This village is not only said to be one of the coolest postcodes, but it is loved by celebrities and is full of luxury stays and countryside charm.
Fittleworth, nestled in the Chichester district of West Sussex, sits between Pulborough and Petworth and has a long history, with roots stretching back centuries.
Despite its small size, the village is gaining a reputation for its character, connections to famous names and as the home of what has been described as one of the best hotels in the world.
Here is why it is worth a visit and how to spend a day there.
Why Fittleworth is worth a visit
Your first question may be, why visit Fittleworth?
Last year, The Sunday Times named Fittleworth as one of the coolest postcodes to move to in 2025.
Focusing on the RH20 area, the publication described the village as the "posh-welly brigade's new favourite country hangout" and dubbed it the "new Cotswolds."
The Times said: "Fittleworth is a two-hour drive from London and has everything you need to indulge in country comforts – without the crowds of Chipping Norton."
Other publications have also praised the village.
Lifestyle website Muddy Stilettos has also highlighted Fittleworth as one of the best places to live in Sussex, noting its "strong community spirit, views of the South Downs and picture-perfect properties."
The village is also popular with celebrities, with Roxy Music frontman Bryan Ferry living in a mansion in the West Sussex countryside in Fittleworth.
Ted Dwayne, bassist of Mumford & Sons, lives nearby with his partner Milli Proust, having reportedly moved to the area in 2017.
Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour is also said to live close to the village.
How to spend a day in Fittleworth
Whether you’re planning a day trip or looking for a peaceful getaway, Fittleworth offers a range of attractions for visitors to enjoy.
Visit the Swan Inn
A standout option is the Swan Inn, a 14th-century coaching inn that has been named one of the world’s best hotels by National Geographic.
National Geographic said: "It’s hard to imagine a cosier place to hole up on a romantic break than the Swan, a 14th-century West Sussex coaching inn lovingly updated to the standards of country-hotel luxury."
The Swan Inn was also named the best place to stay in the southeast by The Times and The Sunday Times.
Judges praised the latest revamp of the "snug pub".
It was described as "a characterful country inn with retro touches", with interiors, service and a menu that offers "a glorious hit of nostalgia".
Walk the Serpent Trail
For those who prefer the outdoors, the Serpent Trail offers an opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside.
This 64-mile footpath runs from Haslemere to Petersfield, winding through heathlands and woodlands across the western Weald.
The trail is named for its serpentine shape and for passing through habitats of all three British snake species: the adder, grass snake and smooth snake.
Near Fittleworth, the trail passes through Lower Fittleworth, crosses the River Rother and follows the greensand ridge between the river and the South Downs escarpment.
Stop at Fittleworth Stores
A visit to Fittleworth wouldn’t be complete without stopping at Fittleworth Village Stores, which was named the best village shop in the UK at the 2024 Countryside Alliance Awards.
The community-owned shop, café and post office sits in the heart of the South Downs National Park and offers a wide selection of locally produced goods and general groceries.
Its website says: "Our shop carries a wide range of local produce and reasonably priced general groceries (including household items and over-the-counter medicines), together with newspapers.
"We are keen to support local farms and businesses so we are proud to stock produce from over 30 local suppliers.
"We also stock a range of local pottery and art."
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The café serves sandwiches, snacks, cakes and breakfast baps, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed morning or afternoon break.
With its blend of natural beauty, welcoming community and hidden gems, Fittleworth is a village that offers both charm and plenty to explore.
Have you visited Fittleworth before? Let us know in the comments.
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