Brightling

Brightling combines the protected landscape of the High Weald National Landscape with an unusually striking collection of historic buildings and lively village traditions. Those looking for holiday accommodation in Brightling can therefore tailor their stay to suit different interests: walks through the countryside, cultural and historical discoveries, a cycling route or a traditional summer event each give the village its own distinctive character.

Landscape and remarkable buildings

One of the most notable sights is The Temple in Brightling Park. The rotunda dates from the early 19th century, is a Grade II* listed building and was designed by Sir Robert Smirke. The church of St Thomas a Becket also has a long history: it is mentioned in the Domesday Book. Brightling therefore offers not only scenic impressions but also points of interest for travellers interested in architecture and the older history of a place.

Another striking building is The Pyramid. It was built in 1811 from Sussex sandstone with clay and lime mortar and is also a Grade II* listed building. Its dimensions are unusually precise: The Pyramid is 25 feet wide, 25 feet deep and 25 feet high. This feature can be combined with the walking trail that starts there. The Pyramid is the starting point for a roughly seven-mile route along public footpaths through protected countryside around the follies of Brightling. You should take the distance into account when planning your day.

Traditions and activities for planning your trip

Brightling's annual flower show represents a quintessentially English summer tradition that has existed for more than 100 years. It takes place on a Saturday at the end of July from 1:30 p.m. at Tower Field at the upper end of Rectory Hill. The programme includes competitions for flowers, plants, vegetables, baked goods, preserves and handicrafts. This makes the event particularly interesting for families who want to experience local traditions not merely as a tourist attraction but as part of village life.

Active days can also be enjoyed in and around Brightling. The 65-foot obelisk associated with Brightling can be seen on the Cuckoo Trail & High Weald circular cycling route. Those who would rather attend a special event can find the International Horse Trials, held annually in the Brightling area. Both suggestions offer different possibilities for planning a trip without restricting the stay to just one type of outing.

Choose the right accommodation for your interests

When choosing a holiday apartment or holiday house in Brightling, it is worth first deciding on your preferred focus. If historic buildings and village traditions are the main priorities, The Temple, The Pyramid, the church of St Thomas a Becket and the flower show can serve as the key highlights. For more active trip planning, the roughly seven-mile walking trail or the Cuckoo Trail & High Weald circular cycling route can provide useful guidance.

More destinations for your reference

For further trip planning, you can also visit the pages for Nutley, Hastings, Winchelsea, Saint Leonards-On-Sea, Ninfield, Etchingham, Chelwood Gate and Beckley.

For the overview of the wider area: East Sussex.