Visit Petworth

Hungry Guest Cafe Petworth

2011-08-30T11:06:00.001+01:00

Hungry Guest Cafe Petworth, a photo by PetworthPoster on Flickr.

Had breakfast here one Sunday morning a few weeks back. It is pricey, but good value. You get a lot for your money and it is all good quality stuff. Lovely spot for watching the world go by and very well done out.

It has been open since I think the end of June and seems to be getting plenty of customers. Its a shame it isn't open in the evening but it is a good option during the day.

Checkers Antiques

2011-08-28T20:52:00.001+01:00

Checkers Antiques, a photo by PetworthPoster on Flickr.

Its now an interesting antique which specialises in (I think) glass. I guess from the name it used to be a small theatre. Or maybe not. But this early morning shot catches it in the sun.

Barns, Buildings and Outhouses

2011-06-12T08:06:00.000+01:00

Well known local artist Jonathan Newdick will be displaying his pencil drawings of Leconfield Estate farms.

2-12th July Saturdays to Wednesdays.

Petworth House Exhibition room.

Treve Annual Art Show

2011-06-06T08:03:00.000+01:00

16-31st July 11.00am - 6.00pm.

Treve Cottage, River Common (via Tillington) Petworth GU28 9BH

Art on the Hill - Clive McBain

2011-05-31T08:00:00.011+01:00

Artist Clive McBain is putting on a free art exhibition in his home for the Petworth Festival.

It is running from the 9th to the 30th of July from 11.00am to 5.00pm.

Burton Hill Barn, Burton Park Road, Petworth GU28 0JS

For more information see www.clivemcbainpaintings.co.uk

Intriguing Banner in Lombard Street

2011-05-30T15:53:00.002+01:00

Intriguing Banner in Lombard Street, a photo by PetworthPoster on Flickr.

Not entirely sure what this is all about. A set of posters with a sort of late eighteenth century look about them have appeared in Lombard Street. What does it all mean? I have no idea, but they do look interesting.

Market Square, Petworth in the snow

2011-05-26T15:03:00.001+01:00

Market Square, Petworth in the snow, a photo by PetworthPoster on Flickr.

Remember when we had all that snow?

Petworth Festival Art Exhibition

2011-05-25T13:45:00.000+01:00

This year the Petworth Festival includes an art exhibition. It will be in the Exhibition Room at Petworth House. It will open at 2pm on 16th of July and will be open from 11.00 am to 5 pm from the 17th to the 20th of July and the same hours from the 23rd to the 27th of July.

Much more about the whole thing on the Petworth Festival website.

Old Car in Petworth

2011-05-22T17:12:00.001+01:00

Old Car in Petworth, a photo by PetworthPoster on Flickr.

You often see unusual, interesting or just plain odd vehicles in Petworth. Especially when there is something on at Goodwood.

Daffodils! Spring is here!

2011-03-10T10:44:00.001Z

Daffodils! Spring is here! a photo by PetworthPoster on Flickr.

I snapped these daffodils in front of St Marys Church last Saturday. There is still plenty of opportunity for bad weather ahead, but at least once the daffodils start appearing you know that Spring is here and Summer isn't too far away.

Petworth Horticultural Society

2011-01-17T16:10:00.001Z

Petworth Horticultural Society
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

Good news for the green fingered. Petworth Horticultural Society will be meeting at the Leconfield Hall on Wednesday January 19th.

Peter Jerrome at Leconfield Hall

2011-01-16T15:19:00.001Z

Peter Jerrome at Leconfield Hall
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

The Petworth Society present a talk by Peter Jerrome at the Leconfield Hall on Thursday January 20th.

Shopping in Petworth: English Lampshade

2011-01-13T06:05:00.001Z

Petworth is a great place to find interesting and unusual merchandise making it a great destination for a shopping trip when you are looking for something out of the ordinary. The whole town is a bit like a big department store. This series of posts highlights a few examples to whet your appetite.

Hand made English Lampshade complete with a glass stand. £195.

Follit stock a range of interesting and unusual furniture, furnishings and decorative items from the UK and abroad, particularly Spain, the kinds of items that you won't find on the typical high street.

Shopping in Petworth: Gift Set from Artful Teasing

2011-01-12T14:57:00.001Z

Artful Teasing have come up with a perfect gift idea with this set of their hand and body lotion and their premium wash. Coming complete with a gift box wrapped in ribbon with a tasteful flourish. It looks special and will make the recipient feel special. Artful Teasing only use essential oils to fragrance their skin care products. The blends are lavender and rose geranium; Italian bergamot, black pepper and cardamom; Pink Grapefruit, Geranium & Lemongrass and the popular orange, geranium and frankincense.

£27.45.

Shopping in Petworth: Dug Out Canoe from Riverbank

2011-01-11T06:00:00.000Z

This dug out canal dates from the early Eighteenth Century and was probably used for eel fishing. It is on sale for £1250.

Riverbank - is a distinctive antique shop in the High Street with a penchant for nautical items, but lots of other interesting stuff too. lindaburkewhite@googlemail.com

Shopping in Petworth: Baby Clothes at Plum Gifts

2011-01-10T06:00:00.001Z

The ever popular Baby Plum range of baby clothes.

