  • Engage in loud or disruptive behavior that could disturb the peace and tranquility of the town.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions when interacting with locals.

Safety and Health

Burgess Hill is generally a safe and welcoming destination, but visitors should take some precautions to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

Safety in Burgess Hill

  • Keep valuables and personal belongings secure and avoid leaving them unattended in public places.
  • Use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings at all times, especially when exploring the countryside or more remote areas.
  • Be cautious when driving on rural roads, especially at night or in inclement weather conditions.

Health in Burgess Hill

  • Burgess Hill has a range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals and medical clinics, for visitors in need of medical attention.
  • Visitors should take all necessary precautions to prevent illness, including staying hydrated, avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures, and practicing good hygiene.

Getting to Burgess Hill: Transportation Options and Logistics

Burgess Hill is easily accessible by a range of transportation options, including:

Airports Near Burgess Hill

  • London Gatwick Airport: The closest airport to Burgess Hill, just 20 minutes away by car or taxi.
  • London Heathrow Airport: Approximately an hour and a half’s drive from Burgess Hill.

Bus Stations Near Burgess Hill

  • Burgess Hill Bus Station: Serves local and regional routes throughout the town and surrounding areas.
  • Haywards Heath Bus Station: Located just a short distance from Burgess Hill, this bus station provides access to a range of regional and national routes.

Other Options

  • Train: Burgess Hill has its own railway station, which provides frequent services to destinations throughout the region, including Brighton and London.
  • Taxi and Car Rental: Taxis and car rental services are readily available in Burgess Hill, providing convenient and comfortable transportation options for visitors.

How to Get Around in Burgess Hill

Burgess Hill is a compact town and can be easily explored on foot. Visitors can also use bicycles, taxis, or local buses to get around more quickly and comfortably.

Where to Go Next from Burgess Hill: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Burgess Hill is surrounded by an array of charming towns, attractions, and natural landmarks, including:

  • Brighton: Just a short drive or train ride from Burgess Hill, this vibrant seaside town boasts a range of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and music venues.
  • Arundel: Classic village with a castle, cathedral, and gardens
  • Lewes: The medieval town of Lewes lies just to the north of Burgess Hill and is famous for its historic castle, quaint shops, and picturesque streets.

Conclusion

Burgess Hill is a beautiful destination that offers an array of attractions and experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking to explore the town’s rich cultural heritage, soak up the beauty of its natural surroundings, or indulge in its delicious local cuisine, Burgess Hill won’t disappoint. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your perfect visit and make the most of everything this charming town has to offer.