Things To Do
in Ifield
Ifield is a tranquil suburb in the Crawley borough of West Sussex, England, located just inland from Gatwick Airport. It blends village charm with easy access to larger towns and green spaces, making it a popular base for travelers and locals alike. The area features leafy streets, a few historic landmarks, and scenic ponds like Ifield Mill Pond that invite relaxed strolls.
With frequent rail and road links to nearby towns, Ifield balances countryside calm with convenient connections to the South East.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Ifield Village, admiring the charming historic buildings and quaint streets. Visit the local coffee shop to enjoy a traditional English breakfast accompanied by a freshly brewed cup of tea. Spend some time at the Ifield Village Conservation Area, taking in the natural beauty and tranquility of the surroundings.
After lunch, head to the nearby Ifield Golf Club for a round of golf or a casual walk in the lush green spaces. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the local history by visiting the Ifield Water Mill, where you can learn about traditional milling techniques. Enjoy some light shopping in the local boutiques, discovering unique artisanal products and crafts.
As the sun sets, find a cozy pub for dinner, sampling classic British cuisine with a modern twist. Engage with locals and enjoy live music or quiz night, experiencing the warm community spirit. Finish your evening with a peaceful walk through the village, taking in the stars and the serene nighttime atmosphere.
Start your day early and take a short trip to Crawley, where you can explore the bustling town center. Enjoy breakfast at a local café before heading to the County Mall Shopping Centre for some retail therapy. Don't miss the impressive shops and vibrant market stalls offering various goods.
Afterward, visit the Crawley Museum and Gallery to learn about the town's history and culture. Enjoy a picnic in the nearby Goffs Park, where you can relax or take a leisurely walk around the scenic grounds. As afternoon slips into evening, consider visiting the Crawley Town Hall for some local events or performances.
Finish your day with a dinner at one of Crawley's trendy restaurants, featuring cuisine from around the world. Enjoy a nightcap at a local bar, where you can mingle and meet new friends. You may even catch a live band or entertainment, adding a vibrant end to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Cup of coffee in a café | $3-6 |
| 🥗Lunch for one at a mid-range restaurant | $12-22 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Gatwick Airport and London via rail
- Green spaces and village charm
- Good value for money in the Crawley area
- Family-friendly with easy day trips to the coast
- Limited nightlife within Ifield
- Smaller village feel may require travel for more dining options
- Traffic around key junctions and near the airport can be busy
- Accommodation options are concentrated in nearby Crawley and towns
Places to Visit in Ifield
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil water feature framed by willows—best at sunrise or golden hour for still reflections.
A large urban lake within Tilgate Park offering boats, wooded edges, and vibrant wildlife.
Modern architecture with reflections on shopfronts and street lighting after sunset.
Plane spotters can capture arrivals and departures with the airport backdrop.
Food in Ifield
Ifield Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Sussex dessert—a suet crust with a rich treacle center that sets like a pudding when cut.
Must-Try!
Classic seaside-influenced takeaway fare widely available in nearby towns.
Scones with clotted cream and jam, best enjoyed with a pot of tea.
A hearty meat pie featuring regional meats and seasonal veg.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market in the nearby town centre offering fresh produce, bakery goods, and ready-to-eat snacks on certain days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue patiently in shops and at bus stops; UK etiquette emphasizes fairness and spacing.
Say please and thank you; gentle conversation is appreciated in pubs and cafés.
Keep noise moderate in residential areas; keep to the left on pavements and staircases.
Safety
Tipping in Ifield
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; rounding up a bill or leaving 10-15% for table service is common when service charge is not included.
Cash and card payments are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with blooming countryside; good for walks and outdoor photography.
Long daylight hours; chances of warm, dry days but occasional showers; ideal for park visits and outdoor markets.
Golden foliage and crisp air; great for landscapes and wildlife photography.
Cool and damp; occasional frost; indoor attractions like cafés and museums are good weather alternatives.
Ifield at Night
Hiking in Ifield
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic walking and cycling route along an old railway line linking Crawley to Horley.
Rural trails around Gatwick’s fringe with hedges and wildlife.
Loop trails around Tilgate Park’s lakes and woodland areas.
Airports
How to reach Ifield by plane.
Less than 20 miles from Ifield; connections by train, bus, or car are straightforward.
Approximately 40-60 miles away; convenient for long-haul connections with domestic travel by road or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households with children; family-friendly services and parks.
Many residents commute to London, Brighton, or Gatwick for work.
Diverse communities with a mix of backgrounds, contributing to multicultural dining options.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Located across clubs and pitches in Crawley and surrounding towns.
Local cricket clubs and friendly matches in parks during summer.
Rugby union teams and social leagues in the wider Sussex region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ifield.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in pubs and cafés; look for veggie curries, pastas, and vegetarian mains, and ask for dairy-free options if needed.