Plum Gifts in the High Street have a large range of interesting gifts to suit any pocket.

Faure at St Marys this coming Saturday

2010-11-01T14:56:00.001Z

Fernhurst Choral Society will be in Petworth this coming Saturday. The programme is choral music (I suppose it would be really) from Faure and Mozart.

Petworth Business Association now have a Flickr Group

2010-10-28T15:42:00.000+01:00

I have just noticed that the Petworth Business Association have a Flickr group. So now there is somewhere else you can see pictures of Petworth apart from this blog.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/petworthbusinessassociation/

It's a double yellow line for a reason

2010-10-27T13:43:00.001+01:00

It's a double yellow line for a reason
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

This van parked on double yellow lines opposite Artful Teasing on Sunday Afternoon succeeded in trapping a coach. The driver got out to find the driver to ask him to move it, but he was not to be found.

I don't know how the coach got out of its position but I guess it had to reverse onto the pavement by Daintree House, a fairly dangerous manouvre.

Co-op closed for refurbishment

2010-10-05T19:59:00.000+01:00

There can't be any Petworth resident who doesn't pop into the Co-op regularly to top on their shopping. Be warned, it is going to close for refurbishment shortly. Unfortunately I don't have the dates yet, but I will let you know as soon as I can. In a further blow to hungry Petworthians the chip shop is closing for the last week of October.

Its probably a good idea to get a few tins of baked beans in now.

Petworth Live Windows 2

2010-09-23T21:50:00.006+01:00

I've had to take the video down for the moment. I have just found out that you are not supposed to take photographs of children without their parents' permission. I will re-edit and put it back up when I have removed the urchin shots. Sorry about that everyone.

Stuffed Stag in Anthony Shorts

2010-09-23T11:04:00.001+01:00

Stuffed Stag in Anthony Shorts
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

I have been trying to get a decent picture of this amazing piece of stock for a while now, and the light is never right. I will stick with this for now unless I can get a better one.

I don't know how long it is going to be there. On the one hand, there can't be that many people who want something like this. On the other hand I imagine if you did want one you would need to grab it quickly while it was going.

Petworth Live Windows 2009 - The Video!

2010-09-22T14:30:00.003+01:00

Petworth Live Windows 2009
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

The gorgeous girls from Tiffins, Petworth's top tea shop took pity on me for my poor collection of photos from last year's live windows.

They have very kindly let me have theirs.

I haven't had a chance to go through all of them yet, but I think there are some good ones. In the meantime, here is a video of a couple of them.

Note - I have taken the video down for the moment. I have just learned that it is against the law to take pictures of children without their parents' permission. I don't think there are any in this video but I want to have another look just to be sure. Normal service will be resumed as soon as possible.

Hennings Wine Press: Petworth Live Windows 2009

2010-09-21T15:51:00.003+01:00

Hennings Wine Press: Petworth Live Windows 2009
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

One of my photos from last year's live windows. Hennings set up a wine press and had one of their younger and fitter males enthusiastically pressing grapes in it.

Any details on this year's live windows in Petworth will be posted at http://visitpetworth.blogspot.com/2010/09/live-windows-christmas-2010.html

Follit - New Shop in Petworth

2010-09-20T16:17:00.002+01:00

Follit - New Shop in Petworth
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

Follit is a new shop in New Street selling homeware and ornaments. Well its been open a few months actually but I have only just got round to taking a photo. They have a website ( http://www.follit.com/ ) but at time of writing it isn't up and running.

Twenty - Petworth Live Windows 2009

2010-09-17T13:08:00.002+01:00

Twenty - Petworth Live Windows 2009
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

The weather was so dreadful last year I couldn't get much in the way of decent photos, but I will stick up a few of the least bad ones. This was Twenty's model who needless to say was wearing a great dress which, equally needless to say, I failed to get in the picture.

I'll be putting any more news about the 2010 Petworth Live Windows competition on http://visitpetworth.blogspot.com/2010/09/live-windows-christmas-2010.html

Chip Shop Petworth

2010-09-16T10:42:00.002+01:00

Chip Shop Petworth
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

The chip shop in Petworth is in a bit of an awkward spot to get a decent photo of. I have had a few attempts, and this is the best I can come up with. I think it will have to do. None of this affects the chips, which are nice and tasty.

They have a little restaurant area where you can have a sit down meal.

So a nice little chip shop.

Live Windows Christmas 2010

2010-09-15T11:02:00.002+01:00

Artful Teasing ChristmasWindow 2006
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

I am hearing rumours that the town traders will be repeating the live windows thing that they did last year. I haven't got any more details at the moment, but I gather there will be a Facebook page and a Twitter feed - though I imagine the details of the windows themselves will be a closely guarded secret until the day itself.

When I hear more, I will tell more.

Memorial in St Marys Church Petworth

2010-09-14T10:58:00.005+01:00

Memorial in St Marys Petworth
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

I wonder how many people sitting in the pews of St Marys Church have shared my amusement with this memorial.
It commemorates a native of Petworth who seems to have done rather well for himself in Bath. On his death he left some money to support some old age pensioners in Petworth.

A noble gesture and one that pre-Welfare State was no doubt much appreciated. The funny thing is that the full details of the financial arrangement have somehow found their way onto the marble, even down to where the bank account was. Frankly, too much information.

See here for full view of St Marys Church Petworth

and here for an unusual view of St Marys Church Petworth in frosty weather.

Stamp Cushion at Rugs of Petworth

2010-09-13T09:25:00.001+01:00

Stamp-cushion-at-Rugs-of-Petworth
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

When Rugs of Petworth opened it was hard to think of a more opt name. But since then they have branched out into a few other lines including cushions. I really liked this intriguing design that was in the window over the summer.

Lickfold Inn to Close

2010-08-27T09:21:00.000+01:00

Chris Evans has announced that he is closing the Lickfold Inn. I have heard good things about it, but I never went there. Sounds like I never will now.

Quick Update on Red Lion

2010-08-15T08:56:00.001+01:00

Planning permission applications posted indicate the plan is for a bistro, bakery and a takeaway pizza.

Winning Goal at Veuve Clicquot Polo Gold Cup 2010

2010-08-03T23:15:00.000+01:00

Bit of a departure on this blog post. A video of a winning goal at the 2010 Veuve Clicquot Gold Cup polo match at Cowdray Park.

The Tempest Bignor Park 27th July 2010

2010-07-28T21:54:00.003+01:00

The Tempest Bignor Park
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

I took this photo on my mobile so it is a bit rubbish, but it is the ony record I have of the Tempest performed in the open air at Bignor Park. Local photographer Linda Westmore was there taking official photos which will be a lot better.

The play itself was very well done. The very small cast managed with very few props, no special effects and not even a female to take the part of Miranda. They did a pretty good job keeping everyone's attention right to the end. It isn't the easiest play to do in the open air. There isn't a a huge amount of action and the end is a bit odd to modern ears, with Prospero right at the end dropping out of character and asking for applause. But you had to admire the projection skills of the actors. A very enjoyable night out.

Annette Putmann, Petworth

2010-07-27T07:23:00.001+01:00

Annette Putmann
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

A new shop down the High Street - or at least I have only just notice it. Apologies if it has been open for years without registering in the gooey stuff that I try to pass off as my brain.

Seems to stock shabby chic furnishings so fits in pretty well with that part of town.

I couldn't find any online presence for this business - but if anyone has a link let me know and I will add it.

Spectacular display of Petunias at Therapy, Petworth

2010-07-26T21:28:00.002+01:00

therapy-petworth-with-petunias
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

Therapy is one of the most popular clothes shops in Petworth but at the moment it is mainly notable for having huge quantities of petunias outside their branch in Golden Square.

If you are interested in what they actually sell have a look at their website http://www.therapypetworth.co.uk/about.html

Hennings Wine Shop, Petworth Music Festival Window Entry

2010-07-25T08:19:00.001+01:00

Hennings Wine Shop, Petworth Music Festival Window Entry
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

Hennings picked up on the World Music aspect of the festival and came up with a sort of collage of flags and items of sheet music. It didn't win anything - though as the prize was a bottle of champagne maybe that bother them too much - but it has bought a splash of colour to that corner of Golden Square which has cheered me up when going to buy my booze.

Diver's Helmet in Riverbank, Petworth

2010-07-24T10:28:00.002+01:00

Diver's Helmet in Riverbank
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

Where do you go if you want to buy a brass diver's helmet? To Riverbank, the antique shop in the High Street in Petworth it would seem. It didn't have a price tag that I could see. If you buy it as a result of seeing it on here, please leave a comment. I won't get a commission but it would be fun to think I played a part in bringing someone together with a piece of vintage brassware.

See http://visitpetworth.riverbank-petworth for a photo of the shop.

Divot stamping at Veuve Cliquot Gold Cup 2010

2010-07-23T13:26:00.001+01:00

Divot stamping at Veuve Cliquot Gold Cup 2010
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

Photo taken at the final of the polo year at Cowdray in July 2010. One of the traditions of polo is to let the spectators onto the pitch between chukkas to stamp the pitch flat again. This is called divot stamping, and was very popular with the large crowd that had turned out.

Guilt's Festval Window Competition Entry

2010-07-22T07:32:00.002+01:00

Guilt's Festval Window Competition
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

Guilt have come up with some cracking window ideas over the years. This one maybe isn't their best ever, but is still colourful and entertaining. (It didn't win though.)

Guilt have now opened a shop in Chichester, which means that the PetworthPoster office have designated that part of Chichester as Greater Petworth, and I'll try and get some photos of it up.

The Red Lion - For Now

2010-07-21T07:32:00.001+01:00

Red Lion - For Now
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

There are lots of workmen busy on the Red Lion at the moment. The word on the streets is that it is going to reopen shortly as a bistro called The Leconfield, and that it is going to be run by a big name chef.

Watch this blog for future developments.

Tiffins - Winner! Petworth Festival Shop Window Competion Results out

2010-07-17T11:35:00.000+01:00

As predicted, favourites Tiffins won the shop window competition. Dark horse Artful Teasing pulled off a prize too. I've been a bit under the weather over the last few days but I'll get out and get some pictures as soon as I can.

Artful Teasing's Chinese Fan - Petworth Festival Window Entry

2010-07-15T15:47:00.001+01:00

Artful Teasing's Chinese Fan
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

Artful Teasing are taking the subtle approach this year. Their theme is Chinese music with a Chinese flute and some elegant looking fans along with one of their famous kimonos.

Not getting much backing at the bookies but could be a dark horse of the competition.

John Bird's Entry in Festival Window Competition

2010-07-14T06:53:00.002+01:00

John Bird's Window Competition
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

After his success in the Christmas window competition a lot of us were looking to John to come up with his Sgt Pepper of a window. Not sure he has really pulled it off this time.

Tiffins -Front Runners in Window Competition

2010-07-13T05:58:00.002+01:00

Tiffins -Front Runners in Window Competition
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

Part of the Petworth Music Festival is a competition for the shop with the best window. This provokes fierce rivalries with the shop keepers checking out the opposition and gossiping about one another mercilessly. The clear front runner this year are Tiffins who have gone with a teddy bear theme and created a storyline. A formidable entry indeed. But other outlets haven't shown their hand yet so there could still be an upset.

New Coat of Paint on Stringers Gallery

2010-07-12T05:24:00.001+01:00

New Coat of Paint on Stringers Gallery
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

Stringers gallery seems to be steadily upgrading itself from an art supplies shop to a sort of all round artists' resource centre. They still sell paint, canvas and prints but they also have a big printer for doing posters and reproducing large copies.

They are also offering courses for people who want to develop their art skills.

Black is a very arty and trendy colour, so probably a good choice.

Free Concert in Petworth Park

2010-07-11T08:16:00.002+01:00

Free Concert
Originally uploaded by PetworthPoster

Mrs Petworthposter and myself enjoyed a great evening of sun and music last night as the Petworth Music Festival opened with a free concert in the park. The opening group were Kasai Masai from the Congo who were great. The next act were KB, Terez and the Spank Band who seemed a bit thin on the ground. There were only three of them. But the lead singer made up in personality what they lacked in numbers. He claimed that they were the top band in the Bahamas and they seemed to be being followed by Bahamas TV. As the concert ended the crowd, including yours truly, spontaneously formed a conga. A really nice start to the season.

A Very Old Petworth Resident

2010-04-02T21:14:00.000+01:00

How about some ancient history. Henry I was one of the sons of William the Conqueror. His second wife was Adeliza of Louvain, who must have been a looker because she was known as the fair maid of Brabant. She was not only beautiful, but was from a very good family indeed. She was a direct descendant of the emperor Charlemagne. When she became Queen she was given various lands around the kingdom, including Arundel and its surrounding area. She must have been keen on this particular bit of property because she made her brother Jocelyn the constable of it, and also appointed him the baron of Petworth. A descendant of this family still owns Arundel Castle today. Another branch of the family included Ann Boleyn and Catherine Howard.

Icicles in Petworth

2010-01-15T20:27:00.007Z

The conditions on Sunday 10th 2010 must have been really conducive to the formation of icicles.

This house in North Street took the prize for length. But for size I didn't see any bigger than these over a door in East Street. And these ones down the side of Artful Teasing were pretty spectacular.

Snow Dalek in the Cow Yard at Petworth House

2010-01-10T21:15:00.002Z

Impressive creativity!

Snow Chaos

2010-01-09T08:18:00.001Z

I have to admit that I have enjoyed the snow, but of course it isn't fun for everyone. The Midhurst and Petworth Observer have been pointing out the downside. Snow - all the bad bits

Petworth Christmas Windows Competiion Winner

2010-01-08T20:14:00.005Z

The winner of the 2009 Petworth Christmas Window competition was popular and well deserved. John Bird Antiques is one of the focal points of the town and was done up a treat this year.

Personally I think it was the gnomes in the window that swung it.

Snow Photos

2010-01-06T12:42:00.004Z

This is Lecky the big snow face in Market Square. The story I heard was that he was made by some people coming out of the Star at closing time in good spirits, and they rolled up all the snow in Lombard Street. I wasn't the only person out snapping the snow this morning!

Live Windows: Twenty

2009-12-28T13:37:00.002Z

I got a bit light headed and carried away with the fun of the occasion (drunk) and my photos of the live windows didn't come out quite as well as I might have liked them to. But I will share as many of them that I can edit into something worth looking at. This one is from the winner of the second prize in the window competition, a masked model in the window of posh frock shop Twenty down East Street.

Live Windows!

2009-12-04T12:32:00.002Z

I was hoping to get hold of more details, but this is as much as I have been able to find out so far. About 20 of the shops in Petworth, or about half of them in other words, are marking the big turning the lights on ceremony tomorrow by replacing their normal windows with live models. I have also heard that the new antique place where the garage used to be ( I think it is called Archetray) is going to have a reindeer. This is all happening between 4 and 6. There is a guide to who is taking part which I have completely failed to get hold of, but no doubt it will be available on the day. All in all, it sounds like a lot of fun and I will try to get my camera out to record the event for this blog.

