Midhurst

The famous ruins at Cowdray opened to the public again in 2007 after an extensive refurbishment. This Tudor house (which rivalled Hampton Court), was mostly destroyed by fire in the 1790s, and has been a picturesque ruin ever since. Also in the town are the remains of a Norman fortification on St Ann's Hill. Cowdray Park is the home of Polo, with matches taking place all summer, including the prestigious Gold Cup. HG Wells was apprenticed to a chemist in the town, and attended the Grammar School, returning later to teach there. Midhurst is the setting of many of his books.