Henfield combines an open space on the edge of the village with walking paths, a long-distance trail and specific topics in architectural and local history. Henfield Common covers more than 19 hectares; other points of interest include the Downs Link, the parish church of St Peter, Henfield Museum and several heritage trails in the parish. This lets you tailor your stay to different interests, with landscapes and trails alongside architectural history and collections.
Henfield Common: Open Space and Habitats
Henfield Common is an open space covering more than 19 hectares on the edge of the village. It provides habitats for rare and sensitive wildlife; it also includes grassland and wetlands and is home to numerous native wildflowers. As well as open space, a variety of habitats and plants are among the natural features to explore. Henfield Common is registered as Common Land; the designation as a Local Wildlife Site applies to its northern part. The two designations therefore refer to different areas.
Walking Routes and the Downs Link
Several footpaths cross Henfield Common and offer short walks along its western edge. Other paths lead to Swains Farm and run parallel to Brighton Road from the High Street to the Cricket Club. If you are planning a short walk, the western edge is the specifically named point of reference. Swains Farm, the High Street and the Cricket Club are other landmarks along the routes described.
The Downs Link is a different kind of trail: a long-distance route for walkers, horse riders and cyclists that follows two disused railway lines. Between Henfield and Steyning, the route enters the floodplain of the River Adur. The short walks along the western edge of the Common are therefore distinct from a long-distance trail. You can first decide what kind of route you want to include in your stay, then choose the best focus.
Architectural and Local History
There are several heritage trails in the Parish of Henfield. They complement the landscape and walking routes with a cultural and historical perspective. The parish church of St Peter brings together several architectural periods: the chancel arch dates from around 1200, while the tower and Parham Chapel are associated with the 15th century. The nave, aisles, transepts and chancel were rebuilt in 1870. The church therefore offers specific points of interest for exploring an architectural history spanning several centuries.
Henfield Museum has a collection of more than 20,000 objects. Most are connected to Henfield and the surrounding parishes. The collection’s subject matter therefore extends beyond the village, while St Peter offers a closer look at the architectural history of a single church building. Heritage trails, architecture and the collection each provide a different focus for anyone interested in the history of Henfield and its surroundings.
Getting to Henfield Museum
Hassocks and Haywards Heath are the nearest railway stations to Henfield Museum. If you are planning your trip around a museum visit, check train times before setting out.
Discover more destinations: Hassocks, Rusper, Littlehampton, Petworth, Merston, Ardingly, Bognor Regis, Plaistow
Back to the regional travel guide: West Sussex.
