For hybrid workers, finding a new home away from London that balances charm with easy access to the city might seem like a daunting challenge. But house hunters needn’t worry; the ideal market town, complete with cobbled streets, cosy pubs, independent coffee shops and the all important rail links, does exist.
The town of Horsham in West Sussex is located on the western edge of the Weald. Records show that a settlement developed here as early as the first century AD. As well as functioning as a market town, Horsham grew and prospered through the development of a range of industries including leather tanning, brick making and the brewing of beer (it once had five breweries!). Today the town is home to approximately 60,000 residents.
“Being equidistant between London and the coast, you get the best of both worlds. Plus there’s great countryside in every direction.”
Activity in the town centre focuses around the Carfax, which plays host to Horsham’s regular markets showcasing the best of local crafts and food. The centre of Horsham benefits from being predominantly pedestrianised, allowing easy access to its wealth of shops and eateries. The characterful East Street is referred to by locals as ‘Eat Street’ due to its abundance of restaurants, pubs and bars. Upholding Horsham’s brewing heritage, the town is home to several excellent taprooms selling local craft beers. The Causeway is perhaps Horsham’s most famous street, featuring the town’s museum among its stunning row of historic buildings. The Causeway links the town centre to St. Mary’s Church, the oldest building in town dating to the 13th century.
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Horsham boasts many claims to fame. Comedian Harry Enfield went to school in the town, and actor Michael Caine began his career with a Horsham-based repertory company. The town also witnessed the last example of wife selling. An alternative to divorce, the final wife sale took place in Horsham in 1844 when a wife was sold for 30 shillings.
What is there to do in Horsham?
Horsham enjoys an impressive array of activities including a swimming pool, bookable tennis courts, a golf course, plus easy access to the Downs Link, a 33-mile former railway line ideal for cyclists or walkers. For a more leisurely option, head to the Everyman Cinema for a luxury cinema experience, take in a play at the Capitol, or browse the stalls on the market.
The town is also well positioned to make the best of everything West Sussex has to offer. Horsham resident Ben said: “Being equidistant between London and the coast, you get the best of both worlds. Plus there’s great countryside in every direction.”
What about schools in Horsham?
Horsham offers a good selection of schools including The Weald School and Tanbridge House School, both of which have been rated excellent by Ofsted. The town also has a range of independent schools including Farlington School and nearby Christ’s Hospital.
What is the property market like in Horsham?
The average house price in Horsham in the year 2023/2024 was £450,683 according to Rightmove. The average rent is just over £1300 per month. The town offers a wide variety of property types and styles, from one bedroom flats ideal for first-time buyers, to large family homes in Edwardian and Victorian styles.
What is the commute like from Horsham to London?
Horsham is exceptionally well connected by road, rail and air (Gatwick airport is about half an hour away by car). Regular fast trains connect Horsham with London Victoria in under an hour. A season ticket to travel three days a week into London will cost from £487 per month.
The Hattie 