Discover Crowhurst

Crowhurst particularly appeals to travellers who want to explore historic buildings, places of remembrance and an ancient yew tree during their stay. The parish church in Crowhurst, Surrey, has been dedicated to St George since 1191. There is also a cast-iron tomb, listed buildings and three walking routes. When choosing a hotel, you could therefore first consider whether your trip will focus more on church and architectural history or on walking.

St George’s Church and the Crowhurst Yew

St George’s Church in Crowhurst is a Grade II listed building. Inside the church is a cast-iron tomb that is probably unique in the whole country. This brings together, in one building, the dedication to St George and a cast-iron tomb with a remarkable distinction. The combination draws attention both to the church’s long history of dedication and to the material of the tomb.

The Crowhurst Yew stands in the churchyard of St George’s Church. It is estimated to be around 4,000 years old. The tree is also remarkable for its shape: its hollow interior is about six feet tall and has a doorway with a wooden door. According to local tradition, a large cannonball was discovered there in the 19th century. Along with its approximate age, the yew therefore has distinctive physical features and a historical story.

The dates also reflect different scales of time: 1191 is the year the parish church was dedicated, while the Crowhurst Yew is estimated to be around 4,000 years old. These are two different historical reference points—a dated dedication and an approximate age estimate.

Listed buildings

Crowhurst Place is a Grade I listed building. Altar Cottages are a Grade II listed terrace on Crowhurst Lane. The designations thus represent different types of buildings: a named building on the one hand, and a group of terraced houses on the other. For travellers interested in the area’s built heritage, this contrast adds a different kind of historic site to the church-related places.

Walking routes and settlement pattern

The parish offers three walking routes on its website, with their lengths adjustable to suit walkers’ needs and abilities. This means route length can be taken into account when planning. You can therefore choose a route based on the distance you want to cover, rather than being limited to a single set length.

The houses in Crowhurst are widely scattered across several small settlements. This settlement pattern adds another aspect of the area to its individual historic buildings. Your picture of Crowhurst is therefore shaped not only by a selection of named buildings, but also by its dispersed residential layout.

Getting to know Crowhurst for your stay

If you are mainly interested in architectural history, the church, the tomb, Crowhurst Place and Altar Cottages offer specific points of interest. If you prefer walking, the adjustable lengths of the three routes are another factor to consider. This lets you plan your trip around the subjects that interest you most in Crowhurst.

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