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About Forest Row

The Ashdown Forest became a favourable and idyllic place for hunting in the 14th century. The King and his Lords would use Forest Row as their base. Such as the king Edward III and his son, John Of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster were regular enthusiasts. Timber framed houses began to replace the simple shelters, of which some can still be seen today: The Rose Cottages, The Square, Chequers, Post House and The Swan are but a few. The first mansion built in the area was the Brambletye in 1631. However, by 1680 the stately home was unfortunately destroyed, and today only the ruins stand to be seen bleakly in a field.

It was not until the 18th century that there was a substantial change once again, with the new roads to London, Brighton and Tunbridge Wells. More estates began to appear over the surrounding areas, the grand Kidbrooke Park, as an early example, was built in 1724 and then extended in the 19th century. Over two hundred years, this land was occupied by many successive families. Other such houses were the Ashdown House, Hammerwood, and Thornhill, which were being established for the pleasure of living away from the black smoke of the city.

Time went on, and by 1866 a railway linked the ever growing village, firstly to East Grinstead and then extending to reach London and Tunbridge Wells by 1882. Forest Row had become the perfect place for leisurely weekends, for playing golf on the fine greens or simply for the admirable countryside. In 1911 it had become a resort as popular and expensive as Ascot and Virginia Water.

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With the two World Wars it continued to be an attractive point, providing a pleasant atmosphere in which to retire. And by the end of the Second World War, with the expansion of both Gatwick and Crawley, and the arrival of Michael Hall School, there was a rise in population and a demand for more housing.

Forest Row, with nearly 150 small shops and businesses, provides its community with a large variety of different trades and skills with a personal service. Here are but a few which contribute to Forest Row's standing today.

There are two organic farms which work together - Tablehurst Farm and Old Plaw Hatch Farm are run by members of the community, together with the farmers. They provide organic meat, vegetables and dairy products all year round.

A large selection of different sports can be enjoyed, from sailing, course fishing and bird watching at the Weirwood Reservoir, to the 19 hole Golf course at the foot of the Ashdown Forest. There is the Memorial Recreational Sports Grounds that provide the facilities for tennis, football and cricket clubs.

The Village Hall has many uses - from jumble sales to drama productions - in conjunction with the Community Centre. The old secondary school building is bursting at the seams with a wide range of different group meetings; language, creative and health classes; and also a Cafe, open three days a week for home-made light refreshments, making it the perfect place to meet and make new friends.

The Public Houses situated around the Village Hall provide a good range of ales and food. Some have hotel facilities.

Michael Hall School based on the principles of Rudolf Steiner, is situated in the beautiful grounds of Kidbrooke park and is open to the public several days in the year. Emerson College is an adult centre of training and research based on the teachings of Rudolf Steiner.