A Visit to the Angel

2009-11-22T16:23:00.002Z

Since it reopened about three years ago I have heard mixed reports of the Angel. The rooms are supposed to be very nice - but as I live just round the corner I don't have much need of them. I have heard sometimes that the food is very good and sometimes that it is very bad. I have found my own visits there to be pretty disappointing so far. But there have been a couple of changes of management since I last gave it a try so it seemed like it was time to give it another chance. Initially I thought I was in for yet another poor experience. The wait at the bar to be served was a bit prolonged, and there was nobody eating even though it was gone 12.30. The radio was on rather loudly which give the impression that it was there to entertain the staff rather than create an ambiance. I thought about giving up there and then. But before I did a very pleasant barmaid appeared and served us. We had the choice of tables, but within a few minutes of sitting down several other tables were taken and there were enough people to get some atmosphere going. The menu looked good (apart from the Angel logo in the corner which looked like the emblem of a Hell's Angel Chapter) and the prices were very reasonable. I was still far from convinced at this stage, but ordered chickens livers for a starter and fried chicken and roast potatoes for a main course. I had the distinct impression that the number of customers was a surprise to them. The same girl that was covering the bar was also taking all the food orders and serving on all the tables. I think she had quite a lot to do but despite this the service was pretty quick. The food was really good when it came. The yorkshire puddings were a little larger than I would have chosen and I prefer them a bit moister, but the rest was very good. It was very straight forward - just ordinary food cooked well. If you like something a bit fancier it might not be to your taste. If you judge a meal mainly by how good it tastes I don't think you would have any complaints. I was half and half as to whether I wanted a dessert or not and nearly passed up on it. But I am glad I did. The main course was very respectable and I had enjoyed it well enough to be quite happy. But the dessert was really superb. I had apple crumble with ice cream. The ice cream was tangy and full of flavour and the crumble was delicious. I loved the tanginess of the apples too. It was really a masterpiece and I can't recommend it highly enough. My friend had the raspberry and chocolate mousse and this too was magnificent. The bill for four of us including drinks and coffees for two two course and two three course meals came to less than £80. I cannot think of anywhere else around here you could get such a nice dinner for such a reasonable price. All in all, I thought it was a really good lunchtime. If you go, do make sure you have a dessert. It was by far the best bit of the experience. I have a feeling that they have got used to a rather low level of trade so I am a bit worried that they wouldn't be able to cope with a big influx of customers. But if you are thinking of giving the Angel a try, I can only encourage you.

Walk around Petworth Park for Breast Cancer Care

2009-11-14T08:36:00.002Z

Next May probably seems like a long way off, but if you can think yourself into next Spring, wouldn't it be nice to do something for a worthwhile charity? The walk starts at Petworth House and you get entrance to the grounds free as part of it. Full details: Breast Cancer Care Event Registration

Petworth House in the Financial Times

2009-10-10T15:49:00.001+01:00

I was just checking the price of my shares in South American Zinc in the Financial Times today when I came across this very nice article about Petworth House, which was a favourite bolt-hole of Turner.

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/5c06aebe-b3ab-11de-ae8d-00144feab49a.html

Nice to see the town getting coverage in a national publication.

Allans Menswear Win a Retailing Prize

2009-10-09T18:03:00.003+01:00

Allan's has just won a national award for their retailing success. I am sitting here wearing my excellent jumper that I bought there so for my money it is well earned. http://www.midhurstandpetworth.co.uk/news/Award-for-shop-brothers-in.5694755.jp

Tiffins Tea Room Telephones

2009-09-20T20:46:00.003+01:00

The window of Tiffins Tea Room is currently displaying telephones. I am not sure why, but it looks very interesting.

Petworth on the telly

2009-08-26T09:56:00.001+01:00

Trust Me I'm a Dealer is a new series following an antique dealer's trades on behalf of ordinary people. Apparently one of the episodes was filmed in Petworth, so it might be worth looking out to see if anyone you recognise is on it. Interesting to see what antique dealers get up to!

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Petworth on the telly

2009-08-26T09:46:00.001+01:00

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Midden House Petworth

2009-08-16T21:37:00.002+01:00

An interesting building that is easy to miss as you turn the corner past Petworth House.

Courtyard Petworth

2009-07-07T06:37:00.002+01:00

One of the up-market clothes shops in the town centre.

Little Boxgrove Cottage Petworth

2009-04-26T07:21:00.001+01:00

Little Boxgrove cottage is on the main road to Chichester just before the turn off to Midhurst. It is clearly a very old building with a long history. Looking at the side view I suspect that the front is a 'modern' exterior on a building that is older still. Its a shame that such a venerable old building is so close to the main road.

Allans Mens Clothing Store Petworth

2009-04-17T06:12:00.002+01:00

I was very happy to get this picture and write up from the folks at my favourite clothes shop. Allens is located just off the Market Square and stocks some good clothes for the discerning gentleman of fashion. They also provide the soundtrack to Christmas by broadcasting carols from their shop.

45 years ago in 1964 Marion and Fred Sneller and their seven children moved to Petworth and took over Allans, a Ladies Fashion and Haberdashery business based in New Street. The first day’s trading finished with a grand total of £1.87 in the till. The business quickly expanded and at one time the whole family plus several local shop assistants were employed in six different shops occupying four premises in the town. By 1974 the shops which included the original ladies fashions now traded in menswear, children’s clothes, dress fabrics and knitting wools and carpets, curtains and homeware.

Following the death of Fred in 1971 and Marion’s subsequent retirement in 1979 plus various family members moving on to other things, the present business is run by Bob and Dick Sneller although their sister Wendy Reynolds still does all the alterations for the shop. Another sister Jane Welch has just written her mother’s memoirs which Allans have published to celebrate the 45th anniversary.

Chip Shop Petworth

2009-04-16T06:24:00.001+01:00

Every town needs a chip shop. This is Petworth's.

Archway Cottage Petworth High Street

2009-04-15T16:29:00.001+01:00

A charming cottage tucked away behind a gate in the High Street in Petworth.

Ebeneezer Chapel Petworth

2009-04-15T06:37:00.001+01:00

St Marys in Petworth has a bit of reputation for being quite a 'high' church. Almost in its shadow is the other end of the scale. The now abandoned Ebeneezer chapel catered for those who like their Christianity a bit less ritualised. It has been long abandoned by the look of it and its position on the main road makes it very inaccessible to all but the very brave.

Open Space by HSBC Golden Square Petworth- Green Shoots!

2009-04-13T15:12:00.001+01:00

I took a picture of the bare ground outside the bank in Golden Square back in January (See previous Visit Petworth Blog Post on Open Space by HSBC). Since then things have been planted and started to grow.

I will keep an eye on it and update it further as things develop.

I have noticed from my blog stats that people are visiting my blog looking for details of and the opening hours of the bank. I am always happy to help multinational billion dollar financial institutions, so here are the key facts about the branch:

HSBC

Golden Square

Petworth

West Sussex

GU28 0AR

Tel: 08457 404 404

Fax: 01798 879 281

Opening hours are Mon - Fri unless specified 0930 - 1530

High Street Byworth

2009-04-13T10:37:00.000+01:00

Byworth is a great antidote to the cosmopolitan hussle and bustle of Petworth.

The building on the corner used to be the bakery.

Black Horse Byworth

2009-04-13T10:31:00.001+01:00

Met some old friends at the Black Horse in Byworth for a quick drink on Easter Sunday at lunchtime. This turned into quite a long drink, an afternoon being introduced to and reducing the size of their wine cellar then back to the Black Horse in the evening for a meal and to participate in the quiz. Verdict - this is a really nice pub serving good food and decent local real ales. I can wholeheartedly recommend the shepherds pie. The quiz was good fun too. All in all - a thoroughly great place to spend a few hours.

Unlike just about every other building in Byworth, the Black Horse is not particularly pretty or picturesque. But it is very old, at least 300 years. It must have started as a drovers pub and there are the remains of an inn sign out the back facing what is now the footpath from Petworth but what would have been the drove in days gone by.

I quite like the way that this is a very old pub but it doesn't play up its antiquity in any way.

Claudia Jones Exhibition at the Coco Cafe Sugar Lounge Petworth

2009-04-12T10:54:00.000+01:00

The Coco Cafe Sugar Lounge in Petworth doesn't just do chocolate and coffee. They also regularly have exhibitions of art and photos on their walls as well. The latest set is by Petworth resident Claudia Jones, and as Petworth's premier A-list blogger I was at the launch party to see how it all looked.

Claudia grew up in Jamaica and her oil paintings reflect the warmth and vibrancy of the tropics. A big contrast with West Sussex! She started painting in oils at school when she was 6 or 7 and has continued ever since. Her work is on display in several hotels in Negril, Jamaica.

This a detail from a triptych portraying a group of flamingos in a tropical pool. In additions to the oil paintings she also has some interesting screens that enable you to transform your room into a jungle.

And here is the artist herself

The exhibition is on until May 8th and most of the pieces in it are for sale. Claudia has a website where you can see more of her work. www.stargrasss.co.uk

More about the Coco Cafe Sugar Lounge.

Concert of Music by Handel and Purcell - Leconfield Hall Petworth 26th April 2009

2009-04-08T12:55:00.001+01:00

It is still a long wait for the start of the Petworth Festival and still no indications of the programme details yet, but classical music lovers have other options in the mean time.

I will be getting my tickets for this as soon as I can - its a shame there isn't anywhere in Petworth itself you can buy them.

If the organisers are reading - I would love a better illustration if you have one.

Coverage of Petworth Festival here

Age of Oak and Walnut Petworth

2009-04-08T07:07:00.001+01:00

The Age of Oak and Walnut is a new antique shop just opened. I don't know anything about it other than looking in the window and seeing that they do furniture. Something about the name hints to me that they might specialise in oak and walnut pieces, but that is pure speculation.

This building was until recently an office of Christie's, the auctioneers.

Update 13.4.09 - I have just discovered the Age of Oak and Walnut website. As I guessed, oak and walnut furniture is their speciality. They do some other stuff as well- all gorgeous.

Palm Sunday in Petworth

2009-04-06T06:31:00.000+01:00

There is a parade in Petworth on Palm Sunday(the Sunday before Easter).

This picture was taken on the corner of Angel Street and Middle Street.

