A picturesque, market town in the South Downs of West Sussex, Petworth is an easy weekend escape if you're London based. There’s the opportunity for country strolls or serious hikes, as well as admiring the town’s Tudor era architecture and historic church, browsing its antique shops, galleries and boutiques, and eating well in Petworth’s charming pubs and impressive restaurants. Petworth is like a postcard from Ye Olde England, and the best places to stay in Petworth match perfectly. We have uncovered the most charming of Petworth’s inns and pubs-with-rooms, as well as a collection of Pullman carriages turned quirky B&B.
As well as its obvious architectural charms the town is renowned for its antique shops, in addition to which it holds regular antique fairs. These are held on Saturdays throughout the year, with an especially big event around the 20th of November. This is a fantastic time to visit, but do book your accommodation in advance.
The town of is linked in perpetuity to the Petworth Estate, a fabulous, 17th century stately home. It has featured in many period TV and film productions and boasts an extraordinary art collection, which includes works by Turner, van Dyck and Gainsborough, and also has a 700 acre deer park and gardens designed by Capability Brown. Cowdray and Goodwood are both within easy reach too, so the best places to stay in Petworth make a great base if you're heading to either the races or a polo match.