insideSUSSEX Magazine Issue 23 - January 2017 | Page 32

TOWNSPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHT ON HAILSHAM cont. TOP SPOT DID YOU KNOW? Hailsham Pavilion is a cinema, live music venue and theatre that has been refurbished to look elegant and opulent. Despite its ‘golden age’ look, the venue is packed full of state-of-the-art equipment, making every outing here a vibrant experience. Hailsham’s rope making industry was started in 1807 by Thomas Burfield. Eerily, the ropemakers of Hailsham were famous for making ropes used by hangmen. THINGS TO DO Knockhatch Adventure Park If you’re looking for a fun family day out, Knockhatch Adventure Park is the place to go. There is a petting farm, an owl sanctuary, a massive soft play centre, loads of outdoor adventure playgrounds, picnic areas and a boating lake. Every time you visit there will be something new to see; attractions are being added all the time. Knockhatch is a boredom-busting day out. Herstmonceux Castle Herstmonceux Castle has over 300 acres of formal themed gardens, grounds and woodland to explore, all with the stunning 15th-century moated castle in the midst of it. The castle itself is one of the earliest examples of a brick-built building in England, and it is well worth a visit to admire the sheer architectural effort that must have gone into building such an imposing structure. With a tea room, a visitor centre and lots of events put on throughout the year, it’s a must. The Observatory Science Centre Found within the Herstmonceux Castle estate, the Observatory Science Centre is operated by Science Projects Ltd, a charity that focuses on promoting science for everyone. The Observatory Science Centre is an interactive, completely hands-on experience where both adults and children can learn about our amazing universe. DINING OUT Bebbles Langos Hungarian food with a British twist, Bebbles Langos could well be a one off. Langos are traditional Hungarian flatbreads filled with delicious ingredients and you can choose to make your own with different combinations of fillings. Eat in and relish your food in the restaurant, or take your food home and feast with friends and family. Fillings include goat cheese, frankfurters, cucumber, olives, bacon, chicken and ham. You can even order Hungarian goulash if the mood strikes! The Cottage Restaurant This small, independent restaurant nestles in the heart of Hailsham. Every dish is prepared by experts in the kitchen, and wherever possible the produce is locally sourced. The menu includes dishes such as avocado and smoked salmon; a variety of excellent pizzas; cannelloni ricotta spinaci – cannelloni tubes filled with ricotta and 32 spinach; risotto with smoked salmon, prawns, mixed peppers, peas and mussels; and chicken pepe verde, chicken breast cooked in cream sauce with fresh green peppercorns, a hint of Dijon mustard, white wine and brandy sauce. The Plough Inn The Plough Inn is a lovely 17th-century pub with a great atmosphere and fantastic food. You can order real ales here including Spitfire and Harveys Best, and during the winter months there are well-stocked log fires to snuggle up beside. Food includes salt and pepper squid, confit cherry tomatoes and a dressed rocket salad; pan-seared fillet of salmon with lobster, pea and parmesan risotto; pork and leek sausages with creamy mash, caramelised onion purée and red wine jus; and the chef’s Bakewell tart served with custard. Callenders This modern bistro serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with aplomb. It’s informal and relaxed, and ideal for a night out with friends. You can choose from dishes such as filo-wrapped king prawns, roast duck breast, minted lamb shank with a garlic and rosemary mash, and raspberry crème brulee. UPCOMING ANNUAL EVENTS Chiddfest // Jul Chiddfest is a jazz, blues, rock and beer festival, so there’s something to amuse everyone. Held each summer, you will be able to enjoy loads of music, two stages, the International Battle of the Bands, face painting, side stalls, hog roast (and plenty of other food), camping, ‘posh loos’, and a busker booth. Hailsham Festival of Arts & Culture // Sep This festival encompasses all art forms including literature, music, performance and the visual arts. It’s a chance for everyone to come together to explore what Hailsham – and further afield – has in terms of artistic enterprise and excitement. There is an art trail to follow, as well as workshops and displays. Hailsham Carol Concert // Dec With mulled wine and mince pies in the interval, this carol concert heralds the start of Christmas for Hailsham locals. There is a different theme each year, which the carols reflect and the funds from sold tickets go to a local charity.