We finally left Brighton and bought ourselves a home in Burgess Hill and we couldn’t be happier! The people are incredibly friendly, the area is stunning and it’s really calm in a way we were hoping to find, exhausted by the drunk people walking home at 5am past our maisonette when we lived in Brighton.
With each passing month, I’m trying to see new sights, try new activities and embrace new experiences, so I will most certainly add to this list over time, but below are the best things to do in Burgess Hill that I’ve found.
Table of Contents
1) The Mill Pond Waterfall At Valebridge
We arguably peaked too quickly, as this was the first place we checked out when we moved here and it’s easily one of the top attractions in Burgess Hill.
The waterfall area, despite all its beauty, is often deserted, except for the occasional other dog walker, meaning you can relax here with some peace and quiet and enjoy the views.
Forget walking along the road side, if you head to Wivelsfield station, from there you can walk North through fields until you reach the Mill Pond.
The pond itself is wide and I noticed a couple of fishermen at the side, which apparently you need a set license for. There are a number of different types of fish you may spot here, such as carp, ghost carp, and a tench. You even might spot an eel, something I’d prefer to avoid!
You can easily access Valebridge Mill Pond via foot, however a few of the paths get a bit confusing, so make sure to keep Google Maps open.
2) Bedelands Nature Reserve
The Bedelands nature reserve is incredible for dog walkers and a nice area to get away from it all. We’re lucky to live close by, so this has become a common dog walk for us, while everyone is incredibly friendly as you walk through.
I do have a habit of taking a wrong turn and ending up back at the entrance, but that’s more of a reflection of my bad sense of direction.
Heads up, there are often lots of puddles, so you may need some wellies or thick boots, a lesson I had to learn the hard way.
You can enter the Bedelands from near Wivelsfield station, so if you’re travelling by train then this is your nearest stop. Also, if anyone knows the proper way to say Bedelands, please do let me know, every time I hear the name it seems to be pronounced differently.
The local nature reserve covers an astonishing 80 acres of land, so this might take several visits in order to fully tick it all off. I do enjoy taking slightly different routes each time and getting completely lost.
One of the easiest ways in which a lot of people access the Bedelands is via Leylands park, just off Maple drive.
3) Golf Driving Range
No, it’s not a great picture above, but I didn’t take a shot while I was having a go at the golf, I might have to go back just to get a snap. The shot above is right next to the golf range, at the Oak Barn.
I booked myself a golf lesson for thirty minutes and actually learned a huge amount in that time, so I can definitely recommend giving it a go. The guy was friendly, patient and perfectly demonstrated how you can quickly improve your game.
It’s good I started with a lesson, as I didn’t want to pick up any bad habits. They also have a 9 hole course if you fancy the real thing, something I’m yet to do. It’s a 9 hole par 3 course, I hope that means more to you than it does to me.
They have a store for equipment, or you can rent items, while with the class I booked I didn’t have to pay for the equipment as it came with it, I just needed to rent some balls.
The venue opens at 9am Mon-Fri and at 8am on weekends, meanwhile it stays open Mon-Thur till 9:30pm, till 8:30pm on Friday and 7:30pm on Sat & Sun.
4) The Triangle
As soon as I moved to Burgess Hill, everyone asked me about how many times I had been to the Triangle. I’ll be honest, I had never heard of it, but I grew up in London, whereas everyone in Sussex would head to Burgess Hill predominantly for the swimming pool.
Whenever a water slide is involved, it always has to sneak onto a list of the best things to do! You can head there for a casual swim, to use the gym, to climb the climbing wall or to have a go at the many sports that take place here, such as badminton and squash.
The main pool has the lane swim sessions, while the leisure pool has ‘fun splash and slide’ times which are pretty self explanatory. The fun leisure zone doesn’t seem to have max numbers, however if you’re hoping to swim in the lanes then you should check the timetable and work out when’s best to visit. It appears like they allow up to 48 places in the lanes.
They also occasionally have aquafit, as well as a beach area setup for babies and toddlers, making it ideal for family-friendly activities in Burgess Hill. The outdoor pool has also now reopened, if you can handle the colder weather! Children under 8 will need to be supervised in the swimming pool.
The gym has all the main equipment you would hope for, while their personal trainers charge £30 for 30 minutes, or £40 for 60 minutes.
5) Burgess Hill Town FC
If you’re a footie fan, then a chance to watch the local team on a Saturday is a must. The games attract around 400 people (not always, it depends on the weather).
Since I’ve moved here, I’ve made it an aim to start going to the games regularly, so hopefully see a few of you down there!
Placed in the Isthmian League South East Division, we have to hope for an investment from a Ryan Reynolds & Rob McElhenney type so we can shoot up to the Premier League!
I spent 15 years living in Brighton and saw them transform from a lower league team to a side competing for European spots, so I would love to see the same for Burgess Hill, even if it’s a pipe dream for now.
The stadium has a great bar area, while the staff are very friendly and always happy to answer any questions you have. They’re also very active on Instagram, so you can keep up with all the scores in case you don’t manage to get to a game.
6) The Sportsman Pub Dining Pods
Ok, this one is a cheeky inclusion, as it is on the border of Burgess Hill and technically counts as Hurstpierpoint. But give me a break, we all claim it, it’s always highlighted by everyone in Burgess Hill as the best pub in town.
You can sit inside the country pub or you can request one of the pods to give yourselves some more privacy.
The food is incredible, while it has a nice beer garden to enjoy when it’s not raining. This is a dog friendly pub in Burgess Hill, ideal as many of them aren’t and we have two pooches we need to bring everywhere. They even have a ‘hound wall of fame’ for all the dogs that regularly visit the pub.
The walk to the Sportsman is also quite nice, going along the quiet Gatehouse Lane to the West of the town. If you fancy an alternative route back, you can wander through Pangdean Lane Meadows.
7) Pub Crawl Through Town
Town is pretty much one straight road. At one end, near the station, you have The Top House, before you get to The Railway directly opposite Burgess Hill train station.
Following on from this, you have Quench Bar with an unbelievable cheese board with a twist. Further along is Block & Gasket, which plays all the big football matches, plus it has some great drinks on tap and stays open late with a dance floor.
The final stop on the list is Wetherspoons, so you could either start or finish here depending on what you’d prefer. We often start at Spoons, so people are near the station at the end of the night when they need to head off.
Of course, you have other really nice pubs, including the Woolpack and Oak Barn, however they’re very much on their own a bit further out, so they would be a separate trip.
Most of the pubs on this list are dog friendly, especially the Woolpack, where they were really kind and welcoming to little Ruby, but the Oak Barn doesn’t allow dogs annoyingly.
The food is also a little pricey at the Oak Barn, but I guess you’re paying for the setting, as it truly is the most stunning building in Burgess Hill. With the log fire burning, it feels just perfect in the winter time.
8) The Martlets Shopping Centre
The Martlets Shopping Centre offers a convenient, local shopping experience in the heart of Burgess Hill. While it may not be the largest retail hub, it boasts a delightful mix of shops and amenities that cater to the community’s needs.
You can find a variety of stores, from popular high street brands to unique local independents. Whether you’re looking for fashion, home goods, or treats for your pet, the Martlets has something to offer. Don’t forget to stop by B&M for great value home essentials, or pop into New Look for the latest trends (although they don’t sell men’s clothes which I found frustrating).
If you’re in need of a food shop, Waitrose provides a fantastic selection of quality products, making it easy to stock up on your favorites. For a quick coffee break or a light snack, the Costa café is the perfect spot to relax and recharge, although again I’d prefer a local independent cafe.
The centre is also a great place to meet up with friends or enjoy some time with family. With a welcoming atmosphere and community events throughout the year, there’s always something happening. Whether it’s seasonal fairs or local markets, the Martlets Shopping Centre fosters a sense of community and connection.
Additionally, the shopping centre is easily accessible, making it a convenient destination for both locals and visitors. With ample parking and public transport links nearby, it’s a hassle-free stop during your day out in Burgess Hill.
Convenient parking is key to a smooth visit to the Martlets Shopping Centre in Burgess Hill. The area offers several pay and display car parks, ensuring you have easy access to all the shops and amenities.
Pay and Display Car Parks
Burgess Hill has well-maintained pay and display car parks with the following details:
- Hours of Operation: 8am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday (excluding bank holidays)
Charges:
- 0 to 1 hour: £1.10
- 1 to 2 hours: £1.60
- 2 to 3 hours: £2.60
- 3 to 4 hours: £3.80
- More than 4 hours: £5.20
These charges make it easy to plan your visit, whether you’re stopping by for a quick errand or spending the day exploring.
9) Orion Cinema
One of the last cinemas fighting the big chains, Orion (or Onion as I was stupidly calling it when I first moved here accidentally) is a cinema with two decent screens and regular new movies to show.
They also occasionally live screen events and productions, such as opera. This is a favourite with locals and I hope it never goes, my childhood weekends were spent in the cinema watching the latest flicks and I love the fact this town has a cinema.
The seats are nice and spacious, while they make sure to completely clean up the room before each screening. Nothing beats a bit of popcorn and watching a movie on the big screen, plus you can feel good about supporting an independent cinema.
They list ‘what’s on‘ on their website, so you can make sure your favourite film is available. If you can’t spot it, don’t hesitate to reach out, I emailed them about Oppenheimer, as it wasn’t showing on the list, to which they informed me it would be shown in 2 weeks time, so it stopped me booking a trip down to Brighton.
Due to the limited number of screens, you can’t expect every movie to be playing, normally with three options per day.
10) A Game Of Pool Or Sit In The Beer Garden At The Watermill Inn
I do love a game of pool, even if I’m absolutely useless at it. On the left hand side of the Watermill Inn, you have a pool table setup, as well as a dartboard.
