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Bolney Wine Estate

Places to Visit After Your English Wine & Vineyard Tour

 

Our vineyard at Bolney Wine Estate has visitors from all over the world, and they are often attracted to Sussex, not just due to our fabulous wine, but also the fascinating history and beautiful scenery. If you are looking for places to explore after, or before a tour of our vineyard, why not try Cuckfield.

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Cuckfield in West Sussex is a Delightful Place to Visit

The charming village of Cuckfield perfectly complements an English wine tour at Bolney Wine Estate. This guide will take you through the best places to visit, eat, and stay in Cuckfield, ensuring a memorable day trip in West Sussex. Book your place on one of our vineyard tours first for an immersive wine tasting experience.

 

Cuckfield is a picturesque village located in the heart of West Sussex, just a short 15-minute drive from Bolney Wine Estate, with roots dating back to the medieval period. Mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, the village likely derives its name from ‘Cucanfeld’ meaning ‘open land of a man called Cucca’.

 

Granted a market charter in the 13th century, Cuckfield thrived as a local trading centre on the London to Brighton coaching route. Notable landmarks include the Holy Trinity Church from the early 13th century and the 16th-century Cuckfield Park manor house. Despite modern developments, Cuckfield retains its traditional charm, offering visitors a picturesque setting rich in history. It’s also an excellent destination for those exploring Sussex wine country.

Things to Do in Cuckfield

Once you’ve enjoyed what Bolney Wine Estate has to offer, continue your day trip to nearby Cuckfield. Much like our beautiful Sussex vineyard, there’s a lot of beautiful countryside to see in this area and plenty to do, too.

 

Cuckfield Museum

Location: Queen’s Hall, High St, Cuckfield RH17 5EL
From Bolney Wine Estate: 4.2 miles, 9 min drive

 

Cuckfield Museum offers a fascinating insight into the local history of Cuckfield and the surrounding areas. The museum showcases a variety of exhibits, including artefacts from prehistoric times to the modern era. Visitors can explore displays on local industries, notable residents, and the rich cultural heritage of the region. The museum also hosts special exhibitions and events throughout the year, making it a captivating stop for history enthusiasts and curious travellers alike.

 
Image Credit: Cuckfield Museum

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Holy Trinity Church

Location: Church St, Cuckfield, Haywards Heath RH17 5JZ
From Bolney Wine Estate: 4.1 miles, 9 min drive

 

Holy Trinity Church is a beautiful example of Victorian Gothic architecture, built in the mid-19th century. The church is known for its stunning stained glass windows and intricate stonework. Visitors can enjoy the historic atmosphere, explore the ancient graveyard, and learn about the church’s history through informative displays and guided tours. The church often hosts community events and concerts, adding to its role as a focal point of local culture and heritage in Cuckfield.

 

Image Credit: Wikipedia

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Cuckfield Golf Centre

Location: Staplefield Rd, Cuckfield, Haywards Heath RH17 5HY
From Bolney Wine Estate: 5.4 miles, 10 min drive

 

Cuckfield Golf Centre offers a picturesque 9-hole golf course set in the scenic West Sussex countryside, ideal for both beginners and seasoned golfers. The course features 18 different tees, allowing for varied play. The centre is more than just a golf club, with excellent practice facilities, professional golf lessons, and a pro shop. After a round, golfers can relax at the 180 Degrees Bar & Kitchen, which boasts stunning views and a delightful menu. The club is known for its friendly atmosphere and community involvement, making it a welcoming place for all visitors.

 

Image Credit: Cuckfield Golf Centre

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Cuckfield Walks

Looking for things to do in the English countryside? Cuckfield is a great base for some beautiful rural walks in West Sussex.

 

Cuckfield Circular Walk
This 6 km walk is ideal for any time of the year. It starts from the centre of Cuckfield and takes you through diverse landscapes, including shaded woodlands and open parklands. The route, shaped like a square, offers relaxing paths and scenic views of Cuckfield Park and the South Downs. It’s a quiet walk where you can appreciate the changing seasons and maybe even visit our vineyard along the way.

 

Paige’s Wood and Cuckfield Circular
This 12.1 km trail is moderately challenging and perfect for those looking for a bit more adventure. Starting near Haywards Heath, it combines sections of woodland, fields, and small streams. The trail offers splendid bird watching opportunities and serene walking experiences. The paths are well-maintained, making it a pleasant hike with occasional glimpses of the South Downs and surrounding countryside​

 

Cuckfield and Ansty Circular
Spanning 6.4 miles (approximately 10.3 km), this moderately challenging walk begins at Holy Trinity Church in Cuckfield. The route takes you south to Ansty, offering a mix of forested areas, open fields, and village views. A notable feature is Brewhouse Pond, which provides a serene spot to rest. This trail is popular for hiking and running, with a variety of terrains to keep the walk interesting and engaging​.

