Knockhatch Ski & Snowboard School — Local services in Wealden

I was going to Knockhatch Ski & Snowboard Centre with a positive mindset, I have been to dry ski slopes before and even though it takes a while getting used to after snow it's a great stand in to keep oneself somewhat happy while waiting for the winter.

But, I must say it even though I don't wish to be rude, this slope was horrendous. When we got to the top (which was a feat in itself as the lift only had a button every 30 meters) and pushed onto the hill we didn't go anywhere! After a few times we managed to get up some speed, providing we didn't turn at all, but there was still no need to slow down at the bottom as you just slowly ground to a halt.

If you wanted to turn it was nigh impossible as the material was so unpredictable.

It was worse for some of my friends as they were on snowboards, even though the slope was watered it was painful watching them trying to get from the top to the bottom, they were basically jumping on their boards all the way down.

We gave up and left after half an hour.

I felt I had to leave a review as everything I read before going here was so positive, I do agree that the people were really friendly and the ringo slope looked like it would be great fun for kids, but from my experience this can't be skiing. Maybe it would be good for learning the uttermost basics, but even then it seems a bit dangerous to me to learn to ski on this, mainly because I can't see how you can learn to turn and stop safely on this material and if you can't do that properly it potentially makes you a very dangerous skier.

I can only give Knockhatch Ski & Snowboard Centre one star based on my experience, I was looking forward to skiing and in my opinion I didn't get to.

If you are going with kids go ahead, as I said earlier they are very friendly and the ringo slope looked nice, buf if you can already ski, don't...

Great resource for Eastbourne and surrounding areas if you have beginners and need pre holiday lessons. They do an hour taster that will get the basics of boots, bindings and drag lifts out of the way all for £20. You can get 4 one hour group lessons for £85 or go for an hour one on one for £50

Ski servicing is £35 and the ski shop is surprisingly well equipped with a wide range of skis boots and boards from beginner to back country.

Jackets, helmets, gloves, luggage all stocked here.

Easy parking but no links by public transport as far as I'm aware.

If you want to turn up and ski it's a tenner for an hour and they have some small jumps and a quarter pipe if your of a level that a small artificial slope is going to be too tame.

The even gave a groovy little inflatable ring slide...

I was at the slope today, as I was having boots fitted next door. Firstly, what a great setup. Have your boots moulded, then test them on a slope, immediately. The ski school is a different company to the shop next door, but they really should get together for this purpose!

Most importantly, super-nice people. Helpful, friendly and a lovely setup. I was in the area for a boot fitting, and got a September ski in as well!

Only reason I gave four stars instead of 5 is because it's a small slope. Perfect for children - I will be bringing mine the next time I need equipment from the...