Best attractions and places to see around Haywards Heath include a variety of natural landscapes, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. Located in Mid Sussex, the town's development was influenced by the London to Brighton railway. The area features impressive Victorian engineering, extensive gardens, and serene natural reserves. Visitors can explore a range of outdoor activities and historical points of interest.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Haywards Heath.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Ditchling Museum of Art & Craft has an excellent cafe serving delicious cakes
1
0
There is a local car park at the Activity Centre leading straight onto the walk around the reservoir. Currently the foot path is very wet and muddy in places but would be a nice walk spring/summer/ autumn. There are a few benches around the reservoir for stopping and taking in the view.
0
0
The perimeter path around the reservoir is very muddy in places currently due to the amount of rain. Welly boots needed in some places.
0
0
At over 650 feet (200 m), Ditchling Beacon gives you a good climb and a great vantage point to see out over the surrounding countryside. To the north you look back at the lush countryside of the Weald, to the south are views of Brighton, and to the east and west, the rolling undulating views out over the South Downs.
1
1
This is the location of the only (single) public toilet on this route, and there’s also a kiosk for hot and cold drinks and ice creams. Long queues for both.
0
0
Delicious coffee from a small converted horse trailer. It won't always be there. But if it is, it's a recommendation.
0
0
These old windmills are the best proof that people were clever enough a number of centuries ago - long before the discovery of electricity and the inventions that resulted from it - to harness the power of the elements for their own purposes: no human or animal muscle power is needed for the grinding process, but the wind captured by the wings is enough to drive the heavy millstones and thus, for example, to grind flour from grain (grain mills) or to press oil from olives (oil mills). Often they are only technical and historical evidence of a long tradition of craftsmanship, because most of the old mills have been abandoned over time.
0
0
Haywards Heath is surrounded by diverse natural landscapes. You can visit Ardingly Reservoir, a Local Nature Reserve known for watersports and birdwatching. Other options include the extensive gardens at Nymans Gardens and House, the botanical collections at Wakehurst Place, and the tranquil woodlands of Bedelands Farm Nature Reserve.
Yes, the area offers a variety of walking trails. For easy hikes, you can explore routes like the Holy Trinity Church, Cuckfield – Blunts Wood Bridleway loop. The Easy hikes around Haywards Heath guide provides more options. For more challenging walks, the South Downs National Park and the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are easily accessible.
For serene gardens, consider Borde Hill Garden, an award-winning garden with rare plants and themed rooms. Nymans Gardens and House offers extensive gardens, romantic ruins, and scenic woodland walks. Wakehurst Place, the country estate of Kew Gardens, also features beautifully designed gardens and wild woodlands. High Beeches Woodland and Water Garden is another outstanding example of a woodland garden.
The Ouse Valley Viaduct is an impressive Victorian structure, often called 'the most elegant viaduct in Britain.' You can also visit the Jack and Jill Windmills, historic Grade II-listed structures that can be explored during summer. Nearby, All Saints Church in Lindfield dates back to shortly after the Norman invasion, and Fletching Village offers many historical buildings and a church.
Families can enjoy various activities. Ardingly Reservoir is suitable for watersports and birdwatching. The Jack and Jill Windmills are open to the public on select days during summer. Beech Hurst Park Miniature Railway offers charming train rides, and Nymans Gardens provides plenty of space for children to explore.
Yes, the Bluebell Railway offers a nostalgic experience with steam locomotives, allowing visitors to step back in time and enjoy a ride through the Sussex countryside.
For road cycling, routes like the 'Turner's Hill South Climb – West Grinstead Station loop' offer moderate challenges. Gravel biking enthusiasts can explore routes such as the 'Blunts Wood Bridleway – Pookchurch Vineyard Bridleway loop.' You can find more options in the Road Cycling Routes around Haywards Heath and Gravel biking around Haywards Heath guides.
The highest point along the Sussex Downs is Ditchling Beacon. Standing at 814 feet (248 m) above sea level, it offers wonderful panoramic views across the Weald, the South Downs, and even to the sea. It's also an Iron Age hillfort.
Yes, Ardingly Reservoir is a designated Local Nature Reserve and a wildlife haven, with two bird hides on its eastern shore where ospreys have been sighted. Bedelands Farm Nature Reserve also provides numerous footpaths through woodlands and wildflower meadows, supporting diverse wildlife.
The nearby village of Cuckfield hosts the Cuckfield Museum, offering insights into local history. Lindfield is known for its picturesque medieval timber-framed houses and a natural spring-fed village pond, providing a charming cultural experience.
The Broadway is a bustling center in Haywards Heath, known for its eclectic mix of coffee shops, bars, pubs, and restaurants. It's a popular spot for dining and socializing.
Yes, the Tulleys Tulip Fest is a notable seasonal event, celebrating spring with 1.5 million tulips of over 100 varieties, creating a vibrant spectacle.
The Ouse Valley Viaduct is famous for its impressive Victorian engineering and elegant design. It's often described as 'probably the most elegant viaduct in Britain,' featuring 37 semi-circular arches and standing nearly 100 feet tall.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: