Wadhurst and the High Weald: Sussex's Prettiest Corner

The small Sussex town of Wadhurst has been named one of the best places to live in Britain – praised for having almost everything you need in miniature. It sits in the High Weald, a protected landscape of rolling hills, woods and villages, which also makes it a lovely base for a countryside break.

1. Wadhurst

A friendly high street of independent shops, cafés and pubs, a historic church and walks into the surrounding countryside.

2. Bewl Water

The largest stretch of open water in the south-east, with a waterside trail for walking and cycling, and water sports.

3. Bateman's

Rudyard Kipling's 17th-century home near Burwash, now cared for by the National Trust, with gardens and a working watermill.

4. Bodiam Castle

A moated 14th-century castle that looks straight out of a storybook.

5. Scotney Castle

A romantic ruined castle on an island in a lake, surrounded by beautiful gardens, across the border in Kent.

6. Village pubs and vineyards

The High Weald is dotted with historic pubs and a growing number of vineyards producing English sparkling wine.

7. Royal Tunbridge Wells

The nearby spa town has the elegant colonnaded Pantiles, independent shops and restaurants.

Getting there

Trains from London reach Wadhurst and other High Weald towns in around an hour. A car helps for exploring the villages and countryside.