About Netherfield in East Sussex

Netherfield is a linear village, that is to say it doesn’t have a discernible centre, and a linear village of some extremes – a small population spread out for over a mile along a high ridge.

Sometimes this can result in a place not having an obvious hub and therefore no heart, but that is not the case with this community.

Towards the west of the strip of properties that line the hilltop are the post office and shop, with an adjoining cafe which automatically creates a nucleus to the village. It could be argued that a cup of coffee, slice of cake and chat are as vital amenities to a community as the shop and post office combined, and this cafe – warmly and imaginatively painted on the outside with a warm and friendly welcome inside – serves a valuable purpose.

To the far east of the village stands St John the Baptist church, a relatively new building in comparison to other churches in the area, built in 1860 as a gift from Lady Webster to her husband Sir Godfrey.

The Websters were famed for a long line of eccentrics and Sir Godfrey was no exception, spending much of his life in the Brazilian jungle. Lady Webster’s gift of the church also showed her to be free spirited as she threw in an additional school house which still stands proudly next to the church – although hasn’t been used for education since the 1960’s.

However the school bell on the roof cannot help but charm, or – we suppose – bring on panic and alarm depending on your memories of school!

Between the church and cafe are the playing fields and village hall. A newspaper cutting in the notices window tells us that the hall recently had a free facelift due to the generosity of local builders – namely Westoaks General Builders and Decorators – saving the hall’s committee an estimated £2,500. If that doesn’t prove that this community up on the ridge has a thriving community spirit that what can?

Since the Netherfield Arms was converted from pub to residential property the only pub serving the village is the White Hart. Residents and visitors cannot be too downhearted though, because this is an excellent pub and hotel with a reputation for dining.

Sometimes an emphasis on food can take away from the feeling of a local’s pub where people stand around talking over a pint, but the owners have thought of this and a separate bar room to the front perfectly serves those who don’t wish to eat.

The hotel upstairs has four boutique rooms and the staff will go out of their way to personalise your visit. Rose petals on the bed, perhaps? Not a problem at the White Hart.

The pubs greatest asset is the south facing patio and glass-fronted outside dining area with wonderful views down to the valley and all the way to Bexhill and the sea over seven miles away.

Add to this fine food and accommodation, can there be a better destination for lunch, or a more significant celebration, in the entire area?

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Message Board

Cricket Pavilion

Hi, I am a member of Beachy Head Rambling group and once when we were walking a lady in shop … more

Population

Can anyone please tell me the population of Netherfield and does it have a parish council?

Attractions and Activities

Stephen Mason – Silk Painting

I offer Silk painting sessions over two or three days at my studio and C17 home in Battle. No previous experience is required and I will work at a pace which suits you . All materials, Organic Tea/Coffee and Biscuits … more

The Battle Quiz Trail

More than just an activity, the Battle Quiz Trail & Town Souvenir is full of local facts and stories. All presented in short snippets giving you lots of highlights. Complete the trail in your own time at your own pace. … more

The Bannatyne Spa Hotel

Set amid 38 acres of woodland and gardens, 3 miles away from the historic towns of Hastings and Battle in East Sussex, the hotel is an ideal base to explore 1066 country. The house was built in 1719 and remodelled … more

Accommodation

White Hart Inn

Situated in Brightling, 26 km from Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park, White Hart Inn features accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. Featuring a bar, the property is located within 27 km of Eastbourne … more

Shooting Box Tower

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

Rosemary Cottage

Situated in 1066 country in a rural location. Rosemary Cottage is set on the edge of Hooe Village near Battle (6 miles), Bexhill(4 miles) and Eastbourne (8 miles). There are castles, vineyards, beaches, walks, bird watching, children’s amusement parks, golf, … more

Restaurants

White Hart Inn

Situated in Brightling, 26 km from Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park, White Hart Inn features accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. Featuring a bar, the property is located within 27 km of Eastbourne … more

The Brickwall Hotel

With leafy gardens and a restaurant, The Brickwall Hotel offers cooked breakfasts and free Wi-Fi. The hotel is situated in the pretty East Sussex village of Sedlescombe. Set in a Tudor building, the spacious rooms at The Brickwall have private … more

Chequers Inn

Set in Battle, 24 km from Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park, Chequers Inn offers accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. Offering a bar, the property is located within 24 km of Eastbourne Pier. … more

Towns and villages near Netherfield …

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