With Gatwick airport located in the north-east of the county, West Sussex is a very well connected region, both to London and further afield. Crawley, near Gatwick, is a popular commuter town, with trains to London Victoria taking just 47 minutes. Schools in the area are also very high-performing, and with beautiful Georgian cities, stunning castles, and port towns offering everything from thatched cottages to new builds, it is a destination in its own right. Visit the ruins of Cowdrey Castle, explore South Downs National Park, and enjoy dinner in a beautiful eatery, and you might just decide to out down some roots in West Sussex.
Arundel is a historic market town in West Sussex, celebrated for its impressive Norman castle and striking skyline dominated by the spires of Arundel Cathedral. Set on the banks of the River Arun and nestled within the South Downs National Park, Arundel is renowned for its blend of medieval charm, rural beauty, and vibrant cultural life.
Billingshurst is a large village situated in the heart of West Sussex, about six miles south-west of Horsham and close to the South Downs National Park. This historic settlement has roots dating back to the Old English period and has grown steadily into a well-connected residential hub that blends village tradition with access to countryside and commuter convenience. Its High Street is lined with period cottages, independent shops, cafés, and essential amenities, offering everyday life at a gentler pace while still being within easy reach of larger towns.
Bognor Regis is a quintessential English seaside town located on the south coast of West Sussex. Originally founded as a fishing village, it has grown into a popular coastal resort, renowned for its expansive shingle and sand beaches, mild microclimate, and the traditional pier that stretches out into the English Channel. The town’s maritime identity is central, with its long promenade, historic bandstand, and proximity to the South Downs National Park.
Burgess Hill is a thriving town located in West Sussex, situated on the edge of the South Downs National Park and offering a blend of urban convenience and countryside charm. Its location just 10 miles north of Brighton and close to Haywards Heath gives residents excellent access to both coastal and rural Sussex, as well as efficient links to London. Historically, Burgess Hill developed as a brick-making centre in the Victorian era, marked by rapid expansion and the establishment of several notable residential areas.
Chichester is a historic cathedral city situated in the heart of West Sussex, celebrated for its Roman origins, rich architectural heritage, and proximity to the South Downs National Park. Nestled between the stunning southern coastline and lush countryside, Chichester offers a blend of cultural vibrancy and relaxed rural living that appeals to a varied population, from professionals and creatives to families and retirees.
Crawley, located in West Sussex, is a large town positioned mid-way between the vibrant coast of Brighton and the global city of London. Crawley is perhaps best known as the urban neighbour of Gatwick Airport, providing a cosmopolitan influence alongside its own rich local character. The town has a fascinating blend of New Town heritage, modern development, and a variety of amenities, making it a sought-after base for commuters, families, and professionals.
East Grinstead sits in the northeast of West Sussex, close to the borders of Surrey and Kent. It is renowned for its historic High Street, featuring half-timbered buildings that date as far back as the 14th century, lending the town a distinct character and a strong sense of heritage. The town provides a blend of period charm and modern living, making it attractive to a diverse range of residents.
Hassocks is a large village situated in West Sussex, nestled just to the north of the South Downs National Park. Known for its striking views towards the South Downs, the area is prized for its proximity to open countryside as well as convenient access to Brighton and London. Hassocks is surrounded by picturesque villages such as Ditchling and Hurstpierpoint, and is well-regarded for its blend of rural charm and suburban convenience.
Haywards Heath, set in the heart of Mid Sussex, is a popular and well-established commuter town known for its convenient access to London and the South Coast. Situated approximately halfway between London and Brighton, it has developed a distinctive identity shaped by its Victorian roots and ongoing growth. Over recent decades, Haywards Heath has expanded significantly, blending attractive period properties with modern developments and leafy suburban enclaves.
Henfield is a charming, historic village located in the heart of West Sussex, approximately 11 miles northwest of Brighton. Nestled at the edge of the South Downs National Park and surrounded by open countryside, Henfield boasts a rich heritage dating back to Saxon times and features many period buildings and a picturesque High Street. The area is highly regarded for its friendly community, thriving local events, and scenic surroundings that appeal to families, retirees, and those seeking a slower pace of life outside the city.
