Alfriston

Situated in the valley of the River Cuckmere is the picturesque village of Alfriston. Running along the east side of the village, the river provides a spectacular backdrop to the stunning views across the Wealden district. The popular South Downs Way National Trail; stretching from Winchester, Hampshire to Eastbourne, East Sussex intersects the village and allows for scenic walks through the chalk downland of Alfriston to other popular East Sussex locations such as Berwick, Seaford and Peacehaven.

Historically, Alfriston was a popular resting place for monks making their pilgrimage across East Sussex from the famous Battle Abbey between the fourteenth and sixteenth century to Chichester Cathedral to visit the shrine of St. Richard. The village also has many historic churches and buildings, including the Alfriston Clergy House, which was the first building in Britain brought by the National Trust for conservation in 1896.

Alfriston’s outstanding beauty is mentioned in several popular culture texts, most notably in author Peter Cheyney’s novels, including “Uneasy Terms” (1946). The famous hymn “Morning Has Broken” (1931) was also written in Alfriston by Eleanor Farjeon after she was inspired by the village’s scenic East Sussex countryside.

Alfriston boasts three traditional inns and several hotels, as well as quaint tea-rooms and numerous restaurants. The beautiful landscape and the peaceful atmosphere make Alfriston the perfect choice for a tranquil weekend break in the magnificent East Sussex countryside.