There is no shortage of things to do in Horsham, West Sussex, a market town where history, green space, and modern culture seamlessly blend.
This guide covers everything you need to know to get the most out of your time in Horsham, including transport options, popular attractions, top food and drink spots, and the best places to stay.
Bruckland Developments specialises in designing and building exceptional residential properties, including luxury homes for sale in West Sussex.
Key Takeaways
- Horsham is exceptionally well-connected, with easy transport links to London, Gatwick Airport, and nearby towns, making it ideal for both short visits and longer stays.
- Visitors can enjoy a rich blend of history, green space, culture, and shopping, from medieval landmarks and nature reserves to live entertainment and vibrant local markets.
- The town offers a standout food, drink, and accommodation scene, with everything from fine dining and cosy cafés to luxury hotels, boutique B&Bs, and countryside camping.
- Bruckland Developments offers premium homes for sale in Horsham, including the exclusive Meadow View development, perfect for those looking to make this West Sussex market town their permanent home.
Transport in Horsham: Getting There & Getting Around
Horsham is well-connected and easy to navigate, making it a great base for day trips, weekend stays, and longer visits. Whether travelling by train or exploring on foot, getting around is both simple and straightforward. Let’s consider the different modes of transport available:
Train
Horsham has a railway station, with regular Southern and Thameslink services to London, Gatwick Airport, and the south coast, making it one of the quickest and most convenient ways to travel in and out of the market town. There is also a railway station at Littlehaven, a suburban area within Horsham.
Bus
A network of local and regional bus routes connects Horsham to nearby towns such as Guildford, Crawley, and Worthing, providing an affordable way to get around if you do not have a car.
Car
Horsham is situated near major roads, such as the A24 (linking to Dorking and the south coast), the A264 (directly connecting to Crawley and the M23), and the A281 (towards Guildford and Brighton), making it an accessible place to reach from multiple directions by car. There are also local taxi services and private hire options available within Horsham.
Walking & Cycling
The town centre is pedestrian-friendly with dedicated cycle routes. There is also access to the Downs Link trail, a 36.7-mile path and bridleway, for those who enjoy exploring on foot or by bike.
Air
Gatwick Airport is within 30 minutes travel via road or rail, making Horsham conveniently based for visitors arriving from further afield or abroad.
Attractions and Things to Do in Horsham
There is no shortage of attractions and things to do in Horsham, with a wide range of options for visitors of all ages. To make exploring the town easier, we’ve grouped some of its highlights into sections, so you can find exactly what interests you.
Historic Sites & Landmarks
Horsham is steeped in history, and there are numerous historic sites and landmarks available to explore.
- Horsham Museum & Art Gallery: Housed in a timber-framed medieval building, the museum showcases 26 galleries of local, national, and international history. For literary fans, there is also a collection dedicated to the renowned Romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, who was born near the town.
- St Mary’s Church: Dating back to the 13th Century, this stunning historic church features impressive architecture and tranquil gardens. It is the oldest existing building in Horsham.
- Horsham War Memorial: Unveiled in 1921 to honour the 359 local men who lost their lives during the First World War, the 17-foot-high base, plinth, and obelisk stand as a poignant reminder of their sacrifice. Later, the names of those who died in the Second World War were added, further commemorating the town’s fallen.
Outdoor & Nature
Horsham is surrounded by green spaces and picturesque countryside, ideal for walkers, cyclists, and families looking to enjoy the outdoors.
- Horsham Park: A firm favourite for families and picnics, Horsham Park is 60 acres in size and features great activities, including a children’s play area, skate park, tennis courts, tennis table, volleyball court, and even a sensory garden designed with the disabled and visually impaired in mind.
- Warnham Local Nature Reserve: This 92-acre reserve contains reedbeds, a millpond, marshes, grassland, hedges, and woodlands. Home to over 400 species of plants and 100 species of birds, there is even a visitor centre so you can stop for a snack and a hot drink.
- Southwater Country Park: A popular destination for locals and visitors alike, this park features a lake offering watersports such as canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. There is also fishing, nature trails, and a dinosaur-themed children’s play area available. Located on the Downs Link, it has a visitor centre with a café, making it ideal for a full day outdoors.
Entertainment
Horsham also offers a lively entertainment scene for all ages, from live theatre and immersive experiences to outdoor music events.
