Discover Uckfield: A Thriving Market Town in East Sussex

The Rich History of Uckfield: From Medieval Chapel to Modern Market Town

Uckfield’s first historical mention is in the late 1200s; a medieval chapel was built here in 1291, which was later replaced by the Holy Cross parish church in 1839. However, evidence has been found of human occupation here as early as the Stone Age. The town also became a stop-off point on the pilgrimage between Canterbury, Chichester and Lewes, while also being a central staging post on many trade routes. Its oldest house to remain standing, Bridge Cottage, dates from the fifteenth century. (These days, it’s a museum.)

Uckfield essentially developed in its High Street and the New Town area just to the south of the original town centre. Church Street has a number of post-medieval buildings, including the Old Grammar School, Bakers Cottage and the Malt House.

Free Time in Uckfield: Nature Reserves, Markets, and Festivals

Uckfield lies on the southern limits of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), near the Ashdown Forest, while the River Uck winds through the lower areas of the town. It’s also worth checking out West Park and Hempstead Meadows nature reserves, as well as Harlands Pond and Nightingale Wood if you’re exploring locally.

There’s a Farmers’ Market on the first Saturday of each month, which is the biggest of its kind in the county. Then there’s the local festival, held over a number of weeks each summer.

So with so much on the doorstep, you shouldn’t be short of things to do.

 Whats nearby