Welcome to Petworth
The ancient market town of Petworth traces its origins back to medieval times. Set amidst the lush beauty of the West Sussex countryside in an area known as the Golden Triangle, its winding lanes and quaint old buildings give the impression that time has stood still. Yet nothing could be further from the truth, for Petworth, whilst maintaining all the charm of the past, is a thriving town. Not only an important centre for antiques, it also has much more to offer the visitor, including interesting shops, cafes and restaurants. Other attractions include the charming Cottage Museum, the cultural highlight of the annual Petworth Festival, the traditional Petworth Fair, the Hidden Gardens weekend…the list is endless.
Many of JMW Turner's masterpieces were painted here. Indeed, Petworth House, which abuts the town, houses the National Trust's finest art collection. Petworth Park, with its breathtaking views, wandering deer, lakes (traditionally known as ponds) and ancient trees, was designed by Capability Brown and is open to the public every day.
Just on the outskirts of the town, the Coultershaw waterwheel-driven three-throw beam pump,installed in 1782, continues to pump water from the River Rother up to Petworth, 1.5 miles away.
There is also much to enjoy in the surrounding area, including the grandeur of Arundel Castle, Nelson's 'Victory' in Portsmouth Dockyards, the delightful Elizabethan mansion and gardens at Parham House and Weald & Downland Open Air Museum , to name but a few. All this makes Petworth a wonderful place not only for the lucky few who live here but for the many thousands who visit the area each year.