- The Capitol: This venue offers a theatre, studio, two cinema screens, and a boutique-style bar. Visitors can enjoy blockbuster films, pantomimes during the Christmas season, and a diverse program of arts events, making it one of the county’s leading venues for art and entertainment.
- Major Mindgames: Horsham’s escape room experience is perfect for thrill-seekers and puzzle lovers alike. Tackle brain-bending challenges, decipher codes, and race against the clock in immersive rooms designed for all skill levels. Expect a mix of laughter, adrenaline, and clever problem-solving for a memorable adventure with friends or family.
- Carfax Bandstand: Erected in 1892, the bandstand in the town centre hosts live music performances and events at weekends between April and September. This iconic landmark is a focal point for events in Horsham.
Shopping
Horsham offers something for every type of shopper, whether you love high-street brands or prefer to browse independent stores.
- Swan Walk: The place for high-street favourites like Marks & Spencer and Boots, with plenty of cafes to take a break between shops.
- The Causeway: Home to independent boutiques, antique stores, and quirky finds, offering a more unique shopping experience.
- Horsham Markets: Held at Carfax on Thursdays and Saturdays, the markets bring a lively atmosphere with local produce, crafts, and street food, ideal for a taste of local flavour.
Top Food & Drink Spots in Horsham
Whether you’re looking for a quick coffee, a leisurely lunch, or a special evening out in Horsham, these hand-picked spots are sure to delight.
| Name | Type | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Café Rouge | Café | French-style café offering breakfast, brunch, and light meals in a cosy setting. |
| Carmela’s | Deli | Sicilian deli and café, offering Italian dishes, coffee, and speciality foods in a charming setting. |
| Panino Café | Café / Coffee | Italian-style coffee bar in Horsham with a relaxed atmosphere, great for light meals and pastries. |
| Restaurant Interlude | Restaurant | A Michelin-rated fine dining restaurant set in the gardens of Leonardslee Estate, ideal for a special occasion. |
| The Black Jug | Pub / Restaurant | A traditional, cosy pub on North Street, known for its hearty English pub grub and local ales. |
| The Little Teahouse | Tea Room | Family-run café in Southwater offering homemade cakes, breakfast, lunch, and afternoon treats, with all cakes baked on site. |
Where to Stay in Horsham
Horsham offers a variety of accommodation options depending on your preferences. In terms of hotels, there is the South Lodge Hotel, a five-star rated country house retreat, ideal for those seeking elegant rooms, fine dining experiences, and stunning landscaped grounds. For visitors seeking more affordable rooms, the Premier Inn offers comfort in a central location, great for business trips or short breaks.
If you prefer something more personal, Horsham has numerous bed and breakfasts. Springfields B&B, located near the town centre, is highly rated for its warm welcome, comfy rooms, and delicious breakfasts. There is also The Crown Inn in Dial Post, offering charming and traditional accommodation with a country feel, ideal for those who enjoy a village-style setting.
For outdoor lovers, there are also several fantastic camping and caravan options. Sumners Ponds Fishery & Campsite is a popular choice, offering 100 acres of lakes, woodland, and pasture. There is also Raylands Country Park with modern static holiday homes and a calm, rural atmosphere. Guests can enjoy on-site facilities including tennis courts, a dog-walking field, and a welcoming beer garden and lounge.
Homes for Sale in Horsham: Bruckland Developments
“Horsham and the surrounding areas have incredible character, and it’s immensely rewarding to create luxury homes where people can truly settle in and enjoy the very best of what the South East has to offer,” says Joe Bruckland, Company Director.
While Horsham, West Sussex, offers a wonderful place to visit, it is an even more rewarding place to call home. For those considering settling in the area, Bruckland Developments is proud to present Meadow View, an exclusive collection of five luxury homes in the beautiful hamlet of Monk’s Gate.
Each property has been thoughtfully designed with contemporary elegance, high-specification finishes, generous living spaces filled with natural light, and beautifully landscaped gardens ideal for families and modern living.
With a brand-new show home now open by appointment only, this is a rare opportunity for those seeking premium homes for sale in Horsham.
Bruckland Developments is a team of luxury property developers that specialises in designing and building outstanding residential homes across Surrey and the South East of England. Contact us today to find your dream home.
