By Kate Folley
As a resident of Hurstpierpoint for a number of years, I felt I was pretty familiar with its hidden gems and historical nooks and crannies. When visitors descended I would happily, with a mock air of authority, point out local landmarks, quote dates and the Domesday book and make links to William the Conqueror. That, however, was the extent of my knowledge.
So, when asked to review the ‘Hurstpierpoint Heritage Trail’ produced by the dedicated and highly passionate members of the Hurstpierpoint Society, I was truly delighted. I was presented with a beautifully designed pamphlet. The historical scene set in two brief paragraphs then … follow the arrows … 32 points of historical interest to explore in the village.
A map, a ‘start here’, picture clues and even QR codes - a veritable treasure map of the past. My son pointed out that it was the kind of quality pamphlet you pick from the AirBnB folder, whilst leaving the other garish ones aside (you know the ones I mean).
So armed with a husband and an enthusiastic teenager we rose to the challenge and set off to and trial the trail. Starting at the village garden, past the village’s namesake you are guided through 400 years of history embodied in a coaching inn, communal wash house and lavatories. You then pass through Policeman’s Lane (origins of the name intrigues me - this is where we used the QR code or you can click here) and weave between a collection of beautiful cottages (by the way, turn left after Cowdrays and continue along the footpath to the Brighton Rd, otherwise you’ll end up on an equally but delightful walk but through the fields).
The trail continues back up onto the High Street but you are quickly whipped away from the contemporary bustle to Furlong Lane and flint towers that were supposed to deter the French from invasion. Continue through to where cattle grazed, now the recreational ground for the locals and past magnificent 19th century villas. Take time to breathe in the heady scent of the eucalyptus as you swing by and wander towards the church and Millennium gardens, where the wooden tree folk will give you an excuse to rest a while. The trail continues back onto the High Street and you feel satisfactorily ‘circled’, just before cornering by Hampers Deli (perfect snack point).
I particularly liked the note of the old graffiti carved into the sandstone wall, something I have never noticed and became fascinated by: ’ R.Bartley 1904’ and ‘M @ Haz’ sit side by side. A few more landmarks are noted in the High Street, with a kindly nod to the shops and encouragement to visit ‘the many purveyors of sustenance’ in Hurst. A thoroughly enjoyable couple of hours discovering a village I thought I knew. I encourage you all, locals and visitors alike - go trial that trail.
Join the trail through us, right here! Use this link to start your adventure today: https://hurstpierpointsociety.org.uk/hurstpierpoint-heritage-walk/