The beer garden itself is really quite expansive and normally you can find yourself a table without too many issues.
Away from the main street, this is our local pub and one we visit quite often, while the staff are incredibly friendly. The plasma screens are setup inside so you can watch the football or whatever big sporting event is on (I purely watch football, so the rest is a mystery to me).
They also serve Blue Moon, my favourite beer, which is probably the reason this pub became my go-to place very quickly.
The location is also right alongside Wivelsfield station, so if you’re not from the area, this is ideal for a quick stop before heading on. You’re also not too far from the Bedelands in case you want to go on a long walking trip and finish it off with a pint.
The tables in the garden have built-in parasols so you can shade yourself from the sun.
So do you think I’ve left anything off the list? Is there a key activity I have to try out? Please do let me know and I’ll do my best to give it a try and update the article.
Where to Eat After Your Adventure
After a day of exploring Burgess Hill, you’ll want to refuel at one of the town’s fantastic restaurants or pubs. Here are some of the top spots to satisfy your cravings:
Bangkok Brasserie
For a taste of Thailand, look no further than Bangkok Brasserie. This cosy restaurant is known for its delicious red Thai curry, a personal favorite, along with crispy spring rolls that are perfect for sharing. The inviting atmosphere makes it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring or a game of golf.
Lemongrass
Another excellent Thai option, Lemongrass offers a delightful menu filled with authentic dishes. It’s a great alternative if you’re looking for a varied selection of flavours and they did a great set menu.
Buon Appetito
If you’re in the mood for Italian, Buon Appetito is a beloved local favorite. They have classic hearty pasta dishes like a carbonara or bolognese, while you can choose from spaghetti, linguine, penne, tagliatelle or a gluten free option. They have freshly made pizzas in their Izzo Neapolitan pizza oven, which are sure to please. It’s a perfect spot for a family dinner or a cozy date night.
Spiral Tex Mex
For those craving something a bit spicier, Spiral Tex Mex serves up a delicious array of Mexican dishes. From tacos to enchiladas, you’re sure to find something that hits the spot. They also have jalapeno poppers, a favourite of mine. You can also opt for sharing platters which is great if you arrive as a group.
The Oak Barn
If traditional pub food is what you’re after, The Oak Barn is a charming choice. With a menu featuring classic favorites, it’s the perfect place to relax with friends and enjoy a tasty meal. This one is a bit on the pricey end, but it’s a beautiful setting and they do an amazing steak which you’ll love. This is a popular date night scene, while you might even spot the occasional proposal.
The Railway
Another great option for pub grub, The Railway boasts a welcoming atmosphere and a menu filled with delicious comfort food. It’s an ideal stop if you have to head back on the train, being directly opposite Burgess Hill Train Station.
Flavour
For Indian cuisine, Flavour is a must-try. Known for its rich curries and flavourful dishes, it’s perfect for dining in or taking out. It’s near the station, making it very convenient, while the taste was unbelievable, I can’t wait to go back for another Tikka Masala.
Hot and Spicy
If you’re looking for a reliable takeaway option, Hot and Spicy offers a decent selection of Indian dishes that you can enjoy in the comfort of your home. The last time we ordered it, it wasn’t quite at the level we’ve been used to, but we’ve ordered from there for a couple of years now and love their food.
Naasta
For something unique, Naasta specialises in Indian street food and has become quite popular among locals for takeaway. It’s a fantastic way to sample a variety of flavourful dishes such as the chana masala, paneer kofta makhani or beef kala bhuna.
Quench
Finally, don’t forget to stop by Quench, a trendy bar where you can unwind with tasty treats. Their jalapeno poppers are a personal favorite, adding a little kick to your evening. I normally have a drink here as they have a great selection of IPA’s on tap, while they also offer pizza but I haven’t yet given it a try.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, Burgess Hill has something to satisfy every palate after your travels!
Conclusion
Burgess Hill is a relatively small towen in West Sussex, with a population of 30,000, so you’re relatively limited on activities, however the trade-off is the people are so incredibly friendly and you don’t have to worry about battling crowds.
A nice meal at Bangkok Brasserie always goes down a treat, or you could enjoy a pint at the Oak Barn or Woolpack, or the slightly further Sportsman.
There are plenty of dog walking routes, the Bedelands arguably being the most popular, with large expanses of land to let your dogs roam.
Moving to Burgess Hill has been a breath of fresh air, and I’ve loved every moment of discovering this charming town. From the tranquil beauty of the Mill Pond Waterfall to the vibrant community spirit at the local football matches, Burgess Hill has so much to offer for everyone.
As I continue to explore, I’ll be updating this list with more places and activities, so be sure to check back! If you have any recommendations or hidden gems that I’ve missed, feel free to drop a comment below. I’d love to hear your suggestions and try them out!
Happy exploring!