RECENT TWINNING ACTIVITIES
Regular Group Activities Include:
Kaffeeklatsch (chat in German) - weekly in the Bent Arms, Lindfield
Cafe Chat in French – every Friday, 10am at Francisco Lounge
Beginners' French Class – weekly on Tuesdays (currently full)
French Language Groups / Talks
Film Nights
Yearly Trips to Bondue & Traunstein
Everyone in the community is welcome to all activities. Any level of French or German speaking is encouraged.
Mid-Sussex Franco-British Society
The Twinning Association is closely linked with the Mid-Sussex Franco-British Society, who also run their own local activities. Their programme can be found on their website:
Town Mayor Welcomes Traunstein Exchange Students to Haywards Heath
In September 2025, the Mayor of Haywards Heath was delighted to welcome a group of exchange students from our twin town of Traunstein. During their visit to the Town Hall, the students learned about the structure of local government and the important role of the Mayor within our community.
TOWN TWINNING
Find out more about Haywards Heath Twinning here.
Haywards Heath is one of the many towns in Great Britain with twinning links in Europe. We are proudly twinned with Bondues in Northern France and Traunstein, a town in the south-eastern part of Bavaria, Germany.
Together with the Town Council, the Haywards Heath Twinning Association promotes and fosters good connections and friendly relations between the townspeople of Haywards Heath, Bondues and Traunstein. Our communities benefit from regular exchange visits, and various social and cultural events and activities. Membership of Haywards Heath Twinning is open to all residents in Haywards Heath and the surrounding area.
BONDUES
Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Northern France, Bondues is a charming town with a rich cultural spirit. Just 7km from the Belgian border, 5km from the vibrant city of Lille, and only a short 1.5-hour journey from Calais, it’s perfectly placed for both relaxation and adventure.
Bondues is alive with cultural events throughout the year, from theatre and live music to art exhibitions and community festivals. History lovers can explore its fascinating museum and historic fortress, while sports enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy – including excellent facilities and a beautiful golf course.
Haywards Heath proudly twinned with Bondues in 1998, and since then our friendship has flourished through countless exchange visits, shared celebrations, and lasting connections.
TRAUNSTEIN
Set in the heart of the stunning Chiemgau region of Bavaria, Traunstein is a vibrant town perfectly placed between Munich and Salzburg. Just 15km north of the majestic Alps, 11km east of the sparkling Lake Chiemsee, and 30km west of Salzburg, it offers breathtaking scenery and a rich cultural heritage.
Traunstein is renowned for its lively markets, welcoming shops, and traditional breweries. The town hosts many cultural events, the most famous being the historic St George’s Ride and Sword Dance, held every Easter Monday – a tradition that draws visitors from far and wide.
Haywards Heath twinned with Traunstein in 1993, and over the years countless friendships have blossomed through exchange visits, celebrations, and shared cultural experiences that continue to enrich both our communities.