If you’ve thought about moving to western Sussex, the rural village of Pulborough may come to mind. This quiet civil parish is home to just 5,000 people and is only 42 miles away from the busy streets of London.
The question is, is Pulborough a nice place to live? And does it make sense for your next home base?
This guide explains everything you need to know about Pulborough so you can make the best possible decision for you and your loved ones.
As mentioned, Pulborough is located centrally within Western Sussex and can be found within the Horsham district. It’s nestled between the junction of north–south A29 and east–west A283, which makes it a convenient 25-minute drive to the coastal town of Worthing.
Travellers who prefer to get around by train will be happy to know that Pulborough is located directly along the Arun Valley line operated by Southern. Trains run from Bognor Regis to London Victoria throughout the year, with stops at Horsham, Crawley, and other nearby villages.
But is Pulborough truly the place to hang your hat?
Let’s look more closely at what this village has to offer.
There’s a lot of charm in the humble village of Pulborough.
Here’s why thousands of people have decided to call it home:
The crime rate in Pulborough is roughly 90% below the national average, which, compared to many other cities, makes it very safe indeed. There is a thriving community to be found here as well, with a strong neighbourhood crime watch, bustling suburban living spaces, and plenty of ongoing activities for everyone to enjoy.
Locals can enjoy a variety of other community groups:
And many others.
There are several excellent schools to choose from in Pulborough, each with its own unique offerings and appeals.
They include:
St Mary’s Church of England (Aided) Primary School: Best known for its community feel, supportive pastoral environment, and good progress in core subjects.
Windlesham House School: Specifically for girls aged 4 to 13, this is an independent boarding and day school located on the South Downs.
Bury CofE Primary School: Designed for boys and girls between 4 and 11. Also rated ‘Outstanding’ in many areas according to their Ofsted inspection rating.
If you’re thinking about making Pulborough home, you can rest easy knowing there’s quite a thriving property market to be found. From character cottages tucked along quiet lanes to modern family homes with open-plan layouts, there’s quite a lot to choose from — and all at surprisingly affordable prices.
Pulborough’s average property value generally sits around £600,000, which is more than double the cost of the national average. It’s somewhat more expensive than nearby commuter hotspots like Horsham and Arundel, but much cheaper than properties you might find around London.
Detached homes often carry the highest price due to rural views and larger plots. On the other hand, semis and terraces offer more budget-friendly entry points for first-time buyers or downsizers. Rental options are available, too, although competition can be tight thanks to the village’s popularity with families.
Pulborough may be a somewhat smaller village, but there’s certainly no shortage of things to do.
Below is a quick overview of things to see, events to attend, and places to visit while in Pulborough proper.
Pulborough is surrounded by natural beauty, so it’s no surprise that outdoor living is a key part of village life.
The Pulborough Brooks Nature Reserve, for example, is a haven for birdwatchers and families alike. For more relaxed strolls, the South Downs National Park is just a short drive away for hiking, cycling, or simply soaking in the countryside scenery.
History enthusiasts will appreciate wandering through the village, where local settlements date back to Saxon times. Keep an eye out for charming footpaths and historic buildings, along with the occasional picnic spots and wildlife viewing opportunity.
Pulborough is home to all sorts of grocery stores, independent shops, cafes, and pubs, along with healthcare facilities and a library to cover everyday needs.
For families, there are plenty of schools, nurseries, and sports clubs within easy reach. The village also benefits from easy transport links, including the mainline train station mentioned earlier.
There are a few key local attractions worth visiting around town:
The Kinsbrook Vineyard (best for adults)
South Downs Light Railway (best for children)
Pulborough Brooks RSPB (best for all ages)
Pulborough prides itself on a close-knit, welcoming community, with dozens of fairs, markets, and festivities drawing in crowds from across the countryside.
One of the most popular of these is the annual Harvest Fair, which occurs on the fourth Saturday in September. Visitors can enjoy an old-fashioned fairground, a scarecrow competition, and even welly wanging.
Other events that have occurred in the past include the annual charity duck race and the yearly supercar event.
Undoubtedly, yes! And if you’re considering a move, it could be the perfect place to settle down.
Make Space has everything you need to make the process quick, simple, and easy, with self-storage solutions that ensure your next move is a success. Whether you’re buying, selling, or renting for a time, you can rely on our self-storage solutions in Pulborough to protect your property while in transition.
Curious to know our prices? You can get a household storage quote here.
Still exploring places to live in rural West Sussex? Dive into these surrounding towns: