10 reasons to move to Haywards Heath

Above: Haywards Heath

Above: Haywards Heath

Above: Haywards Heath

Above: Refueling at the bluebell railway, ©Kate Eastman

Sussex Life, January 2007

BILLED as ‘the Heart of mid-Sussex’, Haywards Heath has plenty to offer anyone who is considering moving to this bustling town. This relatively modern development owes much to its superb train links. Until the late 19th century, the area was little more than a wasteland belonging to the Manor of Hayworth. However in 1841, the arrival of the London to Brighton Railway changed things considerably and these days, Haywards Heath boasts a population of more than 23,000 people.

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Step on a train in Haywards Heath and you could be right in the heart of London’s fast-moving capital within 45 minutes. Alternatively, for an away day in lively Brighton, wrap up warm and you could be strolling on the beach or along the pier in under 20 minutes.
Many residents regularly commute by train to London, Brighton, Crawley or Gatwick Airport. All good news, providing there are no leaves on the line! Road links are excellent too. The motorway network can be accessed via the A272 directly from Haywards Heath, and the A23 which joins the M23 at Crawley is nearby.

2. There are many good state and independent schools in and around the town, providing great opportunities for youngsters from primary to secondary level. The Reverend Ray Smith, rector at St Wilfrid’s Church, explains: “The schools in the area get a very good reputation and often jostle with each other for position in the league tables.”

3. Residents benefit from a low crime rate. Inspector Shane Lambert explains: “It’s a very affluent town – thoroughly nice and the people seem to have a lot of respect for each other.” Figures show that in Haywards Heath, the recorded levels of crime dropped overall by 2.5 per cent between April 1 and December 4, 2006 as compared to the same period in 2005. Burglary dropped by 9.7 per cent, violent crime was down 2.3 per cent and theft of a
vehicle or from a vehicle fell by 13.1 per cent.

4. The town is surrounded by glorious countryside, with the South Downs as a stunning backdrop. If you fancy a rural ramble then you only have to walk a couple of minutes from the town centreto get back to nature.

5. If you’re a National Trust member then keep your card handy since several fascinating NT properties are close by, including Kew’s ‘country garden’ Wakehurst Place and Nymans Garden which boasts an historic collection of plants, shrubs and trees. Other places of local interest include Borde Hill Garden, set in 200 acres of spectacular Sussex parkland and woods, and Ardingly Reservoir situated in a picturesque natural valley.

6. People flock from all over the country to visit The Bluebell Railway – the UK’s oldest preserved steam line, established in 1959. Many events occur throughout the year and The Golden Arrow Pullman dining train is the perfect setting to travel back in time and enjoy a special meal wih friends. Town mayor Richard Goddard says: “My wife Gilllian and I visit The Bluebell Railway at least once a year and reckon it’s just like being on The Orient Express. “When we’re on the train, I’m always amazed at how far other passengers have travelled to enjoy the yesteryear experience.”

Click HERE to read the full article in the Sussex Life digital archive

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