Best attractions and places to see around Burgess Hill include natural reserves, historic sites, and scenic viewpoints. This West Sussex town offers a blend of natural beauty, featuring ancient woodlands and tranquil reservoirs, alongside local points of interest. It serves as a gateway to the South Downs National Park, providing diverse landscapes for outdoor activities. The area offers a variety of experiences, from exploring nature reserves to visiting historical landmarks.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Ditchling Museum of Art & Craft has an excellent cafe serving delicious cakes
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The perimeter path around the reservoir is very muddy in places currently due to the amount of rain. Welly boots needed in some places.
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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.
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Delicious coffee from a small converted horse trailer. It won't always be there. But if it is, it's a recommendation.
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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.
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This is a beautiful spot, there is a trig point that is placed on one of the ramparts of the actual Iron Age hillfort here. It is very popular with walkers, and families. The valley bowl is also particularly beautiful.
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Ice cream van also serving Tea today (Easter Monday). view from the top on a nice clear day
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The area boasts several natural highlights. You can visit Ditchling Beacon, the highest point on the Sussex Downs, offering panoramic views. Another unique natural feature is Devil's Dyke, a picturesque V-shaped chalkland dry valley known for wildflowers and butterflies. For a tranquil experience, explore Ardingly Reservoir, a Local Nature Reserve and wildlife haven.
Yes, the region has a rich history. The iconic Jack and Jill Windmills (Clayton Windmills) are fine examples of old windmills that can be explored on specific days during the summer. Devil's Dyke also has archaeological interest as an Iron Age hillfort. Additionally, the Burgess Hill Heritage & History Association aims to preserve the town's history, with a museum housing artifacts related to the area.
The area offers numerous walking opportunities. Ditchling Beacon and Devil's Dyke are popular for hiking with impressive views. Bedelands Farm Local Nature Reserve provides peaceful trails through ancient meadows and woodlands. For a local option, the Burgess Hill Green Circle Network is a 6-mile circular route connecting various green spaces around the town. You can find more detailed routes in the hiking guide for Burgess Hill.
Absolutely. Ardingly Reservoir is considered family-friendly, offering pleasant walks and watersports. The Jack and Jill Windmills are also a great family outing when open. For indoor fun, The Triangle Leisure Centre features Aztec Fun Pools. Ditchling Common Country Park is ideal for picnics and walks, especially when bluebells bloom in spring.
For breathtaking vistas, head to Ditchling Beacon, the highest point on the Sussex Downs, offering views across the Weald, South Downs, and towards the sea. Blackcap Summit and Trig Point also provides wonderful views over the Weald. Devil's Dyke is another excellent spot for impressive views.
Beyond hiking, you can enjoy watersports like sailing and paddleboarding at Ardingly Reservoir Activity Centre. Cycling is also popular, with various routes available. You can explore mountain biking trails in the area, such as those detailed in the MTB Trails around Burgess Hill guide, or gravel biking routes in the Gravel biking around Burgess Hill guide.
Yes, Burgess Hill is home to Bedelands Farm Local Nature Reserve, a 33-hectare site with ancient meadows, woodlands, and ponds. Ditchling Common Country Park, just outside town, is another expansive nature area. Within Burgess Hill itself, St. John's Park is the largest park, and the Burgess Hill Green Circle Network connects various local green spaces.
Spring and summer are particularly vibrant for outdoor attractions. Bedelands Farm Local Nature Reserve is known for abundant wildflowers during these seasons. Ditchling Common Country Park is beautiful in spring when bluebells bloom. However, many trails and viewpoints, like Ditchling Beacon and Devil's Dyke, offer stunning views year-round, though clear days are recommended.
Many of the outdoor areas around Burgess Hill are popular with dog walkers. Ardingly Reservoir is noted as having many dog walkers. Ditchling Common Country Park is also a popular spot for dogs. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock.
Burgess Hill has a local history museum run by the Burgess Hill Heritage & History Association, showcasing artifacts and the town's past. The Martlets Shopping Centre hosts seasonal fairs and local markets, fostering community connection. For sports enthusiasts, the More Than Tyres Stadium is the home ground of Burgess Hill Town FC.
The Mill Pond Waterfall at Valebridge is described as a serene and often quiet area, offering peace and scenic views, accessible via a walk through fields north from Wivelsfield station. While not exactly hidden, the historic farmhouses like Grove Farm House and Hammonds Place offer a glimpse into the area's Tudor past, though many are private residences.
Burgess Hill offers various cycling opportunities, from leisurely rides to more challenging routes. The Burgess Hill Green Circle Network is suitable for both walking and cycling. For dedicated cycling routes, you can explore options in the Cycling around Burgess Hill guide, which includes routes like 'The Shepherd & Dog Pub – Edburton Road loop'.


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