Beech Hurst Park Miniature Railway

The little steam engine puffs along its track just outside Hassocks, pulling open-sided carriages through the Sussex countryside. Beech Hurst Park's miniature railway is the sort of thing that sounds twee until you're actually stood there watching it chug past, and then suddenly it's rather good fun.

It's a proper working railway in miniature, not just a static display. The track loops through the park's grounds, giving you a genuine ride rather than a quick spin around a car park. Kids absolutely love it - there's something about being small enough to nearly touch the overhanging branches that makes the journey feel like an adventure. Adults find themselves oddly charmed too, particularly if they've got any nostalgia for model railways or steam.

You're looking at spending a good hour here if you want to do it properly: ride the train, maybe potter about the park itself, grab a tea. It's not a full day's outing, but paired with a walk elsewhere in the area it slots in nicely. The park itself is free to wander, though there'll be a modest charge for the train ride.

If you're camping at Wild Boar Wood or Hook Farm, this makes a decent wet-weather backup or a Sunday afternoon diversion. It's one of those attractions that rewards arriving early, before families pile in at midday. Worth the short drive from Hassocks, especially if you've got children under ten in tow.