Haywards Heath, West Sussex A True English Gem

Of all the beautiful places in the Country of England, there are few that can compare with the true English gem that is called Haywards Heath - West Sussex. Nestling between verdant hills in the very centre of the Sussex countryside the scenery is magnificent. There are close to 128 square miles of hills and valleys, rivers and villages in this area, which has been designated an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

From the South Downs National Park to the North Weald this ancient market town is surprisingly less than one hour away from London the capital city of England. This part of West Sussex is blessed with a multitude of intriguing ancient houses, vineyards, barn conversions and quiet villages.

There are many fine Victorian and Edwardian residences in the town of Haywards Heath. These stately piles stand in manicured gardens ringed by a beautiful conservation area that is known as Muster Green. The town has a warm and friendly air about it, and it is known for a wide variety of bistros, wine bars and excellent restaurants serving up the finest in cuisine at reasonable prices too. Most of these establishments are in an area of town that has been pedestrianised and called the Broadway.

There are some great places to relax and enjoy yourself, for example Beech Hurst Gardens and Victoria Park where you can have a picnic whilst listening to an open air concert or getting involved in the popular local sport of pitch and putt. For the more adventurous, you can explore further afield and take the numerous walking and cycle trails out to the many quaint villages and towns dotted about the West Sussex landscape.

A town worth mentioning is East Grinstead. This is a market town that dates back to the year circa 1221.It has several fine Georgian and Regency buildings and a number of the 14th century timber buildings. This makes East Grinstead, a special place in the hearts of history lovers.

West Sussex is worth a visit at any time of the year. In the springtime, the whole region is ablaze with bluebells, masses of them! These can be viewed on foot or on the local steam railway called, naturally, the Bluebell steam railway. If you are an animal lover why not pay a visit and see the spring lambs at Washbrooks Farm. Also, see the wonderful colourful gardens at the Great Gardens of Sussex attraction.

In the summer time, there is so much to see and do; the English Wine Week, for example, the South of England show and not forgetting the famous old maze at Tulleys Farm. The autumn is very special. Bracing walks, over the yellow and orange tinted Downs, over to Wakehurst and High Beeches. In wintertime? Well, you could always go to a local old Sussex pub and down a pint or two of the best English ale, accompanied by a steaming hot roast beef luncheon. What could be better on a winter's day in Haywards Heath - West Sussex than that?