Attractions and Places To See around Thakeham - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Thakeham include a blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty. This West Sussex village is situated north of the South Downs, characterized by agricultural land and woodlands. The area offers opportunities to explore historical sites, natural features, and local community attractions.
Best attractions and places to see around Thakeham
- The most popular attractions is Chanctonbury Ring hillfort, a historical site that is a late Bronze or early Iron Age hillfort. It offers views over the South Downs countryside and is known for its prominent beech trees.
- Another must-see spot is West Grinstead Station, a historical site. Visitors can use this location for a picnic or coffee break, with a family restaurant featuring a large orchard garden nearby.
- Visitors also love Cissbury Ring Hill Fort, a historical site that is the largest hill fort in Sussex, over 5,000 years old. From its summit, views extend over the countryside to Brighton and the coast.
- Thakeham is known for its historical landmarks, natural features, and community attractions. The area offers a mix of sites to explore, from ancient hillforts to local gathering spots.
- The attractions around Thakeham are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 350 upvotes and 100 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Chanctonbury Ring hillfort
Highlight • Historical Site
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West Grinstead Station
Highlight • Historical Site
There is a "family restaurant" coffee place just off the track by the road.
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Cissbury Ring Hill Fort
Highlight • Historical Site
During spring and autumn you are able to observe a wide variety of migratory birds here as Cissbury is one of the first coastal landing points. The fort is managed by the National Trust and is accessible at any time, free of charge.
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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.
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Bramber Castle Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
The most visible feature of the castle today is the gatehouse tower, which still stands to almost its full height. Beyond it are the foundations of the living quarters, a kitchen and a guardhouse. The original castle was centred on a high knoll, on which was built a motte (a mound) that probably held a wooden structure. The motte was later abandoned in favour of a three-storey stone keep, of which only one wall still stands. The castle was surrounded by an outer ditch and an outer bank, and a stone wall around the top of the knoll.
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Tips from the Community
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.
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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.
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The remains of this Norman castle are perched on a high natural knoll overlooking the River Adur, defending a gap in the South Downs. Built soon after the Norman Conquest to help protect William I’s newly won territories, the castle was the Sussex seat of the de Braose family.
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Cissbury Ring is one of the jewels in the crown of the new South Downs National Park. It's the largest hill fort in Sussex and has a history dating back over 5,000 years. Set high up on a chalk promontory, its ditch and ramparts enclose about sixty-five acres. From the top on a clear day you can see forever, with views across to the chalk cliffs beyond Brighton and as far as the Isle of Wight.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit near Thakeham?
The area around Thakeham is rich in history. You can explore ancient hillforts such as Chanctonbury Ring hillfort, a late Bronze or early Iron Age site known for its prominent beech trees and views over the South Downs. Another significant historical landmark is Cissbury Ring Hill Fort, the largest hill fort in Sussex, offering breathtaking views to Brighton and the coast. For a glimpse into medieval history, visit the ruins of Bramber Castle, a Norman motte-and-bailey castle.
Are there any notable historical buildings in Thakeham village itself?
Within Thakeham village, you can find St Mary's Church, dating back to the 12th century, located on 'The Street,' which is a designated conservation area with timber-framed houses from the 17th century. Another significant site is Little Thakeham, a Grade I listed country house designed by Edwin Lutyens in 1902, showcasing Arts and Crafts architecture. The historic White Lion Pub, with parts dating to the late 1300s, also serves as a central community spot.
What natural attractions are there around Thakeham?
Thakeham is situated north of the South Downs, offering picturesque views and extensive woodlands, particularly known for their outstanding bluebell displays in spring. You can also visit Thakeham Place Farm, which features a garden that has evolved over 35 years, including a new natural pond designed to encourage wildlife. For birdwatching and diverse habitats, RSPB Pulborough Brooks is a haven for wildlife within the South Downs National Park.
Are there opportunities for walking or hiking near Thakeham?
Yes, the area around Thakeham provides numerous routes for walking and hiking, with gentle terrain suitable for various fitness levels. Trails often lead through woodlands and open fields, offering glimpses of the South Downs. You can find many options, including easy hikes like the 'Open Grassy Field – Uprooted Tree Stump loop from Thakeham' or more moderate routes such as the 'Meadows Cafe – Footpath to Thakeham loop'. For more details and route options, explore the Hiking around Thakeham guide.
Can I go cycling near Thakeham?
Absolutely. The region offers excellent cycling opportunities. You can find routes like the 'Hooklands Lane Smooth Road – Bax Castle Pub loop from Thakeham' or the 'Greatham Bridge – Burton Mill Pond and Mill loop from Thakeham'. These routes vary in difficulty, providing options for different experience levels. Discover more cycling routes in the Cycling around Thakeham guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Thakeham?
Many attractions around Thakeham are suitable for families. Historical sites like West Grinstead Station offer a nice spot for a picnic, with a family restaurant nearby. The Bramber Castle Ruins provide an interesting historical setting for exploration. Additionally, the numerous walking trails in the area, particularly those designated as 'easy' in the Easy hikes around Thakeham guide, are great for family outings.
What is the best time of year to visit Thakeham and its surrounding attractions?
Spring is particularly beautiful in the Thakeham area, as the extensive woodlands are known for their outstanding bluebell displays. The weather is generally pleasant for outdoor activities like walking and cycling. Autumn also offers lovely scenery with changing foliage. While attractions are accessible year-round, spring and autumn provide a vibrant natural backdrop.
Are there any local pubs or community spots in Thakeham?
The White Lion Pub on 'The Street' is Thakeham's only pub and a central community spot, offering locally sourced produce and Sussex ales. The Thakeham Village Hall also serves as a community hub, hosting various local events, classes, and activities throughout the year, including a biannual flower show and an annual 'village day'.
Are there any less crowded or 'hidden gem' attractions near Thakeham?
While popular sites like the hillforts attract visitors, exploring the smaller, local spots can offer a quieter experience. Consider visiting the historic St Mary's Church or wandering 'The Street' in Thakeham village to admire the timber-framed houses. The Thakeham Place Farm garden, with its focus on encouraging wildlife, also offers a peaceful retreat. For a unique historical landmark, Shipley Windmill, once owned by Hilaire Belloc, provides a charming point of interest.
What do visitors enjoy the most about Thakeham's attractions?
Visitors frequently appreciate the breathtaking views from historical sites like Cissbury Ring Hill Fort and Chanctonbury Ring hillfort, often highlighting them as great picnic spots. The blend of historical significance and natural beauty, along with the opportunities for outdoor activities, is a major draw. Many also enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to observe migratory birds at locations like Cissbury Ring.
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