Explore Heathfield: A Bustling Market Town in East Sussex
Lying on the edge of the High Weald, the bustling East Sussex town of Heathfield is located between Eastbourne and Tunbridge Wells, close to the River Cuckmere’s source. It’s a cracking little place, rural but with easy transport connections to London, great schools and a nice community spirit – this market town is rapidly becoming a housing hotspot, with some great property bargains to be had.

The History of Heathfield: From Market Town Origins to Modern Charm
Heathfield first gained its market charter in 1316 when Edward II was king. After that, the town really started to take off, although there’s evidence of a Stone Age settlement nearby. Rebel Jack Cade, who whipped up protest against Henry VI, was murdered here in 1450. The 1880 arrival of the railway gave the area a fresh lease of life.
The Dacre family created the private estate of Bayley Park here in 1610, while its Grade II-listed mansion was first built by James Plummer in 1676. In 1791, Francis Newberry changed its name to Heathfield Park and built its Grade II-listed Gibraltar Tower.
At nearby Burwash is Rudyard Kipling’s final family home, now a National Trust property, while fourteenth-century Bodiam Castle is a short drive away.
Heathfield Local Amenities: Schools, Markets, and Community Favourites
There’s a popular local market, well regarded primary and secondary schools and a farmers’ market every fortnight. You’ll also find a decent range of shops along the High Street, Station Road and Station Approach, including supermarkets, banks, cafes and restaurants. A branch library, doctors’ surgeries and post office are also all here, alongside pubs like the Half Moon and the fourteenth-century Star Inn, slightly away from the town centre.


Free Time in Heathfield: Outdoor Adventures, Events, and Local Culture
You’re unlikely to be bored here. Heathfield makes an ideal base for keen hikers, given its proximity to Ashdown Forest. The former railway line today forms the Cuckoo Trail ramble to Polegate. The area is rich in history, with so much surrounding countryside to explore, while Brighton is just under an hour away. Meanwhile the Heffle Cuckoo Fair, held since 1315, takes place each April, attracting visitors from across the south-east. It features everything from Morris dancing to vintage cars.
Other popular events include the Heathfield and District Agricultural Show and ‘Le Marché’, with French and English market traders.
Finally, clubs and societies in the town include a cricket team, badminton and bridge clubs, a choir and drama club, among other activities.
Heathfield Transport Links: Convenient Access to London and Surrounding Areas
Although the rail station closed in 1965, there are trains from nearby Buxted to London Victoria and Uckfield. Stonegate has services to Hastings, London Charing Cross and Tunbridge Wells. Buses connect Uckfield and Haywards Heath, Eastbourne and Tunbridge Wells. Main roads serving the town are the A267 and A265.

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A selection of our most recent properties for sale in Heathfield
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Wayside Walk, Heathfield TN21 0XW
For Sale5 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms3 Receptions£800,000Situated within a quiet and private cul-de-sac on the periphery of Heathfield, this substantial detached five-bedroom home offers plenty to the modern family. Enjoy the ease of a short stroll to the bustling High Street with its array of shops and amenities, while retreating to the privacy of your o... -
Horebeech Lane, Horam, TN21 0HR
For Sale4 Bedrooms3 Bathrooms2 Receptions£675,000Nestled in the desirable Horebeech Lane of Horam, this beautiful, detached family house offers a perfect blend of comfort and style. Built in the late 90s by a respected local builder, this property boasts two reception rooms, four bedrooms - two of which benefit from their own en-suite and a family... -
Rother View, Burwash, TN19 7BN
For Sale2 Bedrooms1 Bathroom1 Reception£520,000Situated in the heart of the sought-after village of Burwash, and just a stone's throw from the historic Bateman's, former home of Rudyard Kipling, this delightful two-bedroom bungalow offers a peaceful and idyllic home. Step inside and be greeted by a bright and spacious living area, measuring an i...
A selection of our most recent properties to let in Heathfield
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Moat Lane, Waldron
Let Agreed3 Bedrooms1 Bathroom1 Reception£1,350 pcmThis beautifully presented home is set in an idyllic position and has far reaching views of the countryside. The entrance porch leads into a large sitting room which has wooden flooring throughout and a fireplace with log burning stove. The kitchen is double aspect and has a good range of units and ...
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