NEAR HAYWARDS HEATH

ARDINGLY RESERVOIR - This reservoir, 78 hectares of dammed water in a picturesque natural valley, is situated between Haywards Heath and the village of Ardingly. It provides recreation facilities for sailing, fishing, bird watching, with walks, bridleways and picnic areas. Paying car park in operation.

BLUEBELL RAILWAY - This is the country’s oldest preserved steam line, first established in 1959. Its nine mile track runs between Sheffield Park, Horsted Keynes and Kingscote. Work continues to extend the line right into East Grinstead. Ultimately it is hoped that it will be extended in the other direction to link up to Haywards Heath.

Many family events take place throughout the year, including a Thomas the Tank Engine weekend and special Father Christmas rides during December.

BORDE HILL GARDEN - This is a great Sussex Garden, where facilities have been improved over the years. It was originally created at the turn of the 19th Century and is set in 200 acres of spectacular Sussex parkland and woods. It has many rare and exotic shrubs and trees from East Asia, Tasmania and the Andes, providing a rich variety of colours throughout the year. The garden also contains award winning collection of rhododendrons, magnolias and camellias and rose garden. Special events are held at the appropriate time of year when the various blooms are at their best. A Sculpture Exhibition is also held annually. There is also a fishing lake for a small fee. Cross-Country riding events are another feature of Borde Hill. The Restaurant, public bar and gardens are open all year round. For further details ring 01444 44027

WAKEHURST PLACE - Wakehurst is known as Kew in the Country being part of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. It is a large garden made up of natural landscape of woodlands, rocky valleys, streams and lakes. It is also home to the now famous Millennium Seed Bank. In 2002 a new Visitors Centre was opened. Wakehurst Place is situated on the far side of Ardingly village just past the South of England Showground.

OTHER GARDENS TO VISIT NEAR TO HAYWARDS HEATH
NYMANS at Handcross
THE HIGH BEECHES Near Handcross
LEONARDSLEE at Lower Beeding

Leaflets with details of all areas of interest, places to visit and day outings can be obtained from Haywards Heath Town Council at the Town Hall in Boltro Road.