The Shaw

Wood, Forest in Sussex Mid Sussex

England

The Shaw

The old houses and shops at East Grinstead The top end of East Grinstead has not changed much for 100s of years. Many of the wood framed buildings still stand and the Town Church dominates. — The old houses and shops at East Grinstead Credit: Nigel Freeman

The Shaw, Sussex, also known as the Wood or Forest, is a picturesque area located in the county of Sussex, England. Spread across a vast expanse of land, The Shaw is a renowned natural spot, famous for its enchanting woodland and captivating scenery.

The Shaw boasts a diverse range of tree species, including oak, beech, birch, and chestnut, creating a rich and vibrant ecosystem. The dense foliage provides a haven for various wildlife, including deer, foxes, rabbits, and numerous bird species. Nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers are often drawn to this area for its abundant fauna and flora.

The woodland is crisscrossed by a network of walking trails, allowing visitors to explore the area at their own pace. These paths offer a chance to immerse oneself in the tranquility of nature and soak up the beauty of the surroundings. The Shaw is also home to several picnic areas, where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal amidst the peaceful ambiance of the forest.

In addition to its natural wonders, The Shaw also holds historical significance. The area is believed to have been inhabited since ancient times, with remnants of ancient settlements and burial mounds discovered in the vicinity. Archaeological enthusiasts can explore these historical sites and gain insights into the region's past.

Overall, The Shaw, Sussex (Wood, Forest) is a captivating destination that combines natural beauty with historical significance. Whether it's for a peaceful walk, wildlife spotting, or an exploration of ancient history, The Shaw offers a memorable experience for all who visit.

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The Shaw Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.115132/0.007784434 or Grid Reference TQ4037. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The old houses and shops at East Grinstead

The top end of East Grinstead has not changed much for 100s of years. Many of the wood framed buildings still stand and the Town Church dominates.

Nigel Freeman

Sackville College. East Grinstead

Originally built as Almshouses in 1609

Simon Carey

Clarendon House

Typical timber frame building in East Grinstead used as offices.

Nigel Freeman

Post Office

The high street leads up from the Post Office building which is the imposing red brick one.

Nigel Freeman

Town shops

Looking down the high street towards the north. Woolworths on the left.

Nigel Freeman

The Broadway

Entering East Grinstead centre from the south

Nigel Freeman

Water Fountain

Erected in 1887, to mark Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, is now dry.

Nigel Freeman

The Old Mill

The Old Mill (formerly Dunnings Mill) is a Harveys of Lewes public house.

Nigel Freeman

Whitehall, East Grinstead

What was once a rather stylish Art Deco shopping parade has been rather spoilt by modern indifference.

Dr Neil Clifton

The Old Mill, London Road

Set back from London Road and home to a number of small businesses.

Simon Carey

High Street

The eastern approach to the old Wealden market town's main street which was laid out in the 13th century. The main buildings in view are the Old Lockup a former 19th century police station and Porch House a 16th century cottage followed by the 15th century Cromwell House. In the distance the wide street has had shops built in the middle probably on older market plots.

Simon Carey

Cromwell House, High Street

Built in 1599 for Thomas Payne a local ironmaster. Destroyed by fire in 1928 but meticulously restored over the following year.

Simon Carey

High Street

Small row of shops between Church Lane on the left and the gardens of Sackville College on the far right. Built in the mid 1850s the middle one has an old frontage proclaiming it to be NH Pearson, cycle designer, est.1893, with what looks like a replica display from that era. The shadows on the street are made by Cromwell House.

Simon Carey

Middle Row

The wide High Street has been subdivided at this point with the main portion of the road going right and the smaller Middle Row to the left. The middle of the road was built on around the 15th century probably on the site of older market stalls. The building immediately to the left is the Dorset Arms which dates from 1705. Much of the High Street contains old buildings from the 14th to 18th century.

Simon Carey

Hermitage Lane

Small lane heading south from the High Street its slope giving an indication of East Grinstead's main street being built on a Wealden ridge.

Simon Carey

Middle Row

Taken from the junction with Portland Road. Some of the houses date from the 1350s and have often been expanded during other periods, Wilmington House, the first on the left, has an Elizabethan east wing grafted onto an older 14th century hall house that dates from around 1352. The buildings on the right are the rear parts of the shops on High Street.

Simon Carey

Middle Row

Looking back towards the High Street with the Dorset Arms beyond the blue car and the chimney stacks of Cromwell House in the distance.

Simon Carey

Crown House, High Street

Containing Bar Kuba and the offices of the local paper. Built in the 19th century but the name records an even older inn of 1502. Behind the shops and offices is the tower of St Swithuns church erected in 1812 after the previous tower collapsed and destroyed the 14th century church in 1785.

Simon Carey

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The Shaw is located at Grid Ref: TQ4037 (Lat: 51.115132, Lng: 0.007784434)

Administrative County: West Sussex

District: Mid Sussex

Police Authority: Sussex