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
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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.