Locals Invited to Enjoy Hailsham Country Park During the Winter Months

Do you enjoy the outside life? The Town Council has launched another campaign to encourage residents to visit Hailsham Country Park and enjoy the beauty of the winter season.

The Council–maintained Country Park, situated off Gleneagles Drive, covers approximately 22 acres and incorporates woodland, a recreational grass area, two ponds and a lake. A water course skirts the open field area and all–weather footpaths can be found throughout the park to encourage people of all ages to enjoy this precious open space area.

Features of Hailsham Country Park

• Fishing: The Hailsham Country Park Lake (off Gleneagles Drive) and Hempstead Pond (adjacent to Tilehurst Wood) are both stocked with a variety of fish, including carp, bream, roach, rudd, tench, perch and pike. The Southdown & Hydneye Community Angling Club (SHCAC) manages the lease of the lake and pond and there isn’t currently a closed season, although if there are signs of spawning, the lake and pond may be temporarily closed.

• Woodland Areas: The park’s woodlands feature a rich selection of tree species, such as birch, oak, ash, maple and wild cherry, with abundant wildlife including voles, mice, lizards and weasels.

• Access and Parking: The park is easily accessible via two free car parks, located off Holyhead Close and Gleneagles Drive. Ample directional signage is posted throughout the park to guide visitors.

“Offering a peaceful and relaxing environment and with so much to offer, the Country Park is an ideal place to get away from it all,” said Cllr Mary Laxton, Chair of the Assets Management Committee.“Residents and visitors can do a spot of fishing at the Gleneagles lake during the angling season, jog, cycle, spot wildlife, exercise their dog or encourage their children to let off steam using the open space to have a run around.“

Recent and Ongoing Improvements

In recent years, the Town Council has made several notable improvements to the park, including:

• A new path around Wentworth Pond
• Resurfaced pathways around the lake to support visitors with mobility needs
• New tree planting as part of long‑term environmental goals, including flowering cherries, rowans, gingko and liquidambars
• Tree thinning at Wentworth Wood to improve natural ground cover and habitat
• Essential fence repairs to maintain safety and protect the park’s boundaries

These upgrades reflect the Council’s dedication to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.

A Well-Maintained, Safe Public Space

The park’s high level of maintenance by the Town Council’s works staff ensures that the area remains a clean, safe and enjoyable space for all. Regular checks, upkeep and repairs are carried out to preserve the park’s natural beauty and ensure it is a place people can trust for relaxation and recreation.

Cllr Laxton added: “We maintain several acres of public space across Hailsham, which includes everything from formal parks and recreation grounds to areas of grass, ponds and lakes. It’s our priority to provide the community with a clean and safe environment to enjoy, and we are pleased to have carried out further improvements and continuing to provide a safe and accessible space for everyone to enjoy.”

“During the winter months, Hailsham Country Park offers a unique and tranquil experience – and the striking seasonal scenery makes it an ideal place for reflective walks and revitalising outdoor activity. With well-maintained all-weather paths, visitors can enjoy the restorative benefits of spending time in nature throughout the colder season.”