Located in Hailsham, East Sussex, Knockhatch Ski Centre is one of the South East’s most innovative outdoor dry slope facilities. Established in 2001, the centre is distinguished by its advanced ‘Play Grass’ (or Ski Grass) surfacing, a continuous carpet system with no gaps or holes.
This design significantly reduces the risk of injury and provides a cushioned, “snow-like” feel that is vastly superior to traditional grid matting.
Whether you’re a local enthusiast or a family looking for a safe environment to learn to ski, Knockhatch offers a welcoming, mist-lubricated setting for all.
The main slope provides a generous space for technical progression, while the dedicated nursery area ensures beginners can build confidence away from faster traffic.
With a vertical drop of 100ft, the terrain is challenging enough for experienced riders to maintain their edge control while remaining accessible for those just starting out.
The combination of its forgiving surface and expert coaching makes it one of the premier locations in Sussex for mastering piste etiquette before heading to the mountains.
KEY INFORMATION
- Address: Hailsham Bypass, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 3GD
- Phone: 01323 442051
- Email: [email protected]
- Website:knockhatchskischool.com
- Socials: Facebook
GETTING THERE
Knockhatch Ski Centre is situated directly off the A22 Hailsham Bypass. It is approximately a 20-minute drive from Eastbourne and 45 minutes from Brighton. The centre is clearly signposted from the main road and offers extensive free on-site parking for all visitors.
SLOPE DETAILS
The facility features three distinct zones designed for progressive skill building:
- Main Slope: 110 metres (360ft) long with a 100ft vertical drop for intermediate/advanced use.
- Nursery Slope: A 30-metre gentle area dedicated to absolute beginners.
- Tubing Run: A separate, dedicated lane specifically for Ringo/tubing activities.
- Skill Level: All levels, from first-timers to confident racers.
LIFTS
- 2 x Drag Lifts: These platter-style lifts serve the main slope, providing reliable uphill transport and allowing for high-repetition training during open practice.
SNOW / SURFACE
The centre uses Play Grass/Ski Grass, a modern continuous surface. Because it has no holes, it prevents broken fingers and equipment snags. The surface is backed with a soft cushioning layer to absorb the impact of falls and is continuously mist-lubricated to ensure a smooth, fast glide that mimics groomed snow.
FEATURES & FACILITIES
On-Slope
- Open Tubing: 30-minute supervised sessions for ages 4 and up.
- Specialized Clubs: Thursday Snowboarding and Friday Skiing clubs for social progression.
- Race Training: Graduated slopes suitable for building speed and technical turns.
Off-Slope
- Indoor Seating: Comfortable areas to rest between sessions.
- Snacks & Drinks: On-site refreshments available for participants and spectators.
- Full Equipment Hire: Skis, snowboards, boots, and helmets are included in the price.
OPENING TIMES
- Monday – Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday – Friday: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
PRICES
Last Updated: May 3, 2026
Online booking rates are lower than “Pay on Arrival” fees.
| Session Type | Online Rate | Pay on Arrival |
| Peak Open Practice | £20.00 | £25.00 |
| Off-Peak Practice | £15.00 | £25.00 |
| Peak Family Pass | £70.00 | – |
| Off-Peak Family Pass | £50.00 | – |
| Open Tubing (30 Mins) | £7.50 | – |
LESSONS & COURSES
- Full Day Child Camp: £49.50 per day (Ages 9–14).
- Private Lessons (1 Participant): £100.00.
- Group Private (5 Participants): £220.00.
- Beginner Lessons: Highly recommended if you do not yet meet the minimum competency standards for the main slope.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
- Quietest: Wednesday and Thursday evenings (6:00 PM) typically offer the most space for uninterrupted practice.
- Busy Periods: Weekend afternoons are peak times for family tubing and junior lessons.
PLANNING YOUR VISIT
- Minimum Requirements: Open Practice is unsupervised. You must be able to control your speed, link turns, and use the lifts safely. If you aren’t ready, please book a lesson first.
- Timing: Arrive 30 minutes early for equipment fitting.
- Safety Note: Anyone unable to meet the minimum safety standard may be asked to leave the slope without a refund to ensure the safety of other riders.
WHAT TO BRING
- Gloves: Mandatory and not provided. You must bring your own.
- Full Coverage: Long-sleeved tops and full-length trousers are required at all times.
- Change of Clothes: The misting system is active to keep the slope slick, so you may get wet!
- Socks: High-calf socks for boot comfort.
HOW TO BOOK
All sessions, especially the popular Open Tubing (capped at 20 people), should be booked via the Knockhatch Ski School website for the best rates. For lesson enquiries, call 01323 442051.
WHO IT’S BEST FOR
- Safety-Conscious Beginners: The hole-free surface is much less intimidating than traditional dry slopes.
- Families: With tubing and child day camps, it is a top-tier weekend destination for kids.
- Budget Riders: The off-peak online rates offer some of the best value skiing in East Sussex.
FAQs
Is “Play Grass” better than a normal dry slope?
Many skiers find it superior because it has no holes, meaning no risk of catching a finger or a pole tip. It is also softer to fall on and stays cooler thanks to the misting system.
Do I need a lesson if I have skied before?
If you can link turns and use a Poma lift, you can skip the lessons and head straight to open practice. However, staff may perform a quick competency check for safety.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Skiing and snowboarding at Knockhatch continue in almost all weather conditions. Since the slope is already mist-lubricated, a bit of rain often makes the surface even faster and more enjoyable to ride on.
Can I bring my own equipment?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own skis or board, but the price remains the same as hire is included. Ensure your equipment is clean and the edges are free of burrs to protect the Play Grass surface.
COMPARISON LINE
Compared to other UK dry slopes, Knockhatch offers a significantly more modern and forgiving surface that eliminates the “cheese-grater” effect of traditional matting, making it ideal for those who value safety and comfort.
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LAST UPDATED: May 3, 2026