A guide to Horsham

Did you know?

  • 1.
    The name Horsham is believed to mean either "horse home" or "Horsa's home" (a Saxon warrior who was granted land in the area).
  • 2.
    Horsham was historically known for horse trading in early medieval times, iron and brick making up until the 20th century, brewing more recently, and for its Horsham Stone; a recognisable sandstone naturally occurring in the Weald Clay of south-east England. There are numerous examples in Sussex of Horsham Stone being use as a roofing material, particularly for mills, dovecotes, churches and manor houses.
  • 3.
    Horsham had two weekly markets in the Middle Ages and this tradition continues to this day, with markets taking place in Horsham’s town centre on Thursdays and Saturdays offering a wide range of local produce and award-winning street food.

Horsham Area

Horsham is a commuter town serving London (in just over an hour from Horsham Train Station), Gatwick Airport and the South Coast, and is easily accessible by road. There are also several notable schools in and around the area, making it a popular choice for families.

Surrounding Villages

  • Henfield
    Already a thriving village at the time of the Domesday Book, Henfield lies to the southeast of Horsham and within easy reach of Brighton, the South Coast, the South Downs and the M23. With a busy high street full of shops, pubs and restaurants, there is also a modern village hall, 13th century church and attractive village common. Nearby Woods Mill is the headquarters of the Sussex Wildlife Trust.
  • Storrington
    At the foot of the north side of the South Downs, with about half of the Parish located within the South Downs National Park, this ancient village featured in the Domesday Book. This vibrant village boasts shopping and recreational amenities including a Waitrose supermarket, pubs and cafes, and miles of stunning walks in the surrounding countryside.
  • Rudgwick
    Lying on the border of West Sussex and Surrey, this growing village has an eclectic mix of period and modern properties, including a 12th century church. Amenities include a convenience store, pharmacy, a choice of pubs, a primary school, nursery and the notable Pennthorpe Preparatory School. The A281 provides easy access to both Horsham and Guildford.
  • Wisborough Green
    Wisborough Green lies in the north-west corner of West Sussex with Chichester and Petworth only a short drive away. It is a quintessential English village with a village green, choice of pubs, Parish Church, village shop and Post Office. Amongst various events throughout the year, it plays host to an annual hot air balloon festival, August Bank Holiday fete, a horticultural show in June, as well as regular games of cricket on the village green.
  • Mannings Heath
    Mannings Heath is a delightful village with a great community, situated just under 3 miles to the east of Horsham. Locally there is a village hall, church, cricket club and the superb Mannings Heath Golf Club & Wine Estate offering a choice of two golf courses, the wine estate and The Vinyard Kitchen Restaurant to visit. There are also many country walks and bridle paths in the immediate area, as well as Leonardslee Gardens and the Black Horse Inn which are only short distance away.
  • Staplefield
    Staplefield is situated within the glorious West Sussex countryside, with its pretty village green playing host to cricket in the summer as well as the annual fete and classic car rally. Adjacent to the green are two popular pubs: The Victory and The Jolly Tanners, both offering a choice of real ales and locally sourced food. The National Trust gardens and lakes at Nymans is only a short walk away, and there are many excellent schools in the immediate vicinity.
  • Slinfold
    The sought-after village of Slinfold, with the village church prominently at its heart, is situated about 4 miles to the west of Horsham and boasts a local store, popular pub and CE Primary and Pre-School. It is also home to one of the oldest cricket clubs in Sussex dating back to 1775, a tennis club and Village Concert Band that plays all over Sussex. A short distance away is the Slinfold Park Golf and Country Club.

Lifestyle

  • Shopping

    Horsham has a wealth of shopping opportunities

    With a range of independent shops working alongside several recognisable high street brands, as well as the Swan Walk Shopping Centre.

    Horsham is also home to a number of restaurants, pubs and bakeries, a wide choice of supermarkets, and offers ample parking. On the outskirts of Horsham, you can also find 5-star spa hotels, popular golf courses, and many parks and leisure facilities; providing the lifestyle needs for all the family.

  • Eating

    Restaurant Tristan

    The first Michelin-starred restaurant in Horsham, bringing the old and new together to create exciting innovative dishes.

    South Lodge Hotel

    A luxury hotel offering three restaurants, the Botanica (a Mediterranean inspired spa restaurant), Tom Kemble at The Pass (an award-winning restaurant) and The Camellia (a two AA Rosette winning restaurant).

    Restaurant Interlude at Leonardslee Gardens

    The first vineyard restaurant to win a Michelin Star, offering an ever-changing menu drawing inspiration from the surrounding listed gardens.

    Miller & Carter Steakhouse

    Excellent local steakhouse offering award-winning British and Irish steak.

    La Piazzetta

    An authentic family-owned Italian restaurant using local and seasonal produce.

  • Drinking

    The Black Jug

    Situated close to Horsham Train Station, this pub is the ideal location to enjoy an after work drink, lunch or an evening meal from their daily menu.

    The Dragon Colgate

    Just a short distance from Horsham, this pub serves locally sourced seasonal food in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

    The Green Man

    Set in an idyllic rural setting not far from Horsham, offering fabulous food with a wide choice of drinks with a laid-back atmosphere.

    Bax Castle

    A rustic countryside pub, awarded 'Family Friendly Pub of the Year' for 3-years running.

    The Crabtree

    A family run pub, located in the beautiful Sussex countryside south of Horsham, serving local food, organic wines and fabulous real ales.