Come and discover Petworth in West Sussex. This picturesque market town in the South Downs National Park lies within easy reach of London and is known for its wonderful independent shops and pretty lanes as well as Petworth House and Park which is managed by the National Trust. Petworth is recognised as a major hub for antiques and the arts in the UK, with over 30 dealers trading within a mile radius as well as a number of art galleries.
Petworth's pretty streets are dotted with original, interesting stores specialising in everything from homewares and fashion to flowers, art and gifts. The town has a strong food offering, with shops, cafés and restaurants specialising in fresh, artisan fare, and a monthly farmers market featuring selected local producers. A walk around the town is a world away from the traditional high street, with hidden lanes and cobbled streets. There are some amazing accommodation options in Petworth so why not stay a night or two?
Things to do in Petworth
Steeped in history, Petworth has links to the famous artist JMW Turner, a frequent visitor to Petworth House (National Trust). The town has many treasures to discover including Petworth Cottage Museum and Coultershaw Beam Pump, located 1 ½ miles south of Petworth on the A285 towards Chichester – all making it a day out to remember.
Petworth has a well-deserved reputation as a unique retail haven away from the bustle of the traditional High Street. It is a real treasure trove of independent boutiques, cafes, restaurants and accommodation. The town offers a wide range of retail outlets from flowers, fine foods, books, jewellery, fashion emporiums and traditional clothing stores, as well as the world-famous antiques and arts establishments - some 37 of them all within a half-mile radius.
After sampling the delights of Petworth, why not give your feet and taste buds a treat by stopping off at one of the many cafés, pubs and restaurants?
Just want a cup of coffee or quick bite to eat? Enjoy a coffee at The Hungry Guest Café in the garden of Newlands House Gallery or a luxurious hot chocolate from Saddlers Café, stop for lunch at The Angel Inn or enjoy a cream tea at Tiffins Tearoom.
Aficionados of Indian Cuisine will also be delighted by Meghdoots, home to authentic cooking or enjoy a visit to one of the traditional country pubs like The Star and The Angel Inn, as well as Badgers and Foresters Arms just outside the town - Petworth has something to suit all tastes and budgts.
No time to stop? There is a wide range of takeaway options and gourmet delis from Cherry's Deli or The Hungry Guest Food Shop.
Bookworms will love both The Petworth Bookshop - an inviting independent bookshop with a huge range of books, whether you're looking for a gift or browsing for a best seller - and Readers Good Booksd on Lombard Street which offers second hand collectible and readable books. Explore the huge range of antiques shops, or follow your nose to The Hungry Guest shop where there's even a dedicated cheese room!
Petworth's history
Meet Mrs Cummings at the Petworth Cottage Museum as she puts on the kettle and takes us back to a real-life estate worker’s cottage circa 1910. Explore Petworth through Turner’s eyes at magnificent Petworth House, explore the attics, underground tunnels and experience the taste of years gone by in the historic kitchens.
Art and culture in Petworth
Immerse yourself in culture at the prestigious Petworth Festival which hosts first-class artists from around the world every July. The Petworth Festival Literary Week normally takes place in October and welcomes a host of well known writers, directors and presenters.
Walking at Petworth
Take a historic walk around the town and the picturesque Shimmings Valley, at its best in springtime, or discover the ancient trees of Petworth Park, or keen walkers might like to explore the two day Petworth Way walk, which pauses in Petworth at the end of the first leg.
Find out more about Petworth at the Discover Petworth website.
