Uckfield in East Sussex is the perfect place for a family day out. It’s gorgeously leafy with plenty of countryside to explore, has a calm and peaceful pace, and is full of adventures that don’t involve queues, expensive tickets or stress.
Best of all, it’s easy to reach by train with Southern Railway. The direct journey from London Bridge to Uckfield takes around 1 hour 15 minutes, winding through beautiful countryside along the way. The train ride is just long enough for the kids to spot sheep from the window and for you to enjoy a coffee in peace. If you’re travelling to Uckfield from elsewhere in Sussex, or Surrey or Kent, the journey is even quicker.
Whether you’re visiting for the day, enjoying a weekend staycation, or simply looking for inspiration, here are some of the best things to do in Uckfield with kids.
Getting to Uckfield by train
Trains to Uckfield run regularly with Southern Railway, making it one of the easiest day trips from London or the South East. The line itself is part of the adventure as it snakes through woodland and open countryside, with glimpses of fields, farms and quaint villages along the way.
From London Bridge, it’s around 1 hour 15 minutes direct. From East Croydon, it’s just exactly an hour, and from Oxted, around 45 minutes. Uckfield station sits at the edge of town, with cafés, walks and family attractions all within easy reach.
If you’re travelling with kids, you can get cheap train tickets by making the most of Southern Railway’s Kids for £2 offer, and make sure you bring snacks for the journey as there’s something particularly lovely about a countryside train journey that makes it all part of the fun.
Why visit Uckfield with kids
Uckfield is a picturesque country escape, and that’s exactly why it works so well for families. It’s relaxed, welcoming, and refreshingly easy to explore without a car. You can step off the train, follow your senses, and fill a whole day with fresh air, fun and small moments that will create lasting memories.
From nature trails to steam trains, play centres to independent cafés, this is Sussex at its best. Simple pleasures, great scenery and no long drives required, just hop on a Southern train and let Uckfield do the rest.
Our pick of the best things to do in Uckfield with kids
Ride the Bluebell Railway
Few family outings top the charm of the Bluebell Railway, a heritage line that runs through 11 miles of glorious Sussex countryside. One of the best ways to plan your adventure is by getting the Southern Railway mainline to East Grinstead, and then hopping on the heritage line from there, it’s literally around the corner.
Once on board the vintage carriage, enjoy stunning views, friendly staff, and a memorable day out learning about the history of the railway and being immersed in an atmosphere that will make you feel like you’ve stepped aboard the Orient Express.
Then, when you arrive at Sheffield Park Station, it’s the perfect base to further explore attractions around Uckfield, like Sheffield Park and Garden.
Explore Sheffield Park and Garden
Next to the heritage station you’ll find Sheffield Park and Garden. It’s one of those valuable places where kids can run free and adults can unwind. Managed by the National Trust, it’s a mix of grand lawns, lakes and ancient trees that look straight out of a fairy tale.
Children will love feeding the ducks, rolling down hills, and exploring the bridges that criss-cross the water. There’s also plenty of wildlife to spot, from dragonflies to redwood trees that tower overhead. The café does a great hot chocolate for post-walk refuelling, and the circular walking route is buggy-friendly too.
Go wild at West Park Nature Reserve
A 15-minute walk from Uckfield railway station, West Park Local Nature Reserve is perfect for a relaxed family walk that feels spontaneous rather than scheduled. The woodland paths twist between trees and open meadows, giving kids plenty of space to run, balance on logs and play explorers.
It’s compact enough for little legs, yet full of small surprises like frogs in spring, butterflies in summer, and orange leaves in autumn. It’s completely free, so it’s ideal for a gentle break between bigger attractions.
Splash about at Uckfield Leisure Centre
When the English weather takes an unpredictable turn (as it often does), Uckfield Leisure Centre saves the day. The family swim sessions are relaxed and fun, with floats, music and inflatables that keep children busy while parents paddle or cheer from the side.
There’s a welcoming atmosphere and the staff are great with kids, especially during school holidays when they run special activity sessions. Book in advance if you’re coming during peak times, and don’t forget goggles for the little ones. The leisure centre is an easy 15-minute walk from Uckfield railway station, making it an easy option after your train journey.
Let loose at Barney’s Play
If your children are still buzzing with energy after countryside walks and a ride on heritage railway, Barney’s Play is your answer. This bright, modern soft-play centre has everything from slides and ball pits to mini shops where kids can dress up and play make-believe.
Parents are well looked after too: the café serves proper coffee and homemade cake, and there’s enough seating to keep an eye on the kids without hovering awkwardly. It’s clean, well-run, and ideal for toddlers through to early primary-age children. You’ll find it just off the high street, a short walk from Uckfield station.
Discover the magic of Lake Wood
For a proper adventure, Lake Wood is a real gem. Just a 10-minute walk from the station, it feels like stepping into a secret world of mossy trees, sandstone cliffs and a waterfall hidden at the far side of the lake.
The trail loops around the water and is easy enough for children to handle, with plenty of logs to climb, ducks to spot, and photo-worthy views along the way. Bring boots if it’s been raining as it can be wonderfully muddy in places.
Explore Uckfield High Street
Make sure you don’t miss a wander through Uckfield High Street, which is full of boutique, independent shops and restaurants that welcome families. There’s Hartfields for brunch, Olive & Vine to satisfy Mediterranean cravings, and a few novelty shops where kids can spend their pocket money, including toy and book stores that feel charmingly retro.
On Saturdays, the local market brings extra buzz, with stalls selling fresh produce, baked goods and plants. It’s all walkable from the station, so it’s the perfect start or end to your visit.
Settle in for a film at The Picture House
The Picture House is Uckfield’s independent cinema. It’s family-run, has luxury seats with food and drink service, and is refreshingly different from big chain cinemas. There are regular family matinees at wallet-friendly prices, and it even has an on-site film-themed restaurant. It’s an easy 5-minute walk from the railway station along the High Street, making it the perfect way to end your day before heading home.
