Starting from The Jolly Tanners Pub in Staplefield, this 10.3-km circular trail near Haywards Heath is perfect for hiking, running, and walking. It’s a moderately challenging route that takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete, with minimal foot traffic. Best visited between January and September, the trail offers a variety of landscapes, from woodlands and farmlands to scenic views of Lake Hart and the Ouse. As you enjoy the wildlife and beautiful surroundings, be mindful of rough sections, especially in wet conditions, and stay alert on the roads.
Our stroll starts from the car park of The Jolly Tanners pub. From the car park turn left in front of the pub and walk along the pavement on the left hand side of the road.
Continue ahead beneath the tall pine trees and pass the telephone kiosk. Just after the village sign turn left into Brantridge Lane and, keeping to the left, pass through the lychgate to enter the churchyard.
Leave the churchyard by the gate besides the village primary school and returning to the lane turn left. At the end of the pavement cross to the right side of the lane and as you approach the Z bend sign look to your right and admire the new ‘hedge lane’ – the work of the local conservation group. There is also now an attractive lily pond a little way ahead on the left. On reaching Heron & Jasmine Cottages fork right up the broad track to pass in front of the houses onto Rose Cottage Lane. Here turn right and follow the lane down to the main road.
Our stroll, however, continues by crossing the main road carefully and turning left for about 50 metres to a concrete track leading off to the right to Little Ashfold Farm. There is a metal footpath sign confirming the right of way. Walk down the track to pass to the right of the farmhouse.
Where the drive finally swings left continue ahead following the public footpath fingerpost on a broad grassy track between tall trees. After a delightful small pond on your left, pass through the kissing gate to your right and turn right to follow the hedge line. Continue walking uphill back towards the village and at the top of the rise pass besides a stile onto a broad farm track, which leads to the village green.
Turn half left to pass behind the cricket pavilion and then right to return to the welcoming sight of The Jolly Tanners.
A visit to Nymans is always a delight, especially when combined with a leisurely walk through the stunning gardens and scenic woodlands.
Stroll through the beautiful gardens bursting with colourful flowers, then meander through the enchanting old ruins of the house, a perfect spot for a photo or two.
Follow the woodland trails leading you through ancient trees and open meadows, with breathtaking views across the Sussex countryside.
Keep an eye out for local wildlife; you might spot a deer or hear the birds singing in the trees.
After a refreshing walk, why not head back to The Jolly Tanners for a well-earned drink and a hearty meal by the fire?
At The Jolly Tanners, we believe that great food starts with great ingredients — and the best ingredients are those that are locally grown, seasonally sourced, and sustainably harvested. That’s why we’ve built our menu around a strong garden-to-plate and farm-to-fork ethos, celebrating everything Sussex has to offer.
Step into our garden, and you’ll find more than just deck chairs and sunshine. We grow a variety of fresh herbs right here on site — from rosemary and thyme to mint and basil — all hand-picked daily by our chefs and used to season your dishes and cocktails with unbeatable freshness. This fresh produce not only adds vibrant flavour but reflects our commitment to field-to-fork dining.
It’s a small detail, but one that makes a world of difference. Whether it’s a fragrant garnish on a summer salad or a finishing touch to your roast, those garden herbs bring flavour straight from soil to serving.
We work closely with Chef’s Farms, based in Sussex, to source our seasonal fruit and vegetables. Their commitment to quality and sustainability means we can offer dishes that evolve with the seasons — from bright summer tomatoes to hearty winter roots — all grown just a stone’s throw away.
When it comes to meat, we’re proud to work with a selection of trusted local suppliers to bring you the very best of Sussex.
Trenchmore Farm, known for its beautifully marbled Sussex Wagyu and regenerative farming methods, supplies us with premium beef that’s a standout on our menu.
Woodhouse Butchers and Handcross Butchers, both located in neighbouring villages, provide us with top-quality, locally sourced meats — from pork and lamb to sausages and poultry — ensuring traceability, freshness, and flavour in every bite.
To toast your meal, we offer a carefully curated selection of English sparkling wines, featuring bottles from High Weald, Bolney, and Ridgeview Wine Estates — all celebrated vineyards right here in Sussex. Whether it’s a celebration or a casual drink in the garden, these local bubbles add the perfect touch.
To toast your meal, we offer a carefully curated selection of English sparkling wines, featuring bottles from High Weald, Bolney, and Ridgeview Wine Estates — all celebrated vineyards right here in Sussex. Whether it’s a celebration or a casual drink in the garden, these local bubbles add the perfect touch.
At The Jolly Tanners, our commitment to local sourcing goes beyond just herbs and meats. We proudly use JJ Cocoa, based in Hassocks, for all our locally sourced chocolates, adding rich, Sussex-made indulgence to our desserts and treats.
By supporting local farms and suppliers, we’re not just cutting down food miles — we’re building relationships, celebrating Sussex’s rich food heritage, and sharing the freshest, most flavourful dishes with you.
So whether you’re tucking into a burger, a salad, or one of our homemade desserts, you can taste the difference that truly local sourcing makes.
Book your table and experience our Sussex-sourced, proudly plated food — straight from our garden, fields, and neighbours to you.
Tucked away in the picturesque village of Staplefield and surrounded by the rolling Sussex countryside, our newly opened pub is a modern twist on a timeless classic — where traditional warmth meets contemporary charm.
We’ve lovingly reimagined the space, giving the building a fresh lick of paint in warm, tonal colours that make it feel instantly inviting. At the heart of the transformation is our stunning new orangery — a bright, open extension perfect for long lunches, relaxed evenings, and everything in between. And when the sun’s out? Our large south-facing garden is the place to be.
Alfresco Dining & Drinks, Reimagined. Just in time for summer, we’ve launched our Garden Kitchen, serving up a relaxed seasonal menu full of flavour and flair. Nearby, you’ll find our converted drinks trolley ‘The Jolly Trolley’ — now your go-to for refreshing summer tipples, from Picantes and Espresso Martinis to crisp Rosé and the ultimate Aperol Spritz.
Whether you’re joining us for a spontaneous afternoon drink or a celebratory meal, we’ve created spaces for everyone — including private dining areas upstairs, ideal for intimate events, work meetings, or small family gatherings. And yes, we’ve made sure the kids are more than catered for too, with entertainment areas designed to keep them happy while you relax.
Meet the Chef: At the helm of our kitchen is the incredibly talented Head Chef Mark Charker, who, alongside his brilliant team, has curated a seasonal, locally sourced menu built around a true farm-to-table ethos. Think open ciabattas, vibrant super green salads, hearty burgers, BBQ roasts and show-stopping desserts created by our in-house pastry chef.
Even the children’s menu is designed with care — seasonal, nutritious, and full of variety for even the pickiest eaters. Our homemade ice lollies were a massive hit at our Summer Menu launch, and we’ve got plenty more summer treats planned.
What’s On This Summer? We’re all about bringing the community together, and this summer we’ve got a packed calendar of family-friendly events. Expect live music, face painting, and more at our weekend gatherings, as well as midweek specials like Seafood & Sparkling — with our three-day lobster showcase taking centre stage.
Keep an eye on our events page and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates and booking info. There’s so much more to come — and we can’t wait to welcome you.
