Storrington and Steyning are thriving country towns with long and interesting histories.

A number of new housing developments in recent years have attracted a lot of young families to the area, bringing fresh ideas and new opportunities.

Despite development, there is still a country town feel to Storrington which has two village ponds: The old Mill Pond in the centre and the Village Pond on the road to Pulborough.

The town dates back to Saxon times and is mentioned in the Domesday Book. The name derives from the German word Storch, meaning stork, and is possibly connected with the Saxon word Stor, meaning strong.

A charter to hold a regular market was granted by Henry IV in 1400, together with permission for three fairs during the year. Tanning and blacksmithing were important industries and it was only in the 20th century that these trades faded out.

St Joseph's Hall, in Greyfriars Lane, is a grade II listed former residence of the Bishop of Arundel and Brighton.

Parham Park, near Pulborough, is a large country house with rolling parkland complete with a large herd of deer. It is open most weekends to visitors The church of St Mary the Virgin was built in the 11th Century and the village hall was built in 1894 by public subscription after the site was given to villagers by the Rev George Faithfull.

A few miles to the east of Storrington on the A283, Steyning has come a long way from being a sleepy market town. It now has a thriving shopping centre with a wide choice of shops and businesses.

The timber-framed buildings in the High Street that once housed Tudor tradesmen add visual appeal to one of the most picturesque country towns in West Sussex.

A rich historical legacy sits easily with today’s shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants, which attract people from all walks of life.

Local residents and daily visitors help maintain the excellent shopping facilities that cater to most tastes. Those wishing to stay longer can find a range of accommodation in both towns and at the many nearby country hotels, pubs and B&Bs.

The avid shopper is in for a real treat when visiting Steyning and Storrington. The independent and specialist shops are a joy to browse around and make a welcome change from the uniformity found in many shopping centres. Here you can talk to the people who own the businesses and you are made to feel like a customer and not a number.