Living in Pulborough

Community life in Pulborough centres on participation and tradition. The village is known for its active societies and clubs, such as horticultural, camera, and drama groups, welcoming residents of all ages. Pulborough Village Hall and the Sports & Social Club regularly host markets, craft fairs, and community events.

The area is rich in green spaces: Pulborough Brooks Nature Reserve, managed by the RSPB, is a local highlight drawing birdwatchers and walkers. Miles of footpaths along the River Arun and into the South Downs support an outdoor lifestyle. Annual traditions, such as the Duck Race on the river and the Harvest Fair, are well supported and foster a sense of belonging.

Pulborough is widely regarded as a safe place to live, with relatively low crime rates compared to more urbanised areas in Sussex. The village benefits from an active Neighbourhood Watch and close liaison between residents and the local police force. Minor incidents do occur, but serious crime remains uncommon.

Community initiatives, such as regular police drop-in sessions and local newsletters, help to maintain a sense of safety and vigilance. The rural character of Pulborough contributes to a slower pace of life and low levels of anti-social behaviour, making it especially appealing to families and older residents seeking peace of mind.

Parking in Pulborough is generally straightforward. The village centre has a number of free and pay-and-display public car parks, along with on-street parking that is usually available outside peak times. Resident parking permits are not widely used except in the immediate vicinity of the station and village centre where demand is higher. Many homes have driveways or dedicated off-street spaces.

Pulborough’s road access is excellent for a rural area. The A29 and A283 intersect at Pulborough, providing efficient routes to surrounding towns and towards the South Downs. Traffic congestion is rarely a problem except during school runs or at peak commuter times.

• Horsham – approx. 20 minutes via A29 (12 miles)
• Chichester – approx. 30 minutes via A29/A27 (20 miles)
• Worthing – around 25 minutes via A283 (14 miles)
• Guildford – approx. 50 minutes via A29/A281 (32 miles)

Pulborough may be a rural village, but it offers a rewarding food scene and a variety of places for socialising. Traditional pubs, many with charming gardens and local ales, are a staple: popular names include The White Horse and The Swan Inn, both known for quality food and a lively yet friendly atmosphere. Several local cafés, such as The Courtyard and Tea Room at The Old Bakery, offer great spots for a leisurely coffee and cake.

For dining, a mix of family-run restaurants and takeaways serve classic British fare as well as Italian and Asian cuisine. While Pulborough doesn’t have a nightclub scene, the village hosts regular quiz nights, live music, and wine tastings that bring the community together. For those seeking more energetic nightlife or a varied selection of eateries, nearby towns like Horsham, Arundel, and Petworth offer a broader range of bars, bistros, and gastro pubs.

School Quality: Pulborough attracts families due to its good primary school, proximity to respected secondary schools, and strong community ethos towards education. Children benefit from small class sizes and inclusive learning environments.

Parks and Green Space: With Pulborough Brooks nature reserve and easy access to the South Downs, outdoor recreation and play are a central part of family life. Well-maintained village playgrounds also provide safe spaces for younger children.

Childcare: Local nurseries and after-school clubs are available, with several rated "Good" by Ofsted. Community-run playgroups are popular for preschool children and parents alike.

Safety: Pulborough offers peace of mind thanks to its low crime rates, vigilant community, and safe roads, making it an appealing option for parents looking for a stable upbringing for their children.

Family Activities: From village fetes and sports clubs to outdoor trails and wildlife adventures at the Brooks, Pulborough provides plenty of opportunities for healthy, engaging family activities all year round.

Pulborough is an excellent village for pet owners, especially those with dogs or outdoor pets. The extensive countryside, riverside walks, and easy access to the South Downs create ideal conditions for daily exercise. Pulborough Brooks is renowned for dog-walking, and most footpaths and bridleways around the village are pet-friendly.

Local vets and pet supply shops ensure that animal care is always close at hand. The social nature of the community also means dogs and pets are welcomed in many venues, especially the traditional pubs with large gardens. The general attitude in Pulborough is very pet-positive, with both housing stock and public places commonly accommodating furry companions.

Pulborough boasts strong transport and accessibility, making it a convenient spot for commuters and those wishing to explore the region. The village has its own railway station, positioned on the Arun Valley Line. Regular direct services connect Pulborough to key destinations including London Victoria, making it viable for city workers. Trains also run to Horsham, Bognor Regis, and Portsmouth, linking Pulborough to both coastal and urban hubs.

Bus routes in Pulborough provide connections to local towns, such as Billingshurst, Petworth and Chichester. For drivers, the A29 and A283 run right through the area, providing routes north-south and east-west respectively. Gatwick Airport is around 40 minutes away by car, offering access to international travel. The South Downs Way and local cycle paths make it easy to get around by bike or on foot for the more adventurous.

Estimated commute times:

• London Victoria – approx. 1 hour 15 minutes by train
• Horsham – 20 minutes by train
• Chichester – 30 minutes by car (via A29 and A27)
• Brighton – around 50 minutes by car, or via train changes
• Gatwick Airport – about 40 minutes by car

Pulborough offers a range of educational options for families, from well-regarded primary and secondary schools to access to further education institutions nearby. The area is particularly popular among parents seeking schooling close to nature, with most schools placing importance on outdoor activities.

Primary Schools:

Pulborough Brooks Primary School is the largest primary in the village, providing a friendly educational environment. The most recent Ofsted inspection (2018) rated the school as 'Good'. St Mary’s Church of England Primary School, located in nearby Washington, is another choice, known for its nurturing ethos and community spirit, also rated 'Good' by Ofsted in 2019.

Secondary Schools:

While Pulborough itself doesn’t have a secondary school, it is within the catchment for several respected options. The Weald School in Billingshurst is a popular choice, consistently rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted as of its 2017 report. Steyning Grammar School, located slightly further afield, is known for its strong academic tradition and was rated 'Good' (2019).

Colleges & Sixth Forms:

Youth in Pulborough often go on to attend Collyer’s Sixth Form College in Horsham, a large and highly-regarded post-16 education centre with a history of excellent academic results. Chichester College, to the west, is another accessible further education option, providing academic and vocational pathways.

Universities:

There are no universities in Pulborough. However, the area benefits from good access to several higher education institutions in Sussex, including University of Sussex and University of Chichester. These can be reached within a reasonable commute.