Looking for a family day out near Eastbourne that’ll keep the kids happy rain or shine? Knockhatch Adventure Park, just north of the town near Hailsham, packs rides, animals, water play and acres of indoor and outdoor fun into one 80-acre site. Open all year round, it’s one of the top family days out in Sussex. Here’s what to expect.
Rides and attractions
Knockhatch is bursting with things to do. There’s a great range of indoor and outdoor rides suited to all ages, from gentle spins on the Quad-a-pillar and Honey Pot Bears to the Dino Drop tower and Dino Safari simulator for braver adventurers. Younger children can drive a tractor or dig in the construction area, while older ones tackle the Sherlock Holmes Experience, the Runaway Train simulator and more. A handful of activities — go-karts, mini-quads and bungee trampolines — carry a small extra charge, but there’s more than enough included to fill a full day.
Animals and owl displays
Alongside the rides, Knockhatch has a lovely animal side. The Jungle Kingdom is home to meerkats, coatis, mongoose, otters, prairie dogs, ring-tailed lemurs, tortoises and colourful, chatty macaws and cockatoos, while the farm trail lets little ones get close to and feed wallabies, llamas, alpacas, goats and farm favourites. A daily highlight is the owl and birds-of-prey display, where you can watch the birds swoop overhead, and keeper-led animal encounters offer a chance to learn more and get a closer look. The animals are more of a fun added extra than a full zoo experience — but they’re a real hit with children.
Local tip: If your family loves animals, pair a Knockhatch visit with nearby Drusillas Park on another day — Drusillas leans more towards the zoo, while Knockhatch is stronger on rides, play and splashing about.
Water and play areas
This is where Knockhatch really shines for burning off energy. In warmer months, the Jungle Splash water play area — with its fountains, gushers and giant waterfall — and the Wave Runner slide and Pirate’s Cove paddling pool are a soaking-wet delight (bring swimmers and a towel). On dry land there’s the magnificent Dragon Castle wooden playground, giant jumping pillows, a boating lake, crazy golf and adventure play. Crucially for the British weather, four indoor play barns — including the huge three-floor Froggies soft play and the dino-themed Lost World Playbarn — mean the fun carries on whatever the skies are doing, making it a brilliant rainy-day option.
Visiting and getting there
Knockhatch is just off the A22 near Hailsham, around nine miles north of Eastbourne and an easy 20-minute drive with plenty of on-site parking. Without a car, the nearest station is Polegate, a few miles away, with a taxi to finish the journey, or a limited local bus service on certain days. The park is open all year (closed only over Christmas and New Year), and pre-booking tickets online usually saves money.
Good to know: Ticket prices vary by day, and on quieter off-peak days some attractions (such as the water slide and boating lake) may be closed. Check the Knockhatch website’s “what’s open” page and book ahead for the day you’re visiting to be sure everything you want is running.
Knockhatch Adventure Park: FAQs
Where is Knockhatch Adventure Park?
Just off the A22 near Hailsham, about nine miles north of Eastbourne — roughly a 20-minute drive.
Is Knockhatch good for a rainy day?
Yes — with four indoor play barns including a huge soft play centre, there’s plenty to do under cover, making it a great all-weather family option.
What ages is it suitable for?
It’s aimed at families with children, with rides, play areas and activities designed for a range of ages, from toddlers to older kids.
Do I need to book in advance?
Booking online ahead of your visit usually saves money, and it lets you pick a day when all the attractions you want are open — some are closed on quieter off-peak days.
More family fun: the zoo and rides at Drusillas Park, ideas for Eastbourne with kids, and things to do on a rainy day.