At 33 hectares, this is the largest green site in Burgess Hill. Owned by Mid Sussex District Council, it lies at the north east of the town. It is signposted from Maple Drive and Valebridge Road.
There are 7 meadows set in ancient woodlands, with a great profusion of wildlife, including the protected Hazel Dormouse.
Wildflowers are abundant, so much so that the Millennium Seedbank and High Weald Landscape Trust both harvest seeds here. Wildflower meadows like these are becoming increasingly rare in the U K, with only about 3% of their original number surviving today.
The River Adur and a large Mill Pond run along the northern boundary, with the London – Brighton railway along the eastern side.
There are a few smaller ponds, as well as a fenced Dipping Pond, complete with platform, which is frequently booked by children’s groups and schools.
This beautiful site is regularly enjoyed both by local residents and by visitors from further afield.
Much of the western border of Bedelands is unfenced, being a continuation of the ancient woodland found on the reserve proper. This land extends west to Freeks Lane. It is privately owned and there are actually NO public rights of way across this area (see local Ordnance Survey Map).
Bedelands itself is crossed by several public rights of way and is always open.
Leaky woody dams
