Cross In Hand Village News

WINE TASTING FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20

In conjunction with Heathfield and Waldron Rugby Club. Wine Tasting Evening - hosted by Hidden Spring Vineyard. Join us for a brilliant night of wine tasting; tickets coming soon!  Friday 20th November 19:30-21:30.

BEACON DOWN NEWS

Autumn events at Beacon Down

Welcome to our October update, which starts with news of our fantastic harvest! 2026 was a brilliant year for the vineyard with over 25 tonnes of grapes picked, all before the start of October - something we have never seen before. All the grapes are pressed and in tank in the winery, starting their fermentations on their journey to becoming wine!

Now that harvest is over we can turn our attention to some exciting events and offers coming up at the vineyard over the next few months - see below for details.

We are also continuing our in-depth tour and tastings in October and November at the vineyard - we would love to welcome you and show you around the vineyard with its beautiful autumn colours and the winery, all full with the 2026 harvest. Tours can be booked via the button below!

Now that the cafe is up and running, if you are thinking of a small gathering or event, we would be more than happy to discuss hire options. We can offer light lunches, afternoon teas, or just drinks for a range of occasions in our cafe space which includes a lovely mezzanine level overlooking the vines.

And remember if you can’t get to see us we can ship our wine nationwide - we always have great deals on cases of wine - with options for both 3 and 6 bottles.

METALSMITHS

We will be shutting down the shop and workshop next Saturday October 31.  So, there are only 4 days left to purchase some beautiful jewellery at amazing prices. Phil and Niki will be dismantling the workshop and rebuilding it at our new purpose-built premises.  We're hoping to be operational again in December. So please watch this space for more details. Thank you again to all our wonderful customers who have supported us over the 30+ years we've been in business.

DARCH’S WOOD

Good to see the multiple streams that flow through the wood are full again. The little waterfall to the right of the main path is also flowing. Congratulations are overdue to volunteers who have braved recent storms to help keep the woodland clear and accessible for all of us. We are so lucky to have this wonderful stretch of woodland on our doorsteps. Can it be designated ‘ancient woodland?’ – possibly not, but from the height of some of the trees, much of the cover must date back at least 200 years. There is one magnificent, ancient beech tree near the end of the left-hand path before it descends the steps and swoops round to return uphill to the pond. It has many initials engraved into its bark. From its girth I would guess it must reach its 400th birthday soon? If not perhaps someone can put me right.

ADMINISTRATOR FOR MEDICAL CAR SERVICE

Age Concern Heathfield & District provide a Medical Car Service to take the elderly and disabled to any medically related appointment. They also have a minibus service which takes clients on regular trips to luncheon clubs and shopping. They arrange outings throughout the month, and also operate a Men’s shed. They now seek an Administrator for their Medical Car Service.  

Can you help them? Contact To apply online OR to register your interest, see: https://wealdenvolunteering.org.uk/.../apply-to-be-a.../