The village of Fittleworth, home to Elivia Homes’ Hawkin’s Field development, is one of Sussex’s hidden gems, attracting house hunters seeking a quieter lifestyle compared to bustling cities like Brighton and Chichester.
Known for its unique sense of community, Fittleworth has a number of local amenities and interesting family days out, just a stone’s throw away.
With only three homes remaining at Hawkin’s Field, all built and ready to move into now, we’ve compiled our top five reasons why Fittleworth should be the next place you call home.
On the doorstep
Despite offering a rural retreat for its residents, Fittleworth offers everything you need on the doorstep including mainline train station (Pulborough), the local Fittleworth Village C of E School, The Swan pub, and the historic town of Arundel just over eight miles south of the village.
The jewel in this Sussex crown though is Fittleworth Stores, the village’s local convenience store offering locally sourced fresh food and pantry stock, jewellery and artwork, and a post office. The adjoining café offers a selection of breakfast baps, lunches, light snacks, cakes, and hot and cold drinks. These elements combined won the store the Countryside Alliance Rural Oscars award for the Southeast ‘Village Shop and Post Office’ category this year.
Stunning surroundings
Although Fittleworth itself provides convenience for those that live there, one of its many stand-out features is the stunning green areas that surround the village. From Fittleworth Wood to Waltham Brooks Nature Reserve, there is plenty on offer for those who enjoy long walks and the escape of nature.
Locals who prefer a brisker walk or hike can enjoy the South Downs National Park, which covers 1,600 square kilometres of English countryside, and surrounds Fittleworth.
Child-free days out
Although there is nothing more precious than time with children, it’s important to have time for yourself too; whether that’s a day with your partner, friends or family. Fittleworth is in close proximity to a number of vineyards and breweries for an adults-only day out within just a 15-minute drive.
Tinwood, Stopham, Upperton and Kinsbrook Vineyards offer tours, with several showing the winemaking process from grape to bottle, and the opportunity to try some of the local produce. For those preferring a cask or keg, the nearby Langham Brewery serves a range of award-winning real ales and beers.
History and heritage
Sussex is well-known for its rich history. Near Pulborough, tools have been found that date from around 35,000 years ago and one of the UK’s oldest fossils was found in Boxgrove showing the county has been inhabited for 500,000 years.
To digest some of the country’s rich heritage, the National Trust’s Petworth House and Park is a magnificent Treasure House, just 10 minutes from Fittleworth, displaying one of the finest art collections and nestled in a 700-acre deer park. To take in some local medieval history, Arundel Castle dates back to 1067 and showcases jousting tournaments, entertainment and combat, and of the UK’s largest tulip displays.
More active pursuits
For the more active members of the family, Fittleworth provides the perfect base to access a number of sports and activities from land, sea and air. Pulborough Paddles, just three minutes from Hawkin’s Field offers canoe, kayak and paddleboard hire on the banks of the River Arun, while Southdown Gliding Club will allow you to see Sussex from the skies. The renowned Goodwood Estate is just 20 minutes away and hosts regular horse races and the highly-anticipated annual Festival of Speed in July.
Hawkin’s Field is a high-quality and efficient development of just seven exclusive homes, all traditional in design and in keeping with the rural location.
With prices starting from £615,000 for the final three homes, Elivia is also offering up to £15,000 in Stamp Duty contributions.
Find out more about the final remaining properties, or visit the sales office and showhome, open Thursday to Monday between 10am and 5pm.