east grinstead tourist information

Local Attractions & Tourist Hot Spots

Samuel johnson said that when a man is tired of london he is tired of life. we believe that if a man, woman or child is bored in east grinstead then they are also tired of life..

Open all year round, the diversity of things to do in East Grinstead and the surrounding areas is quite remarkable. Whether you are looking for a short break or something longer, there really is something for everyone. From enjoying our glorious countryside, visiting our historic sites, or enjoying good food and a glass of wine, we have it all.

If you are interested in history, then East Grinstead has it in bucket loads! Medieval buildings, a historic high street, a steam railway and, in more recent times, the WW2 Guinea Pig Club and the development of reconstructive (plastic) surgery pioneered by the world-renowned surgeon Sir Archibald McIndoe. Find out more at East Grinstead Museum.

CLICK ON ONE OF OUR POPULAR ATTRACTIONS TO FIND OUT MORE

Millennium Stone & Meridian Line

Hammerwood Park

East Grinstead Museum

St Swithun’s Church

Chequer Mead

Historic High Street

Gravetye Estate

Jubilee Drinking Water Fountain

Sackville College

Standen House

Weir Wood Reservoir Nature Reserve

Sackville House

Kingscote Valley

Bluebell Railway

McIndoe Memorial Statue

Check out our directory listings below for local attractions & tourist hot spots and find out more about the many things to do in and around East Grinstead.

East Grinstead’s Historic High Street

William Robinson Gravetye Estate

Velocity Paintball

Gotwick Horse Drawn Carriages

East Grinstead Town Council

Upcoming local attraction events.

sun 28 apr 10:00 am sun 3:00 pm 10:00 am - 3:00 pm (GMT+01:00) MG Car Club at The Bluebell Railway The Bluebell Railway

Event Details

MG Car Club at The Bluebell Railway 30 March & 28 April 2024 – Sheffield Park & Horsted Keynes The Bluebell Railway is set to

MG Car Club at The Bluebell Railway

30 march & 28 april 2024 – sheffield park & horsted keynes.

For tickets click here

(Sunday) 10:00 am - 3:00 pm (GMT+01:00)

Calendar GoogleCal

sat 04 may 10:00 am sat 3:00 am 10:00 am - 3:00 am (GMT+01:00) Stormtroopers at the Bluebell Railway Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station, Station Approach, Uckfield, TN22 3QL

This event promises an exhilarating experience for Star Wars enthusiasts. This event caters to fans of all ages and offers a unique opportunity to meet and greet (at intervals between

This event promises an exhilarating experience for Star Wars enthusiasts. This event caters to fans of all ages and offers a unique opportunity to meet and greet ( at intervals between 10 am- 3pm ) the iconic characters both on our trains and at Sheffield Park.

Attracting particular attention is the presence of Darth Vader himself, as well as the famous Stormtroopers , this will ensure an unforgettable encounter on May 4th. Whether one is a die-hard fan or simply curious about the galaxy far, far away, this event guarantees a thrilling adventure with photo opportunities, and authentic costuming that accurately replicates the legendary Stormtroopers on display.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary event; which is  FREE  when book your travel tickets.  Come along and “May The 4th” be with you at the Bluebell Railway!

Whilst we try to ensure all information is correct, please check the Bluebell Railway site for further information.

(Saturday) 10:00 am - 3:00 am (GMT+01:00)

Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station, Station Approach, Uckfield, TN22 3QL

fri 10 may (may 10) 10:00 am sun 12 (may 12) 4:00 am 10:00 am - 4:00 am (12) (GMT+01:00) Branch Line Gala Weekend Bluebell Railway, Firbank Way, East Grinstead, RH19 1EB

One of our most popular events of the year at The Bluebell Railway, welcoming back for 2024 our Branch Line Gala Weekend! This event is a must for all fans

10 (Friday) 10:00 am - 12 (Sunday) 4:00 am (GMT+01:00)

sat 18 may 10:00 am sat 11:30 am 10:00 am - 11:30 am (GMT+01:00) Guided Tour of Historic East Grinstead FROM EAST GRINSTEAD MUSEUM

As spring has finally sprung, why not come and learn about your local high street? Join our local expert as she takes you on a tour around East Grinstead’s medieval

As spring has finally sprung, why not come and learn about your local high street? Join our local expert as she takes you on a tour around East Grinstead’s medieval heart from St Swithuns Church to Sackville College.

The tour will include a 30 minute tour of the inside of St Swithuns, given by a member of the St Swithuns Restoration Trust.

The tour will start and finish at the Museum.

£6.50 per person, no concessions

10:00am to 11:30am. Tickets will be available to purchase from the front desk from 9:30am.

Please note that it will depart sharply from the museum at 10:00am in order to visit St Swithuns Church.

FIND OUT MORE >>

Please note: Whilst we try our best to display correct event information, we are not responsible for any event changes or cancellations. Visit East Grinstead Museum’s website for latest information

(Saturday) 10:00 am - 11:30 am (GMT+01:00)

East Grinstead Town Museum

Old Market Yard, Cantelupe Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 3BJ

Get Directions

sat 18 may (may 18) 10:00 am sun 19 (may 19) 4:00 pm 10:00 am - 4:00 pm (19) (GMT+01:00) Road meets Rail at The Bluebell Railway The Bluebell Railway, Horsted Keynes Station, Haywards Heath, RH17 7BE

ROAD MEETS RAIL WILL RETURN TO THE BLUEBELL RAILWAY ON THE 18TH & 19TH MAY 2024!  Our 2024 Road meets Rail event will be taking place 18 – 19 May at

ROAD MEETS RAIL WILL RETURN TO THE BLUEBELL RAILWAY ON THE 18TH & 19TH MAY 2024! 

Our 2024 Road meets Rail event will be taking place 18 – 19 May at Horsted Keynes Station. Last year it was a fabulous event on our calendar, and we are really pleased to welcome it back. Hop on and off trains all day with your event ticket. With this ticket, you can start your journey at any of our four stations, but don’t forget to refer to the  timetable  for the day of travel so you can plan where and when you will catch your trains.

Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 May 2024

Step back in time for a weekend of steam powered demonstrations and vintage fairground fun! Traction engines, road rollers, steam wagons, showman’s engines, crane engines and more… bringing Horsted Keynes station to life with recreations of a bygone age.

See how road building, wood sawing, timber haulage and thrashing were carried out in the early 1900s. Watch as steam wagons and pantechnicons arrive with goods to be unloaded for onward rail transport and larger loads are craned into wagons. Experience vintage fairground rides, enjoy an ice cream and watch miniature steam displays in the paddock, with a fabulous view of the  passenger trains passing by.

On Saturday evening, we will be hosting live music, food and drink at Horsted Keynes after the event on this day. Everyone is welcome to this event so come along, wind down and enjoy the evening with us!

18 (Saturday) 10:00 am - 19 (Sunday) 4:00 pm (GMT+01:00)

Bluebell Railway, Horsted Keynes Station, Haywards Heath, RH17 7BE

sat 25 may (may 25) 10:00 pm sun 26 (may 26) 3:00 pm 10:00 pm - 3:00 pm (26) (GMT+01:00) Circus Skills at the Bluebell Railway Bluebell Railway, Kingscote Station, Vowels Lane, East Grinstead, RH19 4LD

Attention all circus enthusiasts! Make sure to mark your calendars for the exciting event happening on 25-26 May at the Bluebell Railway. As one of the leading heritage steam railways

Attention all circus enthusiasts! Make sure to mark your calendars for the exciting event happening on 25-26 May at the Bluebell Railway. As one of the leading heritage steam railways in the UK, Bluebell Railway is known for its commitment to preserving and showcasing the rich history of steam locomotives. However, this time they are adding a unique twist to their regular schedule by hosting a Circus Skills event on board their trains and at Kingscote station.

This thrilling experience allows visitors to witness impressive circus skills while enjoying the picturesque scenery that surrounds them on our trains ( at intervals between 10 am & 3 pm ).

Come along to Kingscote, and take part in a workshop where you too can learn Circus Skills when you visit! ( Between 11 am & 2:50 pm- a short break will take place at 1 pm for those running the workshop. A fee of £5.00 per person to take part on the day- each session will last 1 hour. )

Whether you’re a circus aficionado or simply looking for a fun-filled day out, Bluebell Railway’s Circus Skills event promises entertainment like no other. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable spectacle!

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary event; which is  FREE  when book your travel tickets, and our Kids For A Quid travel offer is also available!

Please check Bluebell Railway website for latest up to date information.

25 (Saturday) 10:00 pm - 26 (Sunday) 3:00 pm (GMT+01:00)

Bluebell Railway, Kingscote Station, Vowels Lane, East Grinstead, RH19 4LD

mon 27 may 10:00 am mon 3:00 am 10:00 am - 3:00 am (GMT+01:00) Sparkle Day at the Bluebell Railway Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station, TN22 3QL

Pack your bags for an enchanting day at The Bluebell Railway on May 27th, where a dash of glitter awaits you! We are ecstatic to introduce our special guest, the

Pack your bags for an enchanting day at The Bluebell Railway on May 27th, where a dash of glitter awaits you! We are ecstatic to introduce our special guest, the glamorous Fashionista Doll (at intervals) at Sheffield Park & Steamworks.

Be spellbound by the marvels of Steamworks, an awe-inspiring exhibition of vintage and modern steam engineering. Not just that, embark on a train journey that is nothing short of magical. Now, here’s a treat for the little ones: children aged between 3 and 15 can hop on this magical journey for just £1, provided there’s an adult with a valid ticket accompanying them!

This is not just another day out, it’s Sparkle Day – a train ride that goes beyond transportation, crafting unforgettable memories. Come and make your day unforgettable with us

Meet & Greet Times:  10:00, 11:00, 12:20, 1:30, 2:50

For exact timing, tickets and more information click here

(Monday) 10:00 am - 3:00 am (GMT+01:00)

sat 01 jun 10:00 am sun 02 (jun 2) 4:00 pm 10:00 am - 4:00 pm (2) (GMT+01:00) Southern at War at the Bluebell Railway Bluebell Railway

Southern At War is making a comeback at The Bluebell Railway in 2024! This highly anticipated event will transport you back in time, this year celebrating and commemorating the 80th anniversary

Southern At War is making a comeback at The Bluebell Railway in 2024!

This highly anticipated event will transport you back in time, this year celebrating and commemorating the 80th anniversary of Operation Overlord. You won’t want to miss out on a weekend filled with re-enactors, classic vehicles, displays, stands, and more. Get into the spirit of the occasion by dressing up in your finest period clothing and immersing yourself in the 1940s once again.

Make sure to mark your calendars and be a part of this heartfelt celebration. Don’t miss the chance to experience history first hand!

Please note: Whilst we try our best to display correct event information, we are not responsible for any event changes or cancellations. So please visit Bluebell Railway’s website for latest information .

1 (Saturday) 10:00 am - 2 (Sunday) 4:00 pm (GMT+01:00)

sat 01 jun 10:30 am sat 12:00 pm 10:30 am - 12:00 pm (GMT+01:00) Second World War - Guided Town Tour East Grinstead Museum

As summer returns, why not come and discover the Second World War stories hidden in the heart of East Grinstead? Join our local expert as she takes you on

As summer returns, why not come and discover the Second World War stories hidden in the heart of East Grinstead? Join our local expert as she takes you on a tour around East Grinstead, and shows you the site of one of the worst aircraft raids during the war, as well as the story of the Guinea Pig Club.

10:30am to 12pm

This is a drop in event, so there is no need to book.

Please note: Whilst we try our best to display correct event information, we are not responsible for any event changes or cancellations. Please visit East Grinstead Museum’s website for latest information</a

(Saturday) 10:30 am - 12:00 pm (GMT+01:00)

thu 06 jun 7:00 am thu 9:00 am 7:00 am - 9:00 am (GMT+01:00) The Empire Javelin - D-Day Assault Ship Tudor House 22-24 High Street, East Grinstead RH19 3AS

The book covers two different themes that converge at 06.31 on Tuesday, June 6th 1944. First, Britain’s need for ships and the building of a ship that otherwise would never

The book covers two different themes that converge at 06.31 on Tuesday, June 6th 1944. First, Britain’s need for ships and the building of a ship that otherwise would never have been built. Second, the story of the men, largely from Virginia, that ended up sailing on her on that fateful morning.

Join us for the national launch of  The Empire Javelin: D-Day Assault Ship,  to be held on the 80th anniversary of D-Day itself.

This will be Philip K Bujak’s third event at The Bookshop.  Do come and join us.  For more information and tickets click here

(Thursday) 7:00 am - 9:00 am (GMT+01:00)

The Book Shop

sat 08 jun (jun 8) 10:00 am sun 09 (jun 9) 3:00 am 10:00 am - 3:00 am (9) (GMT+01:00) Paw Patrol at the Bluebell Railway Bluebell Railway , Sheffield Park Station , East Sussex, TN22 3QL

PAW Patrol’s Chase & Marshall are heading to the Bluebell Railway! Mark your calendars for June 8th and 9th at Sheffield Park! Not only will you have the chance to meet

PAW Patrol’s Chase & Marshall are heading to the Bluebell Railway! Mark your calendars for June 8th and 9th at Sheffield Park!

Not only will you have the chance to meet and greet with these heroic pups at intervals throughout the day, but guess what? This event is FREE to fare-paying passengers, and kids can also travel for just a quid with any fare-paying adult! How awesome is that? The Bluebell Railway is pulling out all the stops to make this an unforgettable experience. So, get ready to hop on board and join Chase & Marshall for a day filled with fun and adventure.

Don’t miss out on this PAWsome opportunity – grab your parents and be prepared to have a woof-tastic time.  Click here for details of events at the Bluebell Railway 

8 (Saturday) 10:00 am - 9 (Sunday) 3:00 am (GMT+01:00)

sat 15 jun 10:00 am sat 11:30 am 10:00 am - 11:30 am (GMT+01:00) Guided Tour of Historic East Grinstead FROM EAST GRINSTEAD MUSEUM

sat 15 jun (jun 15) 10:00 am sun 16 (jun 16) 3:00 pm 10:00 am - 3:00 pm (16) (GMT+01:00) Dinosaurs at the Bluebell Railway Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station, East Sussex, TN22 3QL

Get ready for a thrilling adventure as our beloved Dinosaur pals return to The Bluebell Railway for two exhilarating days of roaring fun in both June and August! Regardless of the

Get ready for a thrilling adventure as our beloved Dinosaur pals return to The Bluebell Railway for two exhilarating days of roaring fun in both June and August!

Regardless of the weather, you’ll have the opportunity to gaze in wonder at our magnificent Dinosaurs on display at Sheffield Park. Even if it starts to rain, these amazing creatures will take shelter in our Steam Works shed, ensuring that the fun doesn’t stop.

What’s more, we have an unbeatable offer where children can join the journey for just £1 when accompanied by an adult with a rail ticket.

Please check the website for tickets and exact timings here

15 (Saturday) 10:00 am - 16 (Sunday) 3:00 pm (GMT+01:00)

sat 22 jun (jun 22) 10:00 am sun 23 (jun 23) 3:00 am 10:00 am - 3:00 am (23) (GMT+01:00) Robots and Machines at the Bluebell Railway

Prepare yourself for an exhilarating outing at Sheffield Park and Steamworks, scheduled for June 22-23. This event promises a fascinating display of walking robots and machinery, varying in all forms

Prepare yourself for an exhilarating outing at Sheffield Park and Steamworks, scheduled for June 22-23. This event promises a fascinating display of walking robots and machinery, varying in all forms and dimensions. Attracting young minds, we have a special ‘Kids For A Quid’ offer, allowing your children to travel for just £1 with any fare paying adult. Make sure to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity. This event is packed with amusement and learning; it’s an experience you wouldn’t want to miss!

For exact timings, more information and tickets click here

22 (Saturday) 10:00 am - 23 (Sunday) 3:00 am (GMT+01:00)

sun 23 jun 10:00 am sun 4:00 pm 10:00 am - 4:00 pm (GMT+01:00) Land Rover Day at The Bluebell Railway The Bluebell Railway, Horsted Keynes Station, Haywards Heath, RH17 7BE

Land Rover Day at The Bluebell Railway 23rd June 2024 – Horsted Keynes Come join fellow enthusiasts at Horsted Keynes for an informal showcase of Land Rovers, spanning from 1948 models to

Land Rover Day at The Bluebell Railway

23rd june 2024 – horsted keynes, come join fellow enthusiasts at horsted keynes for an informal showcase of land rovers, spanning from 1948 models to today’s., from 10 am to 4 pm, enjoy discounted travel for land rover owners who attend., the special ‘kids for a quid’ offer will be in place for train travel on this day. don’t miss this fun-filled day.

(Sunday) 10:00 am - 4:00 pm (GMT+01:00)

sat 13 jul 10:00 am sat 11:30 am 10:00 am - 11:30 am (GMT+01:00) Guided Tour of Historic East Grinstead FROM EAST GRINSTEAD MUSEUM

sat 27 jul 10:30 am sat 12:00 pm 10:30 am - 12:00 pm (GMT+01:00) Second World War - Guided Town Tour East Grinstead Museum

tue 06 aug (aug 6) 10:00 am thu 08 (aug 8) 3:00 pm 10:00 am - 3:00 pm (8) (GMT+01:00) Dinosaurs at the Bluebell Railway Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station, East Sussex, TN22 3QL

6 (Tuesday) 10:00 am - 8 (Thursday) 3:00 pm (GMT+01:00)

sat 10 aug 10:00 am sat 11:30 am 10:00 am - 11:30 am (GMT+01:00) Guided Tour of Historic East Grinstead FROM EAST GRINSTEAD MUSEUM

sat 10 aug (aug 10) 10:00 am sun 11 (aug 11) 3:00 am 10:00 am - 3:00 am (11) (GMT+01:00) Unicorns at the Bluebell Railway Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park, TN22 3QL

Experience the enchantment of unicorns, not only in fairy tales but this weekend at the Bluebell Railway! Our exclusive unicorn-themed weekend is ready to add a touch of magic to your

Experience the enchantment of unicorns, not only in fairy tales but this weekend at the Bluebell Railway!

Our exclusive unicorn-themed weekend is ready to add a touch of magic to your journey. Authentic and captivating, they’re designed to ignite joy and wonder. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by!

For exact timings, information and tickets click here

10 (Saturday) 10:00 am - 11 (Sunday) 3:00 am (GMT+01:00)

sat 24 aug 10:30 am sat 12:00 pm 10:30 am - 12:00 pm (GMT+01:00) Second World War - Guided Town Tour East Grinstead Museum

sat 14 sep 10:00 am sat 11:30 am 10:00 am - 11:30 am (GMT+01:00) Guided Tour of Historic East Grinstead FROM EAST GRINSTEAD MUSEUM

sat 28 sep 10:00 am sat 11:30 am 10:00 am - 11:30 am (GMT+01:00) Guided Tour of Historic East Grinstead FROM EAST GRINSTEAD MUSEUM

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in East Grinstead

Things to do in east grinstead, tours near east grinstead.

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London

Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry

Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise

The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath with Pub Lunch in Lacock

Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms

Small-Group Cotswolds Tour (From London)

Windsor Castle Half Day Trip from London

Guided Luxury Paris Day Trip with Optional Lunch at the Eiffel Tower

Tower of London: Entry Ticket, Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour

Top attractions in east grinstead.

Other Top Attractions around East Grinstead

What travellers are saying

• Kingscote Estate and Vineyard
• Saint Hill Manor
• Chequer Mead Theatre
• East Grinstead Museum
• The Forest Way Country Path
• Stub Ponds Fishery
• Deers Leap Bikes
• The Atrium Cinema

Sussex Exclusive

Discover, explore and savour the best of Sussex

10 Things To Do In East Grinstead

Not far from London, within easy reach of Gatwick and within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, East Grinstead is the gateway to Sussex, with a Medieval High Street and lots of things to do.

Visit the East Grinstead Museum

Start any visit here with a trip to the museum. It’s free to enter and the staff are helpful, welcoming and informative. Starting with dinosaur discoveries, and the history of the town, its industries, and people, the museum also has lots of information about East Grinstead’s pioneering hospital, the role it played in WWII and the Guinea Pig Club. There’s also a small section on local art and artists. A visit here will give you a good understanding of the town.

You’ll find it on Cantelupe Road and it’s open from Wednesday to Sunday.

Explore the Medieval High Street  

A short walk from the museum is the High Street with one of the longest continuous rows of 14th-century timber-framed buildings in England as well as an interesting church and various other buildings. It’s well worth a visit and you can read more about it here: East Grinstead High Street .

You should also walk down to East Court to see the Millennium Stone, some great views, and then stand astride the Meridian Line that runs through the town.

Chess, wine and books

You might want to come back to the High Street at the end of your visit for a trip to the Tasting Rooms. In the summer months, you can sit outside this wine bar and shop. They also do tasting experiences, and cocktails made with locally produced sourced spirits. There is a good bookshop a couple of doors down with a chess club that meets outside on the pavement in the summer!

Enjoy the arts  

East Grinstead has the Chequer Mead Theatre and a cinema. Both venues have a year-round and ever-changing programme.

Saint Hill Manor

Best known for being home to the Church of Scientology, Saint Hill Manor has quite a backstory in its own right. Saint Hill dates back to 1567 but the construction of a Jacobean house on the site was completed in 1733. In 1792, construction of the current house began. Saint Hill Manor is Georgian style and may have been in part designed by Benjamin Henry Latrobe (who designed the US Capital building and the White House).

In the late 19th century, the estate was expanded with the editions of two new wings, a north and south lodge, and a lake. Since then it’s had an interesting history including becoming the home of the Maharajah of Jaipur, India in the late 1940s. L. Ron Hubbard acquired Saint Hill Manor and some 60 surrounding acres in March 1959 and since his death in 2011, there have been considerable renovations and restoration work.  They have a year-round calendar of events and are open to the public all year round.

Standen House

Not far from Saint Hill Manor is Standen House, a country house owned by the National Trust. You can explore the grounds here and in the summer they host sculpture exhibitions.

They also have an award-winning plant collection, as well as an orchard, kitchen garden, rosery and secret paths. The grounds have some stunning views and paths that lead to Ashdown Forest.

The house is an example of Arts and Crafts workmanship, with Morris & Co. interiors. It was built between 1891 and 1894. They also host exhibitions here and you can see how the house would have looked as a family home.

Kingscote Estate and Vineyard

A short drive from East Grinstead towards Turners Hill and you’ll find this fabulous Sussex vineyard. It has a wine shop and cellar door, a bar and kitchen, a wine garden and they offer tours and tastings. It’s a family-owned estate with 160 acres, and you might just hear the sound of a steam train from the Bluebell Railway.

The Bluebell Railway

The Bluebell Railway is a heritage line with a magnificent collection of vintage steam trains and carriages. And the last stop of four on the line is East Grinstead! It’s well worth visiting the Bluebell Railway station where you’ll find interactive exhibitions, staff in period clothing, original working signal boxes, and piles of vintage luggage. They organise lots of special events, and if you’re at the station, Sheffield Park is just across the way.

The Priest House

Owned by The Sussex Archaeological Society, this house once belonged to Henry VIII, Thomas Cromwell, Anne of Cleves, Mary I and Elizabeth I in turn. It is now furnished with 17th & 18th century country furniture and domestic objects. Culinary, medicinal & household herbs are planted in the garden and the curator gives tours of the house and garden on request. It’s in West Hoathly.

Forest Way and Ashdown Forest

Hire a bike from On Your Bike in East Grinstead and head off down the Forest Way. It is a 16 km disused railway line to Groombridge via Forest Row and runs through the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Alternatively, head out to Ashdown Forest which is 2,472 hectares (9.5 sq mi) of ancient heathland with a windmill, stunning views, and home to Winnie the Pooh’s Pooh Stick Bridge!

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On the edge of Ashdown Forest, historic East Grinstead is a lively market town with a charter dating from as long ago as 1221. Until the 18th Century, East Grinstead flourished as an assize and market town and as the centre of the surrounding agricultural and iron workings. The town’s history can be seen in architecture dating from medieval times through 14th Century timber-framed houses to fine examples of Georgian and Regency styles Enjoy the speciality and High Street shopping, the regular farmers market (every Thursday), or one of the many delicious places to eat. Discover the new town museum and the Jacobean Sackville College both a short walk from the centre, or stand on the Meridian line, the centre of time, which travels through East Court on its journey around the world. The May Day Fair is one of many popular events that are held in the town, and the Chequer Mead Arts Centre regularly hosts a variety of theatrical performances and events. The town is the most northern point of the Bluebell Railway which links visitors from the mainline (London Victoria) to the Bluebell Line which stretches through the High Weald and Mid Sussex countryside to the magnificent Sheffield Park Garden at 30 min steam ride away.

Looking for places to stay or visit in and around East Grinstead, visit  Experience Mid Sussex  and or for further inspiration in and around the surrounding area visit Experience West Sussex

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East Grinstead

• 1.1 Visitor information
• 2.2 By train
• 3.2 By taxi
• 7.1 Night clubs
• 7.2 Out of town

East Grinstead is a town in West Sussex , in the South East of England . The town is on the Greenwich Meridian. It has many historic buildings, and the Weald and Ashdown Forest lie to the south-east.

Understand [ edit ]

East Grinstead is an ancient market town that was the capital of the old High Weald. It lies at the meeting point of the four counties of Kent , East Sussex , West Sussex and Surrey .

The High Street contains one of the longest continuous runs of 14th-century timber-framed buildings in England. Other notable buildings in the town include Sackville College, the sandstone almshouse, built in 1609, where John Mason Neale wrote the Christmas carol "Good King Wenceslas". The college has sweeping views towards Ashdown Forest.

The Greenwich Meridian runs through the grounds of the historic 1769 East Court mansion, home of the Town Council, giving the visitor an opportunity to stand with a foot in both the east and west.

Visitor information [ edit ]

• Visitor information from the town council

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

The main roads into East Grinstead are the A22, which runs from the M25 down to Eastbourne and Brighton (as the A26), and the A264, which runs from Tunbridge Wells through East Grinstead to Crawley and Gatwick Airport .

By train [ edit ]

51.126 -0.018 1 East Grinstead station is connected to London Victoria and London Bridge stations. Fare and timetable information is available from Southern , tel. 08457 484950.

By bus [ edit ]

Bus services in East Grinstead are more limited than that of other towns in this area. There are services to Haywards Heath and Crawley , with stops made on many villages in between.

Get around [ edit ]

The centre of East Grinstead is fairly small, and can easily be travelled on foot. As with most other towns in England, the town is well served by buses and taxis.

Metrobus is the main bus company that operates buses in East Grinstead. Timetables and fares are available on Metrobus . Buy your ticket from the driver when you board the bus.

There are also buses from Eastbourne Buses (No. 54) http://www.eastbournebuses.co.uk/bustimes.htm and No. 409 from London buses . Tandridge (Surrey) council Buses4You will transport you from Oxted or Surrey villages, to and from East Grinstead (but not during morning & afternoon school bus times).

By taxi [ edit ]

The main taxi rank is at the train station, although you can order a taxi by telephone to pick you up from anywhere.

• Acorn Cars - +44 1342 410518
• Ivy Dene Cars - +44 1342 835835
• Raceline Cars - +44 1342 317555
• Roadrunners - +44 1342 324444
• Southdown Cars - +44 1342 317400

See [ edit ]

• 51.124792 -0.004731 3 St Swithun's church , Church Ln, RH19 3BB , ☏ +44 1342 325026 . The church stands on the highest ground in the town and was rebuilt in the 18th century (the tower dating from 1789) to a perpendicular design by James Wyatt. The imposing structure dominates the surrounding countryside for many miles around. In the churchyard are commemorated the East Grinstead Martyrs, and in the south-east corner is the grave of John Mason Neale. ( updated Nov 2017 )
• 51.124561 -0.00647 4 East Grinstead Museum , Old Market Yard, Cantelupe Road, RH19 3BJ ( just off the High Street ), ☏ +44 1342 302233 , [email protected] . W-Sa 10AM-4PM, Su 2-5PM . Free .  
• The longest row of 14th-century timber-framed buildings in England lines the top of High Street.

Do [ edit ]

• Check out the local Theatre & Arts Centre, Chequer Mead - one of the best purpose-built venues in the south, with a good range of professional and community-based events.

Go to the races at 51.170556 -0.005 2 Lingfield Park Racecourse , Racecourse Road, Lingfield RH7 6PH ( B2028, half a mile east of Lingfield ), ☏ +44 1342 834800 . Unusually, this has flat-racing all year round, using artificial Polytrack in winter. Flat-racing in summer, and jumps races in winter, are on turf. Lingfield is 3 miles north of East Grinstead, with its own railway station. ( updated Jan 2019 )

• Explore the wealth of walks and trails that lead from the town into the surrounding countryside. Several long distance trails pass through or near the town, such as the High Weald Landscape Trail and the Sustrans National Cycle Network Route 21 passes through the town.
• Climbing: on the Stone Rocks overlooking the Weir Wood Reservoir on the outskirts of the town. There is free access to climbing these rocks, which are suitable for most ages and levels of skills.

Eat [ edit ]

• McDonald's, Wimpy and Starburger Express all have outlets in the town.
• A few Italian chains like Prezzo and Pizza express have restaurants on the historic high street.
• Cuisine Studio ( in the town's Theater & Arts Centre, Chequer Mead ). One of the best and least well-known to visitors (but not to locals!)  
• Lots of take-away outlets in the town.

51.12638 -0.0118 1 Taylors , 18 Railway Approach, RH19 1BP , ☏ +44 1342 321 587 . Generally considered to be the best place for fish and chips, with queues stretching out onto the street at weekends.   There are also several Indian restaurants and Chinese take-away restaurant places.

• Nizam Indian Restaurant .  
• Shapla . Good takeaway.  

Drink [ edit ]

• The Broadway ( located on Railway Approach ). Another large venue.  
• Crows Nest . Live bands every week.  

51.126374 -0.012887 2 The Open Arms , 51 Railway approach ( Between London Road and the Station ), ☏ +44 1342 327727 . 3-11PM . Micropub serving range of cask and real ales. ( updated Dec 2018 )

51.12643 -0.0087 3 The Ounce and Ivy Bush , The Atrium, Little King St, RH19 3DJ ( located on the ground floor of the Atrium Entertainment complex ), ☏ +44 1342 335130 . JD Wetherspoons.  

51.12447 -0.00697 4 The Sportsman , 9-11 Cantelupe Rd, RH19 3BE , ☏ +44 7553 154 315 . One of the smallest pubs in England. Hidden down an alley. Often full of crazy people.  

51.12408 -0.00995 5 The Sussex Arms , 30 West St, East Grinstead RH19 4EQ , ☏ +44 1342 619 101 . Very posh.  

Night clubs [ edit ]

The town also has 2 main nightclubs .

• Tryst ( previously Billy Rox ) ( in the Atrium ).  
• Bliss ( previously Whitehall ), Kings Street .  

Out of town [ edit ]

• 51.14815 -0.09929 6 Curious Pig in the Parlour , Effingham Rd, Copthorne, RH10 3HY ( on the B2037 ), ☏ +44 1342 716 202 . Su-Th noon-10PM, F Sa noon-11PM . The sunday lunch is good ( updated Nov 2023 )

Sleep [ edit ]

• Felbridge Hotel & Spa , London Rd , ☏ +44 1342 337700 . ( updated Apr 2016 )
• 51.077 -0.055 1 The Cat Inn , North Lane, West Hoathly RH19 4PP , ☏ +44 1342 810369 . Excellent inn with 4 rooms out in the countryside. The bar is open M-Sa noon-11PM, Su noon-10PM. No children under 7. B&B double £130 . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• 51.140151 -0.039395 3 Premier Inn East Grinstead , London Rd, Felbridge RH19 2QR , ☏ +44 871 527 8348 . ( updated Apr 2016 )
• 51.0986 0.0329 4 The Swan , 1 Lewes Rd, Forest Row RH18 5ER , ☏ +44 1342 822627 . Country pub with meals and rooms. B&B double £110 . ( updated Oct 2023 )

Connect [ edit ]

• East Grinstead and its approach roads have 4G from all UK carriers. As of Feb 2023, 5G has not reached this area.
• The local weekly newspaper is East Grinstead Courier and Observer , and the community radio station is 107 Meridian FM.

Go next [ edit ]

• East to Royal Tunbridge Wells in Kent
• South East to Ashdown Forest and Forest Row in West Sussex , for walking, wildlife, llamas and Winnie The Pooh .

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East Grinstead

Attractions around East Grinstead

The top 5 attractions around east grinstead.

Ouse Valley Viaduct

Hiking Highlight

One of the country's most beautiful, ornate viaducts, the Ouse Valley Viaduct is still in use today, carrying trains between London and Brighton. It has 37 spans and is a … read more

Ardingly Reservoir

Also a Local Nature Reserve, Ardingly Reservoir was built in the 1970s. It is a wildlife haven with Ospreys even seen here. There are two bird hides on this eastern … read more

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Outwood Windmill

Bike Touring Highlight

Built in 1665, Outwood Windmill is Britain's oldest working windmill and is Grade I listed. Designed by Thomas Budgen, there were originally two mills, but unfortunately, the taller of the … read more

East Sussex Forest Way

Bike Touring Highlight ( Segment )

Running 10 miles (16 km) through the heart of East Sussex from East Grinstead to Groombridge, the Forest Way is a beautiful former railway line through some of the UK's … read more

Turners Hill climb south (avg 8%)

Road Cycling Highlight ( Segment )

This is quite a well known climb on a fairly busy road, from the south up to the village of Turners Hill.

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Explore the most popular Tours around East Grinstead

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

• Burgess Hill
• Hurstpierpoint And Sayers Common
• Ansty And Staplefield
• Lindfield Rural
• Haywards Heath
• West Hoathly
• Horsted Keynes
• Turners Hill
• Ashurst Wood

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Walking Route: East Grinstead and the High Weald

This is a walk made up of a patchwork of small farms and woodlands, sunken lanes, parkland, and tiny villages on the edge of the High Weald AONB. The walk starts and finishes at East Grinstead rail station which is served by trains direct from London. If you are coming by car, the station has its own large car park which is on the opposite side of the rail line from the station building itself- accessed from Grosvenor Road.

Postcode: RH19 1HS

7 miles – Circular – 3.5 Hours – Challenging Terrain

Access Notes

• The walk has several climbs and descents throughout.
• The paths across farm pastures can be very muddy so good boots are required and wellingtons are recommended in the wettest months.
• The majority of the paths are wide and well walked, with just a couple of short stretches that can be a little overgrown.
• You will need to negotiate several footbridges, kissing gates and 4 stiles (all of which have dog-size gaps alongside).
• You are likely to come across cattle and sheep in many of the fields so take particular care with dogs.

Walk Sections

1. Start to Turners Hill Road

Standing with your back to the station entrance, walk across the front premium car park at about 1 o’clock and then bear left along the pavement of the access road (swapping to the right-hand pavement via the zebra crossing), passing Sainsburys on the right. At the roundabout, follow the pavement right (along the B2110 road signed to Turners Hill) and then use the pedestrian crossing to swap to the left-hand pavement.

The road begins to descend, and you will pass a post box on the left. A few metres later, turn left onto the narrow tarmac footpath which leads you between tall hedges. At the bottom you will come to a T-junction with another tarmac path at the edge of Brooklands Park. Turn left and follow this path as it leads you downhill and over a stream bridge. Continue uphill, keep right at the fork and then right at the T-junction and you will emerge out to a road.

Turn right, following the pavement downhill. At the bottom of the road, you will come to a roundabout. Cross over with care to go straight ahead into Turners Hill Road and immediately swap to the left-hand pavement.

2. Turners Hill Road to Radio Mast

When the fence on the left ends, turn left onto the narrow footpath signed as part of the High Weald Landscape Trail. Soon you are forced to dogleg right (through a gate) and then left, continuing through a garden area and running parallel with the houses on the left. Pass a large duck pond on your right, with a stream running down to the left.

Go through the next gate ahead and follow the left-hand edge of two grass pastures, passing through a kissing gate along the way. Stay in the same direction, crossing three footbridges in a belt of woodland and passing through a gate to join an enclosed path with a fenced pasture on the right. Go through the next kissing gate and follow the path running along the right-hand side of a modern retirement and nursing complex. Immediately after this, fork left and head through a car park to reach the back of a pub, Old Dunnings Mill,  should you need refreshments already…

Turn right behind the pub and then turn left down the access road to reach a T-junction with the main road. Turn right along the pavement, heading away from the pub. When the pavement ends, turn right onto a tarmac driveway marked as a no through road. Just after passing the property called Yewhurst on the right, turn left onto another branch of the tarmac drive, Medway Drive, signed as a public footpath.

Keep straight ahead, go through the squeeze gap, and join the obvious path ahead (still part of the High Weald Landscape Trail). Follow the obvious path through the first two fields and then keep right at the fork, staying on the path closest to the woodland on your right for a further two fields. In the far corner of this fourth field, follow the path through the tunnel of holly bushes and then stay with it as it leads you through the centre of a grassy area of scrub.

The path becomes an unmade track, climbing through a tunnel of trees to reach a T-junction marked with a fingerpost. Turn left, go through the gap in the hedge and keep left along the left hand edge of the sports fields. At the far end, continue ahead on the grass footpath which leads you past a tall radio mast on your right.

3. Radio Mast to Sussex Border Path

Follow the path beyond the radio mast and soon it swings right, passing a wide metal gate to reach the road. Cross over and turn left, following the road edge and taking care of traffic for just a few metres to reach the entrance drive for Standen House and Garden on the right. Turn right to join the drive and follow it ahead. At the first marked junction, just before you reach a row of stone estate cottages on the right, leave the entrance drive, turning right into the gap through trees. Two paces in, ignore the path turning sharp right, instead keep ahead on the fenced path with a hedge on the left and a fenced field on the right.

At this point the views across to the right really open up. Given how gradual the climb has been, it’s a nice surprise as you realise the vantage point you’ve reached. There’s a bench just further along if you want to pause and enjoy the views.

Further along, the path swings left through an old metal kissing gate and continues, following the left-hand edge of a large rough pasture. Towards the bottoms of the field, you will come to a fingerpost. Ignore the path to the right, instead go ahead to join the narrow path between sections of rough hedgerows, with a fence on the left. Follow the sunken tree-lined path steadily downhill, ignore the first path signed to the right, simply keep ahead. Stay with the main path as it bears right (still downhill) and a few paces later, at the next fingerpost, take the left-hand path.

Pass through the small metal gate to enter the sheep field and you will now have a view of Weir Wood Reservoir  in the valley bottom. The massive body of water is home to a bird sanctuary, a fishing area, and a sailing club. You will shortly be following the boundary of the reservoir, but the banks are thick with trees, so you won’t see much of the water itself.

Walk downhill, following the left-hand boundary of the sheep field. Cross the stile at the bottom to reach a T-junction with another footpath, the Sussex Border Path.

4. Sussex Border Path to Picnic Site

Turn left along the path, passing through a gate and stile and crossing a small footbridge. Follow the right-hand edge of the next pasture and cross the stile at the far end. This enclosed section of path leads you over a footbridge and past a bench which gives you a rare view of the reservoir. Soon afterwards, ignore the path signed left, simply keep ahead and cross the large wooden stile into the next open field.

Continue along the right-hand boundary of this open grass field which is surrounded by dense hedgerows of blackthorn bushes – ideal for collecting sloes for gin in the autumn. At the end of the field, you will reach a fingerpost. Go ahead on the path staying with the fence on the right, passing through three gates and crossing a footbridge. Stay with the fence as it bends right, and you will come to the Millennium Picnic Site on the right. This is a great place to stop and enjoy any sailing activity on the reservoir.

5. Picnic Site to Forest Way

About 100m after the picnic site, you will come to another fingerpost. Turn left here onto the footpath which is a continuation of the Sussex Border Path. The path leads you steadily uphill with trees on the right and a fenced field on the left. Take care on this short stretch as the path is deeply rutted and can be very slippery.

As you draw alongside a gate on the left, keep ahead to join the wider level path leading you along a belt of trees. At the end, pass through the wide gate to reach the farmyard of Busses Farm. Walk ahead, passing the barns on your right and then turn right along the grass verge which runs behind the buildings (with a pond on your left). Beyond the pond, bear left along the concrete drive and just a few paces later turn right through the gate into the adjacent cattle field (signed as the Sussex Border Path). NOTE: If this field corner is very deep with mud, you may prefer to continue along the concrete drive before ducking under the wooden fence to enter the field at a drier spot.

With your back to the gate (or fence), walk at 10 o’clock, heading for the small gate. Go through this and follow the left hand edge of the next large field, with woodland on the left. In the bottom corner, go through the gate and continue along the left-hand edge of this third cattle pasture (heading for the single house visible within the trees in the distance).

At the far end, keep ahead through the gate and over the large footbridge (ignoring the smaller footbridge to the left). Continue along the narrow tree-lined path and you will emerge to a T-junction with a tarmac access lane. Turn left along this, passing Horseshoe Cottage on your left. Follow the lane past a water treatment works and steadily climbing to reach a bridge over the old rail line. Immediately before the bridge, turn right down the long slope which leads you down to a junction with this old rail path, Forest Way.

6. Forest Way to Lewes Road

Turn left along the old rail line and follow it under the bridge. This linear country park runs for about 16km from East Grinstead to Groombridge. Its flat level surface makes it ideal for families to enjoy walking, cycling and horse riding. Across to the right you will see the old estate land of Luxford House.

Further along, the rail line passes between houses each side and leads you to a crossroads with Herontye Drive. Cross over with care and take the rail line which continues ahead, signed to the town centre. Keep left at the fork and follow this path all the way to the top to reach a junction with the main road at the edge of East Grinstead. Pass through the staggered barrier and turn left onto Lewes Road, signed to the town centre.

7. Lewes Road to End

At the mini roundabout, keep straight ahead passing the impressive Sackville College across to the right. Continuing along the road, heading into the heart of East Grinstead you get a true sense of the age of the place. Keep ahead into Middle Row, following the partially cobbled street between shops and then continuing on along the length of the old High Street.

Just beyond the war memorial you will come to a mini roundabout. Turn right here and follow London Road through more of the retail centre. Swap to the left-hand pavement at the crossing and continue down to the junction with lights. Go straight ahead, still on London Road, and continue to the next mini roundabout. Fork left here, marked with the brown tourism sign for the Bluebell Railway . At the end of this road, Railway Approach, you will come to the roundabout you passed earlier. Cross over to go straight ahead to reach the station where the walk began.

This walking route was walked and checked at the time of writing. We have taken care to make sure all our walks are safe for walkers of a reasonable level of experience and fitness. However, like all outdoor activities, walking carries a degree of risk and we accept no responsibility for any loss or damage to personal effects, personal accident, injury or public liability whilst following this walk. We cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that result from changes to the routes that occur over time. Please let us know of any changes to the routes so that we can correct the information.

Walking Safety

For your safety and comfort we recommend that you take the following with you on your walk: bottled water, snacks, a waterproof jacket, waterproof/sturdy boots, a woolly hat and fleece (in winter and cold weather), a fully-charged mobile phone, a whistle, a compass and an Ordnance Survey map of the area. Check the weather forecast before you leave, carry appropriate clothing and do not set out in fog or mist as these conditions can seriously affect your ability to navigate the route. Take particular care on cliff/mountain paths where steep drops can present a particular hazard. Some routes include sections along roads – take care to avoid any traffic at these points. Around farmland take care with children and dogs, particularly around machinery and livestock. If you are walking on the coast make sure you check the tide times before you set out.

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East Grinstead Museum: A History of the Town That Didn’t Stare

WE DO NOT RECOMMEND ANY NON-ESSENTIAL TRAVEL AT THIS TIME DUE TO THE GLOBAL HEALTH CRISIS! Our travel articles have not been updated to reflect any travel restrictions which may be in place; please check with your destination for up-to-date information.

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In my opinion, dark tourism doesn’t always have to be full of tragedy, or leave you feeling hopeless. In fact, sometimes that is the very point of dark tourism – to show us that even at the worst of times, humanity can prevail. Which is why the town of East Grinstead is the perfect addition to our dark tourism portfolio.

Have you ever heard of East Grinstead? For most people, my guess is probably not. Or, if you’re like me, you’ve heard of it, even been through it, but thought nothing of it. Just another small, quirky British town on my train route. What about plastic surgery? What do you picture? For me, it was boob jobs and ass lifts. What I can say with certainty, though, is that I had never heard of Archibald McIndoe.

Strap in everyone; this post is history heavy, full of facts and may contain sensitive images. It may also help restore your faith in humanity.

This is the story of Archibald McIndoe, plastic surgery and East Grinstead – the town that didn’t stare.

RELATED: Why Dark Tourism Matters (According to a Dark Tourist)

THERE’S SO MUCH TO SEE AT THE EAST GRINSTEAD MUSEUM

It’s true, the permanent exhibit on Archibald McIndoe and the Guinea Pig Club detailed below, definitely took up most our attention. However, that is only half the museum. The other half details the history of East Grinstead itself. The museum chronicles’s the town’s history all the way back to the dinosaurs. Did you know you can even see footprints left by the Iguanodon not far from the town?

The museum is full of fascinating facts and interesting connections to the UK’s long history.

We learned that East Grinstead was once even an important staging post during the 17th century due to bad roads. In 1855, the first railway came through East Grinstead. This brought continued great prosperity to the town until the end of the 18th century when better infrastructure took traffic away from East Grinstead and directly through London.

In 1943, the town was devastated by bombings that killed 108 people at the Whitehall Cinema and surrounding areas. It was the worst attack in Sussex.

Today East Grinstead remains entirely off the beaten path.

Fun fact: In addition to the fascinating East Grinstead Museum, we found out (after our visit), that the town is in fact the home of the Scientology headquarters. How random is that? You can learn even more fun facts and history about East Grinstead on The Town That Didn’t Stare podcast , one of our favourite Dark History Podcasts !

A Brief History of Queen Victoria Hospital: 1863 – 1930

Today, the Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead is world famous due to McIndoe and his team. It remains the regional centre for excellence in facial reconstruction and burns. However, in the hospital’s infancy, it was a small building capable of housing no more than six patients. The hospital opened in 1863 as one of only five cottage hospitals in the country. Since then, it has been housed in multiple buildings at four different locations.

Unfortunately, the first hospital was closed 1874 due to, as the head surgeon John Henry Rogers stated, “the meanness of the wealthy and too often the ingratitude of the poor.” You can still see the original building on Green Hedges Road. There remained no East Grinstead hospital until 1888 when a local stable boy suffered a severe (but unspecified) accident. It was gruesome enough, however, that locals Mr and Mrs Oswald Smith decided to fully finance a new cottage hospital. This one housed five patients.

As demand increased, an additional hospital building was opened in 1902, again care of the Smiths, who generously donated their holiday home on Queen’s Road. Inspired in part by its location, as well as a national movement to name new establishments after the queen, the new hospital became known as Queen Victoria Cottage Hospital. Incidentally, this made it more popular and increased its funding.

A Brief History of Queen Victoria Hospital: 1930 – Present Day

However, demand continued to grow. In 1930, Sir Robert Kindersley donated 4.3 acres of land to East Grinstead in order to build a larger hospital. The new hospital opened 8 January 1936, and was the foundation of the current Queen Victoria Hospital. It housed 24 people (six men, six women, six children and six private patients). These original buildings are still in use today.

In the late 1930s, the government became acutely aware that facilities would be needed to accommodate burn victims of the war. During WWII, thousands of surviving soldiers suffered severe burns and loss of limbs due to bombs and air warfare. The hospitals were filling up, and the British government knew they needed a contingency plan. To support the overwhelming need, East Grinstead’s Queen Victoria Hospital was converted into a specialist facial reconstruction centre.

Meet the Team

Leading the specialist team was Dr Archibald McIndoe, a New Zealander, and civilian plastic surgeon for the Royal Airforce (RAF). He arrived in East Grinstead on 4 September 1939. He was responsible for running the new Centre for Plastic and Jaw Surgery. McIndoe studied under Harold Gillies, another New Zealand citizen, who is considered to be the father of plastic surgery, and responsible for revolutionary burn treatment during WWI.

However, McIndoe could not have done it without his dedicated and specialist staff. Including his first in command, Sister Jill Mullins. It is said they were so in sync, words were not needed during surgeries, and implements were passed back and forth without prompting.

The Most Exclusive Club in the World

The burn victims treated by McIndoe and his team at Queen Victoria Hospital became known as the Guinea Pigs. The name came about because McIndoe was very open about the fact that as plastic surgery was still in its infancy, every procedure was therefore an experiment – and the patients his guinea pigs. While this might sound appalling to some, for McIndoe’s 649 patients, it gave them a sense of camaraderie. In 1941, a few of the survivors formed a drinking group, effectively starting the Guinea Pig Club. They deemed it ‘the most exclusive club in the world,’ further stating that ‘the entrance fee is something most men would not care to pay and the conditions of membership are arduous in the extreme.’

While still recovering in the hospital, they drank together on weekends. However, once they recovered enough to leave and return to their lives, the club members met up once a year. This annual reunion became known as ‘The Lost Weekends’ due to the sheer amount of alcohol consumed. The Guinea Pig Pub was opened 9 June 1957, and became their main drinking hole. Unfortunately, the pub closed down in 2007 and was redeveloped for housing. It is now known as Guinea Pig Place.

Over the years, the annual meetings became less rowdy, and more family oriented. The few remaining members continue to meet up when possible.

How McIndoe & His Team Helped Save the Guinea Pigs

McIndoe and his staff didn’t just save the Guinea Pigs’ bodies, they also helped save their minds and mental health. McIndoe understood the importance of mental rehabilitation as well as physical. He knew what effect disfigurement could have on the previously able-bodied men. He was also aware that the men might not fit back into society as easily as before the war. Because of this, McIndoe took a two-step approach to facilitating their social rehabilitation. 

First, he encouraged the men to laugh and socialise and drink. For McIndoe, a positive state of mind was key to successful recovery. Another member of his staff, chief anaesthetist, John Hunter, refused to wear his surgical mask during operations. His excuse was that it made him look like a chef. If questioned by a patient, Hunter jokingly bet that if they became sick afterwards, he would buy them a beer.

The Guinea Pigs were forbidden from wearing their ‘hospital blues,’ the standard outfit issued to all patients at the time. McIndoe believed the outfit made the patients look like prisoners, which decreased morale. In addition, the buttons on the uniform also proved difficult for those with severe burns on their hands.

Additionally, to ease stress about operations, McIndoe encouraged the men to observe each others’ surgeries. Many of the men reported that this proved incredibly helpful, as well as fascinating.

The Town That Didn’t Stare

For the second step in his rehabilitation process, McIndoe and his team spoke to the people of East Grinstead. They counseled the townspeople on how to understand and relate to the survivors. He requested that they not stare or point, and to treat them as if nothing was different. 

As a result, once many of the men had recovered enough to go into the town, they were surprised by the warm reception. People smiled at them, asked how they were, invited them for a drink. Quite quickly, the Guinea Pigs and the residents of East Grinstead became friends. Because of this, East Grinstead became known as the town that didn’t stare.

For many, their relationships back home deteriorated. The men were depressed and found it difficult to fit into society. The women struggled to accept their loved ones who were now so horribly injured. By contrast, many of the Guinea Pigs that remained, felt at home in East Grinstead. In addition to forming lifelong friendships, many married hospital nurses or local women, and settled in nearby towns.

Revolutionary Medicine

Genuinely, the history of this place blew me away. The fact that there was more to plastic surgery than cosmetic perfection alluded me. This is the world we live in. I learned so much in East Grinstead. 

Do you know what tube pedicles are? Yeah, I didn’t either. McIndoe learned the technique from Gillies and then perfected it. It involves cutting a flap of the patients’ skin, ​usually from the leg or chest, forming it into a tube and attaching it to the affected body part. Over a period of several weeks, the tube would be cut shorter and shorter from the original location to the site of injury.

This allowed blood flow to the tissue to continue and keep the skin healthy. By using the patients’ own skin, the chance of infection decreased.

In addition to perfecting this revolutionary technique, McIndoe was responsible for the banning of tannic acid. For burns, tannic acid used to be applied to prevent additional fluid loss and infection. The acid formed a hard shell around the burn, which was then removed before surgery. It worked, but it was extremely painful for the patient. 

Instead, McIndoe decided to keep the wounds open and bath the Guinea Pigs in saline. This also worked, and was much more relaxing for the patient. However, it was exponentially more labour-intensive as it involved constant care from the nursing staff. Because of this, Queen Victoria Hospital had one of the highest ratios of nursing staff to patients in the UK. This included numerous male nurses, who were integral to the process as they were required to lift the men in and out of the baths.

deets on the east grinstead museum

We think you should definitely go to the East Grinstead Museum. It will tell you the full history of the hospital, as well as the town’s general history. I can’t recommend it enough. In fact, we voted it our favourite museum in our 2018 year end review . The staff are friendly and incredibly helpful. I think one of the volunteers might even have been a Guinea Pig (can’t swear to that!). We didn’t get a chance to speak with him as he was chatting with an older woman the whole time we were there. But we didn’t mind as they didn’t know each other, but they were certainly reminiscing!

Cost:  The museum is free, but they receive no funding from any local or national authority and rely on the generosity of visitors and the local community – so please make a donation if you can! In fact, you can make a donation  here . Location:  Cantelupe Rd, East Grinstead RH19 3BJ, just off the High Street. The museum is a 10-15 minute walk from the rail station. Opening Hours:  10:00 – 16:00 Wednesday to Saturday; 13:00 – 16:00 Sunday & bank holidays, Closed on Mondays. Facilities: East Grinstead Museum has on-site parking and is handicap accessible.

OKAY, I’m done with the east grinstead museum, now what?

Sackville College was closed while we were there (it’s only open to visitors during the summer months). But it is meant to be an impressive example of Jacobean architecture. This was the site where Revd. Dr. John Mason Neale wrote numerous hymns. No clue who I’m on about? He’s responsible for the gem “Good King Wenceslas,” which he supposedly wrote while overlooking Ashdown Forest.

By that logic, Ashdown Forest is nearby. It’s not actually in East Grinstead anymore due to development, but it’s a few miles away and we recommend a visit to go on a Winnie the Pooh adventure!

If you can find it, you can stand on the Meridian Line . That’s right, it’s not just in London! Annoyingly, we couldn’t find it, but we are prone to getting lost and confused. Plus, to be honest, we were much more keen on visiting the museum!

Or just wander around and enjoy all the old English architecture!

Sounds Good, But My Stomach’s Rumbling

One of the best things about East Grinstead is that except for a few chains, most of the shops and restaurants are family owned. They have been there for generations. We were in East Grinstead for a day, so we didn’t really eat much. But a cursory glance at Tripadvisor tells me we may have missed out on some real gems. In case you want to recreate our steps….

East Grinstead Bookshop . Yup, that’s right. My food recommendation is a bookshop. After an intense day of history learning, what could be better than a hot chocolate and some carrot cake? That’s right, nothing! To be fair, I don’t know if the carrot cake is always available, but it was very tasty, so if you like cake, I’m sure the other options are also lovely. I don’t like any other type of cake, so it’s quite fortunate this was the one available so I can report on it! Supposedly this bookshop is also world famous. 

Getting There & Away

The easiest way to East Grinstead is via  ​ ​ train ​​​ from London. In fact, why not make it a day trip?

Driving? You’ll likely need to find your way to the A22 at some point. Either way, we recommend checking Google Maps to plot your course.

LOOKING FOR MORE FASCINATING UK TOWNS & CITIES (NOT LONDON)? – Visiting Crowland: A Hidden Gem in the UK – Fun & Historical Things to do in Coventry – A Brief History of Witchcraft in East Anglia – A Local’s Guide to the Dark Side of Norwich INTERESTED IN HISTORICAL THINGS TO DO IN LONDON? – Unusual Dark Tourism Sites in London – London Pubs with Haunting Histories – An Incident at the Old Operating Theatre

Ever been to East Grinstead? Know of any other fascinating small towns that should be on our radar? Are you a fellow dark tourist? Tell us all about it in the comments!

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Dagney McKinney

American by birth, miniature by design. I moved for the first time when I was 18 months old, and I haven't stopped since. If I'm not wandering the planet, you can find me seeking out the hottest food possible or reading a good book and/or listening to a podcast in some quiet, remote alcove. I'm a classic introvert with a penchant for Camelidae, salt and underground spaces.

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East Grinstead Society

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East Grinstead lies in the middle of the Weald, approximately half-way between London and the south coast. It is a compact country town of historical interest surrounded by attractive countryside, with a population approaching 28,000 (2017). It is now part of the Mid Sussex District of West Sussex but was founded as a borough nearly 800 years ago.

Over 80 listed buildings exist within the town centred on the Conservation Area around the High Street. There are 16 ancient timber framed houses and two Grade I listed buildings, Sackville College – an alms house founded in the early 17 th century by the Earl of Dorset and still in use, as well as Old St Margaret’s Convent designed by G.E.Street in 1865, which is now converted into apartments and forms part of a private housing trust.

The town’s boundaries are constrained to the north by Surrey Green Belt  and the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), to the east and south by the High Weald AONB and to the west and south by green gaps separating the town from the village of Crawley Down and Ashurst Wood. Delightful countryside is within easy reach.

Some significant historical events include the opening of the direct railway link to London in 1884, the award of the first Victoria Cross of WW1 to Private Sidney Godfrey who was born in East Grinstead, and the tragic bombing of the Whitehall Cinema and adjacent buildings in 1944, killing 108 people and injuring 235.

Tourist Information

The desk at the town’s library can provide leaflets and information on things to do in and around East Grinstead together with the details of the local bus, train and taxi services, and the Bluebell Railway.

Town Guides and Books

The 1861 Adam & Charles Black travel guide to the South-Eastern Counties describes East Grinstead as ‘…an irregularly-built, but pleasant market-town, situated on an ascent which commands a good view of Kent, Surrey and Sussex. It contains some old timbered houses, and some modern ones of tolerable pretensions…’ Today this snapshot remains largely true.

The first book-length history of the town was published in 1906 by Wallace Henry Hills. Although now out of print, reference copies may be consulted in the Town Museum and Public Library. From the 1890s onwards, commercial photographers produced significant numbers of picture postcards of the town. Many have been reproduced in no less than five published books.

A reproduction and illustrated version of W. H. Hill’s ‘History of East Grinstead’ was compiled and published by local historian Jeremy Clarke in 2016.

A definitive ‘History of East Grinstead’ was written by M. J. Leppard in 2001, a full and scholarly account of the town’s history.

In 2004 Dorothy Hatswell produced ‘A History & Celebration’ of East Grinstead, illustrated by pictures from the Francis Frith Collection, relating stories from the past with what can be seen today.

In 2006 M. J. Leppard published ‘100 Buildings of East Grinstead’.

All the books in print mentioned here can be obtained from the town museum and local booksellers Waterstones and the East Grinstead Bookshop . Dorothy Hatswell’s book is available only at the Museum, where other publications of local interest are also on sale.

Photographs

Over 800 images of old East Grinstead can be seen in the West Sussex County Council archive .

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Notice of vacancy - East Grinstead Town Council Ashplats North Ward

Planning Committee meeting on the 22 April 2024 has been cancelled, all applications will be deferred to the next meeting.

22 May 2020

Please note: this news article is in our archive. Articles were correct at time of publication, but should not be relied on for accuracy after the passage of time.

Our Tourist Information may be closed to the public at the moment, but information about East Grinstead is still available.

Our East Grinstead guide books, maps and walking leaflets can be downloaded from our website  https://www.eastgrinstead.gov.uk/tourism/leaflet-stand/

Our staff can be contacted by email  [email protected] or why not connect via Facebook and Twitter .

We look forward to the time we can welcome you for a longer visit to our beautiful Medieval and Tudor town.

Top Things to Do in East Grinstead

Things to do in east grinstead, tours near east grinstead.

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London

Westminster Walking Tour & Westminster Abbey Entry

Big Bus London Hop-On Hop-Off Tour and River Cruise

The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath with Pub Lunch in Lacock

Westminster 3 Hour Walking Tour & Visit Churchill War Rooms

Small-Group Cotswolds Tour (From London)

Windsor Castle Half Day Trip from London

Guided Luxury Paris Day Trip with Optional Lunch at the Eiffel Tower

Tower of London: Entry Ticket, Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour

Top attractions in east grinstead.

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What travelers are saying

• Kingscote Estate and Vineyard
• Saint Hill Manor
• Chequer Mead Theatre
• East Grinstead Museum
• The Forest Way Country Path
• Stub Ponds Fishery
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  No service trains will be operating and stations (Horsted Keynes, Kingscote & East Grinstead) will be closed on Monday’s & Tuesday’s. This includes all catering outlets at all stations on the railway on both days. Service Trains will operate and all stations will be open from Wednesday’s to Sunday’s.

TIMETABLE A  WILL BE OPERATION ON WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY AND FRIDAY. CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE TIMETABLE.

TIMETABLE C WILL BE OPERATION ON SATURDAY AND SUNDAY. CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE TIMETABLE.

FOOD OUTLET OPENING TIMES AT THE RAILWAY CAN BE FOUND HERE

See our Today at the Railway page for opening times and our Timetables and Calendar for train times and special events. -->

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Victorian drinking fountain gets new lease of life

Local volunteers have worked for three years to get the fountain restored

• Published 19 April 2024

A Victorian drinking fountain which was out of use for half a century has been given a new lease of life after being restored by volunteers.

The fountain in East Grinstead, West Sussex, was erected to celebrate Queen Victoria's golden jubilee in 1887, but fell out of use in the 1970s.

The East Grinstead Society has spent three years working to have the fountain reconnected so it can be used to fill reusable water bottles.

Robin Whalley, the society's vice chairman, believes the fountain's modern day role in protecting the environment is something the Victorians would have approved of.

After being reconnected by South East Water, the restored fountain will be officially unveiled in a ceremony on Friday.

It was built by local builder James Charlwood, whose name can still be seen on the south side of the fountain. The masonry was carried out by James Jenner, whose descendants still live in the town.

The water spouted from two of four bronze dolphins and originally had metal drinking cups attached on chains.

Mr Whalley said: "We were mindful, as this was a listed building, we should do minimal work to it.

"We employed a conservator to give us recommendations about which part of the structure we could repair sensitively and which parts we could clean.

"To support the taps we've designed a concrete cube.

"We got a mason to make this out of similar stone to the original York Stone of the fountain and to copy some of the details."

The fountain was installed in 1887 to mark Queen Victoria's golden jubilee

While the fountain was originally designed to be drunk from directly, it is now strictly for filling reusable bottles, he said.

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• Published 28 October 2023

'They are a beacon in the landscape'

• Published 1 March 2023

Station's drinking fountain restored. Video, 00:01:03 Station's drinking fountain restored

• Published 2 June 2018

Drinking fountains planned for London

• Published 4 December 2017

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