On the western edge of the Weald and less than 40 miles south of London, is the vibrant town of Uckfield. Its rural location is handy for exploring the pretty towns and villages in the Sussex countryside as well as day trips to the South Downs and coast.

In years gone past it was the resting place for pilgrims en route to Canterbury, Chichester and Lewes, in the late thirteenth century. Pudding Cake Lane in Uckfield is so named as it was a place where pilgrims would stop at an inn for slices of pudding cake and the oldest standing house in Uckfield, the 15th century Bridge Cottage, now houses a museum detailing the settlement’s growth.

Unknown to many, Uckfield is home to an historical cinema; the Picture House cinema was established in 1915 and is still open today for those seeking adventure on the big screen. The movies are not the only way you will find a mystery to solve in Uckfield, as the town plays host to many a myth and mystery play.

For trivia lovers Uckfield was the last place that Lord Lucan was seen before his mysterious disappearance, and the fossilised remains that turned out to be the hoax of the Piltdown Man were presented in the area. To complete the trio there is a spooky barren woodland nearby that is said to be the home of Nan Tuck’s Ghost, the ghost of a witch said to chase away visitors (let’s hope not!).

Much more tangible is the beautiful countryside that surrounds Uckfield. West Parks, Hempstead Meadows and Harland’s Pond are just some of the local nature reserves that are home to unusual flora and fauna, wetlands and the remains of Mesolithic settlements.

Whether you are looking for history, mystery or the beauty of Mother Nature, then Uckfield could be the perfect place for your break, so search for cottages in Uckfield and start planning your getaway today.