A few years ago, Midhurst had a faint whiff of decay about it.
Now, with an improving economy and a bit of investment, it’s a thriving historic West Sussex town that reeks of genteel affluence.
The market town and surrounding area are best known for being home to the Cowdray Estate, its cottages and other properties decked out in distinctive canary yellow livery. And a short stroll from the town centre, past the ancient castle ruins and in view of the rolling South Downs, are the sprawling Cowdray Estate Polo fields and the excellent Estate Farm Shop & cafe.
Back in the town, explore the ancient streets and dive into welcoming shops, cafes and pubs.
Gartons, tucked away in the old Market Square, offers up excellent coffee and a good menu from local produce, all at very reasonable prices. Go there for Sunday brunch, grab a table and immerse yourself in the newspapers for a very self-indulgent couple of hours.
There are plenty of other eating and drinking venues, and if you’re staying overnight it looks like The Angel Inn on the main North Street has benefited from recent investment, or splash out and stay at the historic Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa, a couple of minutes outside the town centre.
Midhurst and the surrounding countryside would be a splendid place for Silver Travellers to spend a short break.
