A Sense of Englishness

Begin your tour of Petersfield at The Square, overlooked by the Norman Church of St Peter. Under the watchful eye of an imposing statue of King William III on horseback, two traditional weekly markets, a monthly farmers market and several annual festivals are held here.

Take a short stroll to Petersfield Museum, displaying discoveries from the Heath Bronze Age barrows alongside objects relating to the social, industrial and agricultural history of the area. Afterwards, visit the Flora Twort Gallery to see Flora’s famous watercolours and the Bedales Historic Dress Collection.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of Petersfield’s excellent eateries, browse the independent outlets and national shops along the High Street, or take a break from the bustle in the scented tranquillity of the Physic Gardens. Open in the summer months until early evening, Petersfield heated open air swimming pool has a big sun terrace where you can enjoy a picnic.

Surrounded by 69 acres of health and woodland, the Heath and Pond is a lovely spot to spend the afternoon. You can row a boat on the pond in summer, spot the several species of wildfowl, or wander the Heath to discover the 21 Bronze Age barrows.

Relax in the evening over a pint of local ale or a glass of award-winning sparkling wine made from grapes ripened on the slopes of the South Downs.

	Getting around
Distance	1.3 miles circular stroll or cycle from Petersfield railway station
Duration	All day, can be done in stages
Grade	Easy
Directions	Head straight from Petersfield railway station along Lavant Street and follow the sign to the Town Centre, turn right onto Chapel Street then left at Swan towards The Square. St Peter’s Church overlooks The Square and its imposing monument. The Library and Visitor Information Centre is right of the church. St Peter’s Road and the entrance to Petersfield Museum is to the left of the church. From The Square, walk along the High Street where you will find the Physic Garden on the left hand side. Turn left at the end of the High Street to visit the open air pool, or continue straight onto Heath Road for Heath Pond. To return to Petersfield railway station, retrace the route back to the High Street and Lavant Street.

Useful info

Pop into the Visitor Information Centre in the County Library on The Square for more information on things to do in and around Petersfield.

EXTEND YOUR VISIT

Extend your visit and spend a day exploring the nearby market town of Midhurst. Browse the antiques and vintage shops on West Street and wander the Cowdray ruins on the edge of town. Visit the South Downs Centre where you can learn about the landscapes, geology, produce and heritage of the South Downs.

Take a look at some of the other itineraries in Go South Downs. Enjoy a car free visit to the stunning countryside around Petersfield where you can enjoy the best of the special landscapes and attractions of the western South Downs.

A Sense of Englishness