Attractions and Places To See around Billingshurst - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Billingshurst include a blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural experiences in this historic West Sussex village. The area offers access to the South Downs National Park, providing opportunities for walking and cycling. The Wey and Arun Canal towpath also offers scenic routes for outdoor exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Billingshurst
- The most popular attractions is West Grinstead Station, a historical site that offers a place for a picnic or coffee break. It is located on a former railway line, now a trail.
- Another must-see spot is Shipley Windmill, a historical mill and viewpoint. This old windmill was once owned by Hilaire Belloc and featured on television.
- Visitors also love Baynards Station, a historical site that has been restored into a private home. It is an impressive example of a former railway station on the Downs Link trail.
- Billingshurst is known for its historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to re-wilding projects and nature reserves.
- The attractions around Billingshurst are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 250 upvotes and 50 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
West Grinstead Station
Highlight • Historical Site
There is a "family restaurant" coffee place just off the track by the road.
Tip by
Shipley Windmill
Highlight • Viewpoint
This is the landmark that really puts Shipley on the map, most recently after the windmill appeared on television, as the home of ITV's Jonathan Creek character.
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Baynards Station
Highlight • Historical Site
(You can take a look from outside though 😉)
Tip by
Bedham Old Church
Highlight • Religious Site
The tranquillity on offer here made the hamlet a popular escape with artists during the 20th century. Chief amongst them was Edward Elgar, who wrote his four last great works at the timber-framed Brinkwells cottage.
Tip by
The Milk Churn Coffee Shop
Highlight • Cafe
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Billingshurst.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures around Billingshurst
Tips from the Community
Not much to add that hasn't already been said in the comments above, other than that there used to be a pub, but this closed in 2009, the current owner has done an excellent job of maintaining the station and out buildings, when we passed they were working on some machinery in the engine shed.
0
0
The station was used in the 1957 BBC television adaptation of The Railway Children. Has been lovingly restored, lovely to ride past.
0
0
These old windmills are the best proof that people were clever enough a number of centuries ago - long before the discovery of electricity and the inventions that resulted from it - to harness the power of the elements for their own purposes: no human or animal muscle power is needed for the grinding process, but the wind captured by the covered wings is enough to drive the heavy millstones and thus, for example, to grind flour from grain (grain mills) or to press oil from olives (oil mills). Often they are only technical and historical evidence of a long tradition of craftsmanship, because most of the old mills have been abandoned over time.
2
0
Nowadays, only a few of them are still in operation in their original function, but are often merely technical and historical monuments to a long tradition of craftsmanship: the heavy millstones inside were moved using the power of the wind as the driving force, for example to grind grain into flour (so-called grain mills) or to press oil from fruits (e.g. olives) (so-called oil mills). These old windmills are therefore the best proof that people were clever enough to harness the power of the wind a number of centuries ago - long before the discovery of electricity and the inventions that followed.
2
0
Baynards Station was a railway station on the Cranleigh line between Guildford, Surrey and Horsham, West Sussex, England. The station opened with the line on 2 October 1865 and consisted of the station master's house, two waiting rooms, covered platforms, storage sheds, a booking hall, a veranda and a large goods shed. The station was built for Lord Thurlow, the owner of nearby Baynards Park, whose land was on the route of the proposed railway. As a condition of the sale, Lord Thurlow required that a station be built to serve his estate, despite there being no major settlement nearby. The station was used heavily to supply the US Army training facilities at Baynards Park during World War II. The station closed in June 1965 when passenger services on the Cranleigh line were withdrawn as part of the Beeching Axe. The station is currently being restored and most of the buildings (including the locomotive shed) and platforms are still intact.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Billingshurst?
Billingshurst and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit Shipley Windmill, a historic mill famously featured on television. Other notable sites include St Mary's Church, with origins dating back to Saxon times, and the Blue Idol Quaker Meeting House, once attended by William Penn. The West Grinstead Station and Baynards Station are also historical railway sites, now part of walking trails.
Are there natural attractions or outdoor spaces to enjoy near Billingshurst?
Absolutely. The South Downs National Park is a short drive or cycle away, offering diverse trails with heathland, riverside views, and woodlands. The Wey and Arun Canal towpath provides scenic routes for relaxed outdoor exploration. For wildlife enthusiasts, the RSPB Pulborough Brooks Nature Reserve is an excellent spot. You can also find fishing lakes and woodland walks at Sumners Ponds.
What are some family-friendly activities or attractions in the area?
Families have several options. Fishers Farm Park in nearby Wisborough Green is a highly-rated attraction with animals, adventure playgrounds, and indoor play zones. Sumners Ponds offers a leisure center with fishing, camping, and woodland walks. Leonardslee Gardens features spectacular ancient gardens, a play park, and wallaby enclosures, providing a full day out for children.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Billingshurst?
For scenic views, Shipley Windmill offers a historical viewpoint. Additionally, the South Downs National Park, easily accessible from Billingshurst, provides numerous elevated spots with expansive views of the surrounding countryside.
Are there good walking or cycling routes near the attractions?
Yes, many attractions are integrated into or near popular routes. The former railway lines where West Grinstead Station and Baynards Station are located are now part of walking and cycling trails like the Downs Link. For more options, you can explore Road Cycling Routes around Billingshurst or Gravel biking around Billingshurst.
What cultural experiences can I find in Billingshurst?
Billingshurst offers a blend of cultural experiences. The Billingshurst Heritage Trail allows visitors to explore the village's history. The area also boasts local vineyards like Kinsbrook and Nutbourne, offering wine tastings and tours. Annually, the Loxwood Joust provides an immersive medieval experience with jousting and banquets.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. The Wey and Arun Canal towpath offers flat, accessible routes. For specific easy trails, you can find options like the 'Cafe by the Pond – Sumners Pond loop' or 'The Crown Inn loop from Billingshurst'. More details on these and other easy hikes are available in the Easy hikes around Billingshurst guide.
Where can I find places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Many attractions have nearby refreshment options. West Grinstead Station is close to The Orchard Restaurant, known for its large garden. The Milk Churn Coffee Shop is excellent for coffee and cake, often with jumbo cheese straws. In the village, historic inns like The Kings Arms and Ye Olde Six Bells offer traditional pub experiences.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Billingshurst?
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and nature. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to stop for a picnic or coffee break at historical sites like West Grinstead Station. The charm of landmarks like Shipley Windmill and the tranquility of places like Bedham Old Church are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any unique re-wilding projects or nature conservation efforts nearby?
Yes, the Knepp Estate, located nearby, is renowned for its significant re-wilding project. It offers glamping, wildlife safaris, and various activities, providing a unique opportunity to observe nature conservation in action.
Can I find dog-friendly outdoor areas or trails?
Many of the outdoor areas around Billingshurst are suitable for dogs, especially the numerous walking and cycling trails. The Wey and Arun Canal towpath and various routes within the South Downs National Park are popular choices for walks with canine companions. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
What kind of events or community activities take place in Billingshurst?
Billingshurst hosts various community events throughout the year. These include seasonal fairs, open garden events, and live music nights. A notable annual event is the Billifest Christmas Festival. The Loxwood Joust also provides a unique medieval festival experience a short distance from the village.
Most popular routes around Billingshurst
Most popular attractions around Billingshurst
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