The Petworth Town Band were there to provide the music. I don't know how many towns in the country still have a town band. Petworth is fortunate to have one to provide the atmosphere at events like this.

Petworth Parking Poser

2009-03-28T09:09:00.000Z

One of the good things about Petworth is that it has a large carpark right in the middle of town which is free to use and has unlimited parking. I heard that there were plans afoot to start a system where the parking will still be free but there will be a 2 hour time limit.

On first hearing it sounded a bit daft to me. But I listened and it turns out that there is a problem. It seems that a lot of people who work in London have the habit of meeting up in Petworth and sharing a lift either into London itself or to Haslemere or Pulborough stations, where the parking isn't free.

This means that the car park gets full up early in the morning and stays that way until the evening, meaning that people who have business in Petworth itself during the day have a job finding somewhere to park. The limited time rule should make this a bit easier. The commuters would soon work out that they could use the large car park by the Sylvia Beaufoy centre for the same purpose just as easily.

I couldn't help thinking that 4 hours would be a better time limit than 2 hours - there is a lot to see in Petworth and two hours seems a bit of a short period of time.

Anyhow, I don't know how far advanced these plans are and even if they will ever come to anything. If you know more than me please let me know.

Petworth Butchers

2009-03-26T07:26:00.000Z

Petworth Butchers can be found in the road leading into and out of the car park.

The shop is run by a local farmer who sells his own produce and also sources from other local producers, so this is a great place to get locally produced meat.

Despite appearances, this is a business that is run on a major internet router straight out of silicon valley using the latest high tech IT systems. The butcher can just as often be found rewriting his DLLs or configuring his code calls as he can slicing his bacon. And all this goes on behind this modest brick building's walls.

Petworth Festival 2009

2009-03-16T20:15:00.001Z

I have just noticed that the Petworth Festival 2009 website is now up and running with some previews of what we have to look forward to.

First impressions - it is good that they have not wasted the festival budget on a flashy and stylish website. It is er, basic. Mind you, not that visitpetworth.blogspot is much to e-mail home about.

But what has been revealed of the programme looks sensational. One of only two UK performances of a new work by John Taverner. Wow! I know that John Taverner isn't everyone's cup of tea but I will be queuing up as soon as the box office opens to get in on that one. It isn't until July so I will have to contain myself until then.

I signed up for the newsletter and the questions implied that there might be more on offer than music this year. I don't know any more than that at the moment.

I will post more information as it becomes available.

Pips of Petworth

2009-03-14T06:45:00.000Z

Petworth's greengrocer.

Pip's has only been open for a couple of years now. In addition to traditional green groceries they also do soup and freshly prepared smoothies. There is usually something interesting to see in there.

Bach in Bignor 21st March 2009

2009-03-13T12:44:00.001Z

This looks like it could be good.

And it is in a very Bach-like setting.

(Thanks to Abridgover on Flickr for the photo.)

Tickets are available at the tourist office in Petworth - or at least they are according to the flyer. I haven't bought mine yet but I intend to. More details below.

Spriggs Florists Petworth

2009-03-06T07:37:00.001Z

Spriggs is the only florist in Petworth and has the most impressive premises of any florist I have come across. I don't know how old this building is but it looks like it could easily be Elizabethan.

The brickwork on the chimney is particularly impressive.

And they have a website.....

Spriggs

Petworth Bookshop

2009-03-05T23:57:00.000Z

I find it rather amazing, and also very convenient, that a place the size of Petworth manages to support a bookshop. The Petworth Bookshop is not only about as accurate a name as any shop could have, it is also small but very well stocked.

Pompey Chimes Cottage Petworth

2009-03-05T06:35:00.001Z

An old cottage called Pompey Chimes. There are quite a few in roughly this style in Petworth. The thing I like most about it is its wierd angle relative to the road. No doubt it made sense when it was built.

Shiny Blooms

2009-03-04T20:03:00.003Z

Even in a really small place like Petworth it is amazing how you can come across really interesting businesses operating that you have never heard anything about it. It turns out that there's an organic flower grower and flower arranger operating near Grittenham Barn called Shiny Blooms. I have never seen any of their work but the illustrations on their website look really nice I like the environmental awareness thing too.

Visit the shiny blooms website

Ronald Chambers Antiques, Market Square Petworth

2009-03-02T19:50:00.000Z

Ronald Chambers is one of the top antique dealers in Petworth, and enjoys a key position in the corner of Market Square. It is always worth a look in the window as you go by, they have some amazing stuff in there including things like grandfather clocks and old keyboard instruments sometimes. The always put on a good show for the Christmas late night opening in December. In the photo they have decorated the window to mark valentine's day. I doubt very much that valentine's day makes much impact on their trade - they seem to just enjoy an excuse for a bit of flamboyance.

They have a website too http://www.ronaldchambers.com/

I only recently noticed that one part of the shop has another name over it, that of Jacqueline Tudor, so I guess that there must be two businesses operating on the same premises. But as they both use the same phone number they must get on pretty well.

United Reform Church Petworth

2009-03-02T06:44:00.000Z

Its position in the centre of town makes it tricky to photograph, but the United Reform Church is probably the most pleasant looking of the three churches in Petworth.

