Hailsham

One of four main towns in the Wealden district of East Sussex. Although now mainly a commuter town, Hailsham was originally an agricultural centre. Population today is over 20,000.

The numbers of livestock in Hailsham together with the number of local oak trees, tannin from the bark being used in the process, provided tanners and leather workers with a great deal of wealth. The population increased to around 300 by the mid 1600's but increased even more significantly by the 1890's. This was mostly due to the manufacture of rope which was started by Thomas Burfield in 1780. The term rope-walk comes from the spinning process used in rope manufacture, whereby spinners would walk down a straight path letting out hemp, which was spun by wheel boys turning a wheel. A wide range of rope related goods were manufactured in Hailsham including hop pockets for the brewing industry, cloths, twine, mill sails and whip cord, as well as ropes for the navy.

Knockhatch Adventure Park is set in 80 acres of beautiful Sussex countryside and offers a wide range of outdoor and indoor activities including a large adventure playground, a reptile house, go-karting, laser games and an indoor soft play area. Recently added attractions are the Bungee Trampolines, the exciting Demon Drop Slide and the Tractor Rides which provide a great way to see all the many different animals around the park, from deer to llamas. Taking it easy in a family rowing boat on the three acre lake is one of the more leisurely activities. Another popular attraction is the children’s farm, and also the Birds of Prey Centre which offers the exciting chance to marvel at these impressive creatures either up close or in their daily flying displays. There is a burger bar and tea-rooms offering jacket potato meals on site.

Arlington Stadium in Hailsham features a quarter mile raceway offering short circuit motor racing at its best. From Spedeworth International, the mind-bending speed of the hot rods and stock cars to the hilarious antics and crash’er'ama of the bangers provides great family entertainment. The stadium is situated in lovely open countryside along with excellent catering and licensed bar facilities. The season runs from Easter to September.

The Cuckoo Trail is a nationally acclaimed route through the Wealden countryside. It follows the route of the former railroad line linking Polegate, Hailsham, Horam and Heathfield. Ideal for walking, cycling, horse riding and people with disabilities. This 13 mile surfaced path through the Sussex countryside is mostly traffic free and a safe route for walkers and cyclists of all ages, with bridle sections of the Cuckoo Trail accessible for horse-riders. There are a number of benches and picnic tables en route providing visitors with places to rest.

Hailsham has a wide range of shops and is the centre for many of the surrounding villages. The High Street is the main shopping area with the precincts of Vicarage Field, and Quintins providing additional shops attached to the High Street.