Hassocks and Hurstpierpoint

Hassocks is a compact commuter village at the foot of the South Downs, sitting on the Brighton–London corridor between Brighton and Haywards Heath. It grew up in the 19th century with the coming of the railway and still centres on its station and a parade of shops, while offering easy access to chalk downland walks, local cycle routes and a mix of independent cafés, pubs and community groups.

Hurstpierpoint, a short drive or walk north-west of Hassocks, feels more traditionally historic, with a picturesque high street, a medieval parish church and several large houses such as Danny House, alongside the well-known independent Hurstpierpoint College. Like its neighbour, the village combines a strong local identity and social life with ready commuting links to Gatwick and London, and offers easy access to the surrounding Sussex countryside.