Is Haywards Heath A Nice Place To Live

Haywards Heath: The Jewel of Mid Sussex

Ever found yourself daydreaming about trading city chaos for a slice of countryside charm? Well, let me introduce you to Haywards Heath, a delightful town nestled in the heart of Mid Sussex. It's like the cool, understated friend in a group of show-offs, quietly offering a lifestyle that's hard to resist.

Green Spaces Galore

Let's start with the obvious - Haywards Heath is green. Like, really green. With over 200 acres of parkland, including the beautiful Beech Hurst Gardens, it's a nature lover's dream. Imagine strolling along the picturesque River Ouse, or picnicking in the sun-dappled Victoria Park. It's like living in a perpetual Instagram filter.

But it's not just about the big parks. Haywards Heath is peppered with secret gardens and quaint squares. There's the charming St. Pancras Churchyard, a hidden gem where you can enjoy a quiet moment amidst the headstones. Or, for a touch of the exotic, check out the Japanese-style garden at Borde Hill, a historic house just on the outskirts of town.

Cultural Hotspot

Now, don't go thinking Haywards Heath is all countryside and no culture. This town punches above its weight when it comes to arts and entertainment. The Hawth Theatre hosts a varied program of shows, from West End musicals to stand-up comedy. And if you're a film buff, the independent Duke of York's Picturehouse in nearby Brighton is a must-visit.

Art lovers, meanwhile, can indulge in the town's annual Arts Trail, where local artists open their studios to the public. It's like a real-life treasure hunt, with the added bonus of supporting local talent.

Foodie Heaven

Haywards Heath might be small, but it's big on flavor. The town center is a foodie's paradise, with a diverse range of eateries to suit every taste. From the award-winning Indian cuisine at The Raj to the mouthwatering burgers at The Flaming Grill, your taste buds are in for a treat.

And if you're a fan of markets, you'll love the weekly farmers' market. It's a riot of color and scent, with local producers peddling everything from fresh veg to artisanal cheeses. It's the perfect place to pick up some ingredients for a lazy Sunday lunch.

Practical Matters

But enough about the fun stuff - let's talk practicalities. Haywards Heath is well-connected by road and rail, with easy access to London and the coast. It's also home to some excellent schools, including the prestigious Ardingly College.

In photos: this six-bedroom detached home in Haywards Heath has an

In terms of property, you'll find a mix of period properties and modern developments. Prices are slightly higher than the national average, but you're paying for that coveted countryside lifestyle.

Fun Facts

Did you know that Haywards Heath was once home to the world's first ever public house? The White Hart Inn, built in 1720, still stands today, serving pints to thirsty locals. Or how about this - the town's name is thought to have come from the Old English 'heath', meaning open country, and 'Hayward', a guardian of the heath.

And if you're a history buff, you might be interested to know that Haywards Heath played a role in the English Civil War. The town was briefly occupied by Royalist forces in 1647. But don't worry, these days the only battles being fought are over who makes the best Sunday roast.

So, Is Haywards Heath a Nice Place to Live?

Well, that depends on what you're looking for. If you're after a vibrant city lifestyle, you might find Haywards Heath a little too quiet. But if you're craving a slower pace of life, surrounded by beauty and brimming with character, then this could be the place for you.

At the end of the day, Haywards Heath is like a good book - it might not be everyone's cup of tea, but once you've started reading, you can't put it down. So, why not give it a try? You never know, you might just find your new favorite chapter.