Pictures of Petworth

About Petworth

The plain arcaded 18th century town hall at Petworth is surrounded by winding, narrow streets crammed with delightful medieval buildings of the fascinating half-timbered variety. These picturesque properties are interspersed with handsome Georgian town houses, the Somerset Almshouses or, Upper Hospital which was founded in 1746. The town spreads out from the tiny market place, reaching towards stately Petworth House in its magical setting that has seemingly changed little since in was immortalised by Turner's masterpiece of 1831.

Petworth House was completed in 1696 by the 6th Duke of Somerset, who thoughtfully retained the 13th century chapel of an earlier mansion, probably of around the same date as the chapel. The Carved Room is a triumph of the artistry of Grinling Gibbons, and most of the carving in the house is attributed to him. In the house you can see a magnificent art collection, and sculpture, porcelain, silver and tapestries adorn the sumptuously furnished state rooms. A look into the old kitchens in the servants quarters shows the sharp contrast between the daily lives of master and servant. Capability Brown laid out much of the 700 acres of parkland in which the grand house nestles, it is open to the public free of charge for almost all of the year. Here you can see a herd of gentle deer, stunning lakes, magnificent trees, garden statutory and the 17th century urns placed on pedestals around the park by the 3rd Earl.

This wonderful estate was given to the National Trust in 1947 but it remains the home of Lord and Lady Egremont. It is open for public view between March and November.

Petworth is an atmospheric place, it has a wealth of historic visitor attractions nearby and its close proximity to the attractive town of Chichester and its famous harbour makes it an idyllic destination for a romantic weekend or a longer stay so that you can explore coast and countryside.