Somerfields

2009-03-01T08:30:00.001Z

How would any of us in Petworth get on without Somerfields? Knowing that a pint of milk or a rasher of bacon is only a short walk away anytime between 7 and 10 is a great comfort. Apart from the banks, the only big chain represented in Petworth.

Petworth Boys School

2009-02-28T12:21:00.000Z

A plaque near the Stonemason's arm records what must have been the most tragic event in the history of Petworth. On September the 29th 1942 a bomber dropped 4 bombs onto the school killing 28 of the pupils and several adults including the headmaster.

There is a very moving eye witness account here.

http://www.gravelroots.net/history/ww2.html

The military purpose of the raid is not known, and it is likely that it was simply a mistake or a case of a bomber getting rid of its load of bombs before returning home.

Candle Cottage Petworth

2009-02-27T13:47:00.001Z

This interesting building is set back from the High Street. It is such an unusual shape that there must be some history to it. If anyone knows please let me know.

Open Space by HSBC Golden Square Petworth

2009-02-27T07:26:00.001Z

Someone has removed the wild vegetation from the area in front of HSBC in Golden Square. This photo taken in January shows the bare soil left afterwards.

I don't know what the plan is, so I will keep an eye on it and add pictures as it develops. I hope they don't just let the weeds grow back.

The Surgery Petworth

2009-02-25T06:35:00.001Z

In its new custom built building and nice sized car park, the surgery is an asset to the town.

http://www.petworthsurgery.co.uk/

The Star Petworth

2009-02-21T08:26:00.000Z

The Star is the main pub in the centre of Petworth. It is very much a locals pub with darts and quiz nights. It does food during the day and has a good selection of beers. It has a page on http://www.pubsulike.co.uk/ which makes it seem a bit bigger than it actually is, but has some nice photos of the interior.

The current landlord is quite active in organising entertainment with quizzes and darts tournaments and the like.

Update 30.3.09 First full day after the clocks have gone back. I was wandering past the Star this evening and it was full of people enjoying coffee and pastries, presumably enoying the extra daylight in the evening. It is good the way in the last few years pubs have branched out into offering all sorts of catering options. So if you are in the Petworth area early in the evening, here is somewhere you can get a snack.

Petworth has a new vicar

2009-02-18T06:53:00.002Z

Petworth' has a new vicar, the Rev Tim Wright. He takes over St Mary's Church today, along with St Bartholomew at Egdean today.

He is 55 and married to Deborah with three children.

Artful Teasing Refurbished

2009-02-14T14:51:00.000Z

Artful Teasing have re-opened after their refurbishment with a much lighter and cleaner look to the shop. It looks like they have dropped a few lines and are concentrating on their own skin care products more.

Artful Teasing Petworth Website

Beat the recession? Yes we can!

2009-02-14T12:57:00.001Z

There isn't much we can do about the recession, but somebody is trying. The Yes We Can Sussex website encourages you to shop locally and support local businesses. It is a simple idea - they run a mailing list where local businesses can advertise what they are doing and any offers they have on. It seems to be free at the moment. And that seems to be it. I have just signed up for it and I think it is only just starting, but it sounds like something we should all support.

The nearer home you spend your money, the more likely you are to see it again after all.

I don't know anything about this apart from what is on the website itself - I will try and find out more.

The Petworth Club

2009-02-14T02:37:00.000Z

There are a few places you can get a drink in Petworth, but unless you are a local you won't get into the Petworth Club. You might not get in if you are a local - I have never crossed the threshold. But down cobbled Lombard Street is a discreet door that leads downstairs to a drinking club. I doubt that any visitor to the town ever picks up o the small lamp marking it and I am sure that there are people who have lived here for years who have never noticed it.

Rugs of Petworth

2009-02-13T19:43:00.000Z

This shop opened last year. It is a rug shop, and it is based in Petworth, so the name seems quite appropriate. They sell high quality rugs, and also offer an amazing computer based service whereby you can have a design created on screen and made into a rug. The picture is their Christmas window.

Find out more at their website http://www.rugsofpetworth.co.uk/

Giovanna Ticciati

2009-02-13T12:45:00.001Z

Giovanna Ticciati is situated in New Street and is a very minimalist outlet selling contemporary art and design. The wide windows open onto possibly the least cluttered shop in Petworth.

Minimalism is certainly the order of the day here, even at Christmas. This was their Christmas decoration. All of it. A statue of an angel, which had been in the window before Christmas, wearing an Ipod. It made a bit of a stir, including a mention on Ricky Gervais' blog.

As you might imagine, the website is quite stylish.

http://www.giovannaticciati.com/

Snow in Petworth January 2009

2009-02-12T13:37:00.001Z

Being protected by the Downs Petworth wasn't as badly hit by snow as many parts of the country, but nonetheless did get a reasonable dusting. It was all gone pretty quickly but here are a few pictures to remind you of it. All the experts are saying that this weather only happens every 18 years so it might be a while before we get any more.

Look closely and you can actually see the snow falling in this view of East Street right by the Tudor Rose antique shop.

The Shimmings valley with a thick layer of snow just before dawn.

New Street, view from the Red Lion across to Artful Teasing.