The Organic Farm Near East Grinstead That Feels Like Stepping Back in Time

In a world of supermarket aisles, self-service checkouts and food travelling thousands of miles before reaching our plates, one local farm is offering something increasingly rare – a chance to see exactly where your food comes from.

Tucked away on the edge of Ashdown Forest near Sharpthorne, Plaw Hatch Farm has quietly become one of the area’s most remarkable hidden gems. While many local residents know it as a farm shop, visitors are often surprised to discover that it is so much more than that.

Spread across 200 acres of countryside, the community-owned biodynamic farm has been producing food for local people for around 40 years. Unlike many modern farming operations, Plaw Hatch follows a traditional mixed-farming approach where every part of the farm works together, creating a sustainable cycle of food production.

Visitors can see dairy cows, sheep, pigs, beef cattle and laying hens, alongside extensive vegetable gardens and polytunnels producing seasonal fruit and vegetables. The farm operates an open-door policy, allowing people to walk around and gain a genuine understanding of how food is grown, reared and produced.

One of the biggest attractions is the farm shop itself. Much of what is grown and produced on the farm is sold directly to customers, including vegetables, meat, dairy products, cheeses, yoghurts and eggs. The shop also supports a range of local organic producers, making it a popular destination for shoppers looking for fresh, locally sourced food.

For many visitors, the dairy is a particular point of interest. The farm is known for producing raw milk, cream, yoghurt and cheeses, all made using milk from its own herd. The emphasis on traditional production methods and high animal welfare standards has helped build a loyal customer base from across Sussex and beyond.

Another unexpected highlight is the Coffee Barn. Housed in a converted horsebox, it has become something of a local favourite. Visitors can enjoy freshly made coffee, homemade cakes and pastries while taking in views of the surrounding countryside. During the colder months, blankets, sheepskins and heaters help create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.

What makes Plaw Hatch Farm particularly special is that it offers an experience that’s becoming increasingly difficult to find. Rather than simply buying food, visitors can see the complete journey from field to plate. Families, food enthusiasts and those interested in sustainable agriculture often spend hours exploring the farm and learning more about how their food is produced.

As interest in local food, sustainability and supporting independent businesses continues to grow, places like Plaw Hatch Farm are attracting more attention from people who want a closer connection to the food they eat and the businesses they support.

Of course, Plaw Hatch Farm is just one of many outstanding independent businesses helping make East Grinstead, Sharpthorne and the surrounding villages such wonderful places to live and visit.

From farm shops and local producers to restaurants, retailers, professional services and visitor attractions, there are hundreds of businesses across the area that deserve to be discovered.

If you’re looking for more hidden gems, local attractions or trusted businesses, our directory is packed with ideas and recommendations to help you explore everything the area has to offer.

Browse our directory today and discover the local businesses that are helping our community thrive.

Author: admin