In and around Alfriston
Alfriston is an ideal location for walkers, cyclists and all those who would like to explore the beauty of the South Downs and the coastal attractions of East Sussex. The South Downs Way passes through the village and many would say that the “Jewel in the Crown” of this 100 mile long distance route across the Downs is the stretch from Alfriston to Eastbourne.
The village itself is full of character and charm, with interesting views round every corner. Right next to the parish church (St. Andrew’s: known as the “Cathedral of the Downs”) is Alfriston Clergy House, the very first building to be purchased by the National Trust.
Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings are all within a 40-minute drive from Alfriston. London is just over an hour away by train and our closest station is 10 minutes’ drive from the house.
The village is an ideal base for day trips within the local area and beyond and there is a wide variety of attractions to satisfy every taste. Beautiful gardens and parklands can be found at Wakehurst Place, Sheffield Park and Leonard’s Lee.
Historic sites include Charleston Farmhouse (the famous weekend retreat for members of the Bloomsbury Group), Firle Place, Michelham Priory, the Long Man of Wilmington, Batemans (the home of Rudyard Kipling); Chartwell (Winston Churchill’s country estate) and Brighton Pavilion. The castles of Bodiam, Pevensey, Herstmonceux and Lewes are also easily accessible, as is Battle Abbey, the site of the Norman Conquest.
For those with children, Drusillas Zoo and Adventure Playground, and a range of attractions at Middle Farm, are less than 5 miles away. The Bluebell Railway and the Lavender Line both offer trips on steam trains and, at the seaside resort of Hastings, there is a Sea Life Centre, and mysterious caves where smugglers used to hide!
More specialist interests can also be catered for: opera lovers will enjoy the Summer and Autumn seasons at the world famous Glyndebourne Opera House and, for those with equine tastes, Hickstead Showground and the racecourses at Plumpton and Brighton are nearby.
This is only the tip of the iceberg. Just ask if you want more information about these, and the many other attractions and events which take place in and around Alfriston. We will be pleased to help you organise your trip to get the most out of your holiday in Sussex.
Useful Links
- South Downs Way
- Cycling
- The Village
- Glyndebourne Opera House