Mayfield · TN20 6JS
Explore the Local Area
The Retreat is perfectly placed in the heart of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just outside the village of Mayfield in East Sussex. Whether you're looking for historic castles, award-winning restaurants, scenic walks, or a day trip to the coast — everything is within easy reach.
Dining & Pubs
The Middle House
A stunning 16th-century timber-framed inn in the heart of Mayfield village, offering classic British cuisine and a warm, historic atmosphere.
The Rose & Crown
A traditional village pub in Mayfield serving hearty pub food, real ales, and a friendly welcome for locals and visitors alike.
Fletching Village Pub
Award-winning country pub with a beautiful garden, celebrated for its seasonal menu and exceptional wine list.
The Dorset Arms, Withyham
A charming country pub nestled in the Ashdown Forest, perfect for a post-walk meal with locally sourced ingredients.
Shopping & Markets
Mayfield Village Shops
A charming collection of independent boutiques, a bakery, and a post office in the picturesque High Street of Mayfield.
Tunbridge Wells
The Pantiles — a beautiful colonnaded shopping street — plus the Royal Victoria Place shopping centre, independent boutiques, and a vibrant café culture.
Heathfield Market
A traditional weekly market with local produce, antiques, and crafts in the nearby market town of Heathfield.
Uckfield
A bustling market town with supermarkets, high street shops, and a range of independent retailers.
Countryside & Walking
Ashdown Forest
The inspiration for A.A. Milne's Hundred Acre Wood — 6,500 acres of ancient heathland and woodland, perfect for walking, cycling, and spotting wildlife.
High Weald AONB
The Retreat sits within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty — some of England's most unspoilt countryside, with ancient lanes, orchards, and meadows on your doorstep.
Bewl Water Reservoir
The largest inland water in South East England — ideal for walking the 13-mile perimeter trail, cycling, sailing, and watersports.
Mayfield Circular Walk
A beautiful 6-mile circular walk from the village through the surrounding Wealden countryside, passing ancient farmsteads and hop gardens.
Attractions & Culture
Hever Castle
The childhood home of Anne Boleyn — a stunning 13th-century moated castle with award-winning gardens, a lake, and fascinating Tudor history.
Penshurst Place
One of England's finest medieval manor houses, set in 11 acres of formal gardens. A magnificent example of 14th-century architecture.
Sheffield Park & Garden
A spectacular National Trust garden with four lakes and stunning planting, particularly beautiful in autumn. Adjacent to the Bluebell Railway.
Bluebell Railway
A preserved steam railway running through the Sussex Weald — a wonderful family day out with vintage locomotives and beautiful countryside views.
Bateman's (Rudyard Kipling's Home)
The National Trust home of Rudyard Kipling, author of The Jungle Book. A beautiful Jacobean house with a lovely garden and mill.
Wellness & Leisure
Spa at Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells
A luxurious spa set in a Victorian hotel with indoor pool, thermal suite, and a full range of treatments — perfect for a day of indulgence.
Crowborough Golf Club
A beautiful heathland golf course on the edge of Ashdown Forest, offering challenging play with stunning views across the Weald.
Bewl Water Watersports
Sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, and paddleboarding on the largest reservoir in South East England.
Getting Around
Wadhurst Station
Direct trains to London Charing Cross and London Bridge in approximately 55 minutes. The nearest mainline station to The Retreat.
Tunbridge Wells Station
Frequent direct services to London Bridge (50 min) and London Charing Cross. Good connections to the wider South East.
Gatwick Airport
London Gatwick Airport is easily accessible by car via the A22 and M23, or by train via Tunbridge Wells.
Find Us
Getting to The Retreat
The Retreat is located in Mayfield, East Sussex, TN20 6JS. We're easily accessible by car from London (1.5 hrs), and the nearest train station is Wadhurst — just 4 miles away with direct services to London in under an hour.