Nestling under the southern slopes of Blackdown Hill on the clay floored valley of the Sussex Weald is the village of Fernhurst; it is hard to imagine that this stone and tile hung village with it`s triangular green, overlooked by St.Margaret's church and the Red Lion pub was once an industrial hot-spot. From the late 15th century Fernhurst became a centre for the iron industry with a furnace, a forge and a cannon foundry, much of the extensive Wealden forest was cut down to feed the furnaces. For around 200 years the iron workings dominated the local economy, but with the advent of the "coke smelting" process the iron industry gradually moved north to be nearer the coal fields. In 1776 the furnace and foundry closed - the last in Sussex - and forestry and farming returned to the valley. Fernhurst had started out as a scattering of farmsteads in woodland clearings but by the 13th century when St.Margaret`s Church was built the village began to evolve around it. The church was all but re-built in 1881 under the architect Anthony Salvin, who lived in Fernhurst at Hawksfold; the Red Lion dates from 1592 it has a low timbered ceiling and a splendid inglenook fireplace. Fernhurst has seen many distinguished visitors; Oliver Cromwell occasionally stayed at Blackdown House home of the iron master William Yalden: the Fabian Society held meetings at Friday`s Hill House, George Bernard Shaw being a regular attendee and Alfred Lord Tennyson had a home on the eastern side of Blackdown Hill at Aldworth House. Improved roads - legacy of the iron industry - and arrival of the railways at Hazlemere (2 miles north) has seen expansion to the west but the village still retains it`s charm so much so that it was West Sussex Village if the year in 2007, pop along to see if it retains it`s crown.
Doctor
Inn
Pub and Bar
Restaurant
Kings Arms
Mumbai Tandoori
Red Lion
School
Taxi
Places to Stay near Fernhurst
Kings Arms (1.14 miles)
This Grade II listed building has recently been refurbished and extended to include a number of newly fitted out ensuite bedrooms set within the buildings and grounds of this 17th ... More
Barnhouse (1.81 miles)
The Barnhouse Bed and Breakfast is a wonderful base to explore historic Sussex and Surrey. The charming 17th Century ... More | visit website
Inn on the Hill (2.68 miles)
Great evenings start and end here. An imposing Victorian building, with a chic contemporary interior, serving a wide range of international cuisine. The open plan layout features slates floors, leather ... More | visit website
Georgian House Hotel (2.77 miles)
An elegant town centre hotel with superb leisure facilities including indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, gym and a range of beauty and health treatments. A perfect choice for business or pleasure with ... More
Lythe Hill Hotel & Spa (2.85 miles)
This privately owned hotel is nestled in 22 acres of Surrey countryside and offers relaxed luxury and a high standard of service. Lythe Hill Hotel and Spa has recently completed a large ... More
Branksome Place (3.19 miles)
Branksome is a listed centre boasting interesting architecture and a nautical feel. Thirty two acres of wooded countryside compliment the centre's Edwardian charm. Dedicated to the business traveler, the Centre ... More
The Mulberry Inn (4.12 miles)
The Mulberry, formerly The Rams Nest, is located on the edge of
Chiddingfold village.
Originally a pub, the restaurant now has a great reputation for its unique
style of dining, fabulous food, world class wine and excellent local ... More
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Devils Punchbowl Inn (4.40 miles)
At The Devil's Punchbowl Hotel you will find a traditional charm and elegance, the finest cuisine and a warm and friendly welcome. The hotel offers contemporary style bedrooms, traditional lounge ... More
Angel Hotel (The) (4.41 miles)
Originally a 16th century Coaching Inn, The Angel Hotel retains a wealth of original features and is situated in the heart of the historic town ... More | visit website
Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa (The) (4.53 miles)
One of the oldest hotels in England, dating back in parts to 1430. Oak beams and huge fireplaces dominate throughout.
Thirty nine rooms and suites (some Four Posters) all of which are individually furnished and have ... More
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