By Emily Volkert
The scent of freshly cut grass and barbeques fill the air; cloudless, lazy, hazy days stretch out for what seems like an eternity before us - the summer holidays are finally here. Whether you are emptying your piggy bank or saving the pennies for a rainy day, the summer is full of endless opportunities to suit any kind of budget. Armed with a little imagination and a few good ideas, you can transform any threats of boredom and squabbles into a magical whirlwind of excitement and happy memories.
As well as fun filled days at home, kids will love planning a few special trips out. September will soon be looming, so before the holidays run away with you - sit down together, put pen to paper and come up with a shortlist of fun things to do which everyone can enjoy. Luckily, with lots to do right here on our very doorstep, you don’t even have to go far. Here are a few ideas to get you started…
Go swimming
Many of my fondest childhood memories were those spent at our local outdoor swimming pool. It was a place to catch up with old friends, make new ones, perfect dives and practise dance routines; the fun was endless!
Pells Pool, Lewes – 15 miles from Hurst
Pells Pool is the oldest documented freshwater, outdoor, public swimming pool in the UK. There’s a paddling pool for younger kids, a tree lined lawn and a snack bar. The queues are infamous so, unless you head down super early, be prepared for a long wait – they operate a one in / one out policy.
If you don’t have access to a car, you can catch the train from Hassocks or hop on the 273, where you will find links from Brighton.
The Triangle, Burgess Hill – 2 miles from Hurst
I recently found out that in the summer the Triangle strips off its winter coat to reveal a fully-fledged, heated, outdoor swimming pool!
Full Story available on pages 22/23.
Go to the beach
With the coast almost a stone’s throw away, we have the beauty of not having to endure too many ‘are we there yet,’ – so make the most of it! Splashing in the surf, walks along the promenade, people watching, collecting shells and stones; the seaside has a timeless allure that appeals to kids of all ages.
Brighton & Hove – 10 miles from Hurst
If you like to be in the hustle and bustle, or you have older kids to entertain, then Brighton pier is your best bet. If that doesn’t float your boat or you fancy somewhere a little quieter, then West Hove is a better option - if you’re lucky, you will even find the odd bit of sand. You can get there by car in around 20 mins, catch the train from Hassocks or jump on the 273 towards Brighton.
Camber Sands, East Sussex - 58 miles from Hurst
If you’re up for venturing further afield in search of sandier shores, then Camber Sands is well worth the drive. There are miles of unspoilt, golden sand dunes to explore and if you fancy a bit of culture on top of that, then the medieval town of Rye is a few miles from the beach. You can get there by picking up the A27 towards Eastbourne.