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Cuckfield Restaurants and Pubs

Sussex is home to some excellent places to eat, like all the fine local produce you’ll get at a Bolney wine tasting. Here are some of our favourite restaurants and pubs in Cuckfield for after your visit to our Estate.

The Rose and Crown

Cuisine: British, seasonal
Location: London Rd, Cuckfield, Haywards Heath, RH17 5BS

 

Located in the heart of Cuckfield, The Rose and Crown is a delightful gastropub that offers a modern British menu with a variety of exciting bar snacks, sharers, and light bites. The pub prides itself on using local and seasonal ingredients, ensuring a fresh and vibrant dining experience. Guests can enjoy their meals in the newly refurbished restaurant, cosy bar, or the spacious beer garden.

 

Image Credit: Rose and Crown Cuckfield

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The Talbot

Cuisine: British pub classics
Location: Ockenden Lane, Cuckfield, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH17 5LD

 

Situated in the centre of Cuckfield, The Talbot is a traditional country pub known for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The pub offers a range of lunch, bar, and dinner menus, featuring classic pub favourites like burgers, fish and chips, and a selection of steaks sourced from a local butcher. The Talbot also boasts an extensive wine list, regional ales, and a variety of local spirits. It is dog and child-friendly, and even hosts the Cuckfield Food Market in its courtyard every Saturday. The Talbot’s charming setting and excellent food make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors​.

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180 Degrees Bar & Kitchen

Cuisine: Innovative British cuisine with local ingredients
Location: Staplefield Rd, Cuckfield, Haywards Heath, RH17 5HY

 

This modern establishment in Cuckfield offers a stylish and contemporary dining experience. 180 Degrees Bar & Kitchen is highly rated for its innovative menu that blends traditional and contemporary dishes. The restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious and visually appealing meals. With a welcoming ambiance and attentive service, it’s a great place for a casual lunch, an elegant dinner, or just a relaxed drink with friends. The bar also offers a wide selection of beverages, including craft beers, fine wines, and creative cocktails​.

 

Image Credit: 180 Degrees Bar & Kitchen

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Where to Stay in Cuckfield

With all the things to see and do, why not make a long weekend of it in the Sussex countryside? Check out these places to stay in and around Cuckfield.

The Wheatsheaf Inn

Location: Broad St, Cuckfield, Haywards Heath RH17 5DW

 

The Wheatsheaf Inn is a charming 19th-century establishment located on the edge of Cuckfield. This cosy Cuckfield pub offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with comfortable rooms and traditional pub fare. Guests can enjoy the rustic charm of the wood-panelled bar or relax in the garden area. The inn is conveniently located near the mainline station of Haywards Heath, providing easy access to London and surrounding attractions. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a friendly, laid-back place to stay with the added benefit of hearty, home-cooked meals​​.

 

Image Credit: The Wheatsheaf Inn Cuckfield

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The Ardingly Inn

Location: Street Ln, Ardingly, Haywards Heath RH17 6UA

 

Located in the nearby village of Ardingly, The Ardingly Inn is a charming and cosy option for visitors to Cuckfield. This traditional inn offers comfortable accommodations with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The inn features a lovely garden, a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine, and a bar where guests can unwind. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful retreat with easy access to nearby attractions such as Hever Castle and the South Downs.

 

Image Credit: The Ardingly Inn

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Reserve Your Place For a Bolney Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting

Experience the art of Sussex winemaking with our vineyard tours and wine tastings at Bolney Wine Estate. These tours provide an opportunity to uncover the hidden gems of Sussex wine, enjoy local delicacies paired with our award-winning English wines, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich heritage. Secure your spot early and prepare for a memorable adventure before exploring more places to visit in West Sussex like Cuckfield.

 

How to Get to Us

 

Bolney Wine Estate is conveniently located just an hour’s drive or train journey from London and close to the South Coast. You can reach us via the A23 and A272 from Crawley or Brighton. Follow the signs past Bolney Village to reach us on Foxhole Lane.

 

If you use what3words, ours are: ///tinted.etchings.puzzled or view our detailed directions.

 

 

Discover What’s On at the Estate

 

If you want to stay informed about things to do in Sussex, sign up to our newsletter. Plus, keep a lookout for seasonal events and activities at Bolney Wine Estate. Our event calendar is filled with exciting happenings that highlight our beautiful English vineyard. From vineyard tours and wine tastings to special chef dining experiences, there’s always something new to enjoy.

 

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