Recreation Ground

For generations, this has been fondly known as the ‘Rec’. And of all the recs in the country, this one is a strong contender for the finest view. From its centre point, you can see a huge sweep of the South Downs from Chanctonbury Ring to Butser Hill (around 30 miles), along with the winding Rother Valley below. Farmland and forests stretch off in all directions, making for a view which probably isn’t much changed today from the one seen by villagers in the 1800s. 

 

Ever since the land was gifted to the Parish by the Leconfield Estate for ‘recreation’, it has been the beating heart of the outdoor life of the village. Sports have dominated, including Tillington’s famous cricket club, but it has also been the venue for countless village fetes, commemorative events, firework parties and a huge 2012 London Olympic celebration.

 

These days the rec is available for hire, with or without its refurbished pavilion. In fact, those looking for a more active day out can also hire the two adjacent tennis courts (please mention this in your booking request if you are interested). Hire can be made by anyone, whether parishioner or visitor. This means you can host anything, from a small party for energetic children to an exclusive marquee wedding, all with some of the best views in Sussex, in the knowledge that your partying will only be disturbing the sheep or horses who sometimes graze the southern field.