Brightling is a small village, which lies about 5 miles north-east of Battle off the B2096.
The church, St Thomas a Becket, has several interesting features. In the churchyard is a pyramid where Brightling’s most famous resident John Fuller was buried in 1834. Local legend had it that he was buried seated at a table dressed in full evening dress with a bottle of claret. These stories were fund to be untrue during restoration on the tomb many years later. Mad Jack Fuller as he was known gave the church a unique barrel organ and a peal of bells.
Mad Jack Fuller was a larger than life man who lived at Brightling Park. The family fortune had been made from the iron industry. Mad Jack became MP for East Sussex and seems to have fostered an image of eccentricity. He was also quite a philanthropist and supported the arts and science. He was a patron of JMW Turner who painted views of Brightling. But perhaps Mad Jack is most famous for collection of follies he built around Brightling.
Fullers Follies
Brightling Needle, an obelisk over 65 feet (20m) high was built on the second highest point in East Sussex and was erected around 1810. The reason for its construction is not clear but it said that it was to commemorate Nelson’s victory at Trafalgar in 1805 or Wellington’s victory over Napoleon in 1815.
The Sugar Loaf, which is sometimes known as Fuller’s Point, is in a meadow and stands 35 feet (10.7m. The name comes from the conical shaped loaf that sugar was sold in at that time. It was apparently built to win a bet that Mad Jack made whilst in London. He claimed he could see Dallington Church (a nearby village) from his house in Brightling. When he returned he discovered that he couldn’t as a hill blocked his view, so the Sugar Loaf was hastily erected to win the bet.
The Tower or Watch Tower built by Fuller in the middle of a field, stands 35 feet (10.6m) high and 12 feet (3.7m) in diameter. There are several stories attached to it but it was built in the late 1820’s.
The Temple or Rotunda was built in the grounds of Brightling Park perhaps to add a classical element to the gardens. This was erected around 1810.
The Observatory, now a private residence was completed in 1810. It was equipped with all the equipment of the time including a Camera Obscura. It is thought that Turner may have used this on his visits to Rose Hill.
, 10:15am – 11:15am
Battle Memorial Hall, Battle
A class for abilities who would like to improve core strength, stability and flexibility. Pilates exercises and stretching.
To: Nicola Bennett I am related to Constance May Selmes who died last year. I am a Relf decendant. Please … more
Hi, During the war my Mother was evacuated to Brightling and stayed with a couple called Bert and Eva at … more
Group of local people who enjoy cycling and want to improve cycling facilities in Battle, Robertsbridge, and the surrounding “1066” area.
This romantic 5-acre garden has many mature trees and rhododendrons surviving the 1980s’ hurricane. There are water features and a stunning wild garden with gazebo and pond. Main borders include old roses and herbaceous plantings. The secret garden leads to … more
Play facilities include, for younger children, a castle themed play area, a play boat and springy horses; for older children & teens there is an area including a basket swing, aero skate and a sheltered seating pod. The recreation ground … more
Set in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Battenhurst Meadow Bed and Breakfast is a contemporary house with far reaching views across the High Weald of Sussex, with grounds of just under an acre and ample parking available for guests. … more
Offering a garden and garden view, Shooting Box Tower is set in Battle, 28 km from Eastbourne Pier and 36 km from Glyndebourne Opera House. Both free WiFi and parking on-site are accessible at the holiday home free of charge. … more
Recently refurbished, this Grade II listed hotel is situated in the heart of the small market town of Battle, opposite the historic site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings. There is free Optic WiFi. The restaurant offers locally sourced produce … more
This boutique hotel is located in the village of Ticehurst in East Sussex. Bell In Ticehurst offers guests the choice between rooms and lodges within an old coaching inn. This award-winning property has individually styled accommodation, some with free-standing copper … more
Located in Robertsbridge, 32 km from Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park, The George Inn provides accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. This 5-star inn offers a bar. The property is non-smoking and is … more