Magham Down, East Sussex

Magham Down is a village nestled between Herstmonceux and Hailsham in East Sussex, situated along the A271 road. The village features the Grade II listed Magham Down Manor House, a notable historic building.

Historically, Magham Down marked a key junction east of Hailsham where roads diverged towards Battle and Hastings or towards Herstmonceux Castle. In the eighteenth century, the road layout was altered to create a more direct route to Battle, known as New Road, while the original path became Old Road. The route to Herstmonceux Castle remains Under Road.

Most residences cluster along Old Road and Squab Lane, with a small commercial area once centred at the fork of the two eastward roads. This area historically included a blacksmith’s forge. During the twentieth century, Magham Down’s commercial activity peaked with establishments such as a motor garage, the Red Lion pub, a guest house, and a village shop with a post office.

Over time, the garage and guest house merged into the Old Forge Hotel, while the Red Lion pub and village shop eventually closed. The village also contains the former Ebenezer Strict Baptist Chapel, now converted into a private residence.