Horsham is a historic market town set in the picturesque county of West Sussex, nestled between the High Weald and the South Downs. Renowned for its medieval heritage, attractive high street, and welcoming community spirit, Horsham perfectly balances town convenience with rural charm. Characterised by a blend of period architecture, leafy parks, and modern amenities, the area appeals to a broad spectrum of residents, including families, professionals, and retirees.
Lancing is a coastal village and civil parish situated in the county of West Sussex, on the south coast of England. Nestled between Worthing and Shoreham-by-Sea, Lancing is renowned for its long shingle beaches, the beauty of the nearby South Downs, and its blend of seaside and rural charm. The area is a popular choice for a wide range of residents, from families and commuters to retirees, who are drawn by its scenic surroundings and close-knit community feel.
Littlehampton is a coastal town nestled on the southern coast of West Sussex, renowned for its award-winning beaches and historic harbour. Sitting at the mouth of the River Arun, Littlehampton appeals to a diverse population including families, retirees, and professionals who are drawn by its balance of seaside charm and community amenities. The town is surrounded by natural beauty, with the South Downs National Park to the north and picturesque coastal walks along the English Channel.
Midhurst is a historic market town set in the heart of the South Downs National Park in West Sussex. Known for its picturesque streets, impressive heritage buildings, and surrounding natural beauty, Midhurst offers a tranquil yet vibrant lifestyle that attracts residents from a broad spectrum of backgrounds. The town’s origins stretch back to Medieval times, with Cowdray Park and the atmospheric ruins of Cowdray House lending a unique character to the area. Midhurst’s charming blend of history, independent shops, traditional inns, and scenic surroundings makes it highly appealing for families, retirees, and professionals alike. Its location, roughly midway between Chichester and Haslemere, provides a rural escape that's within comfortable commuting distance of the coast and London.
Petworth is a historic market town in West Sussex, renowned for its rich heritage and striking countryside surroundings nestled within the South Downs National Park. The town is best known for the impressive Petworth House and its sprawling parkland landscaped by Capability Brown, drawing visitors from across the region to explore art collections and curated gardens. Characterised by narrow winding streets, traditional coaching inns, and independent boutiques, Petworth offers an intimate, quintessentially English atmosphere.
Pulborough is a picturesque village nestled in the heart of West Sussex, situated at the convergence of the Rivers Arun and Rother. With its beautiful surrounding countryside, including the nearby South Downs National Park, Pulborough offers an appealing blend of rural tranquillity and historic charm. The area is renowned for its scenic walks, thriving nature reserves, and quintessential English character. Traditional cottages, period homes, and modern developments are all part of Pulborough’s landscape, appealing to families, retirees, and commuters alike.
Shoreham-by-Sea, often referred to simply as Shoreham, sits between the vibrant city of Brighton and the seaside charm of Worthing on England’s south coast. This historic coastal town is known for its scenic riverside setting along the River Adur, its bustling harbour, and a charming high street lined with independent shops, traditional pubs, and cafés. The area seamlessly blends the atmosphere of a working port with picturesque coastal views and a sense of community intrigue shaped by centuries of maritime history.
Steyning is a quintessential English market town set in the foothills of the South Downs National Park in West Sussex. Steeped in centuries of history, with cobbled streets and timber-framed buildings, Steyning is well-known for its period charm and picturesque high street. The area offers a peaceful, close-knit community atmosphere, with a strong sense of heritage reflected in its medieval architecture and historical sites such as St Andrew's Church and the ruins of Bramber Castle nearby.
Worthing is a large seaside town nestled on the southern coast of England in West Sussex, bordering the South Downs National Park and situated between Brighton and Chichester. Known for its classic British seafront, broad pebble beaches, and elegant Victorian architecture, Worthing has evolved from a traditional fishing village into a bustling urban centre with a strong sense of community and an appealing coastal lifestyle.