Petersfield is an ancient market town situated in East Hampshire. There has been a settlement there since possibly as early as 7000BC , but during the twelfth century a small chapel dedicated to St Peter was built with a market place next to it, and the town we now know grew around this.
As a location, Petersfield has a lot to offer. Its proximity to the coast makes it an ideal location for those wanting to take advantage of all that has to offer. It is also situated on the northern slopes of the South Downs and lies wholly within the South Downs National Park so there is plenty to see and do, including the Queen Elizabeth Country Park, the South Downs Way, and Butser ancient farm.
The town’s road connections are excellent, with the newly improved A3 close by, providing access to London, the M25, Guildford and the south coast. The A272 travels from west to east right across Hampshire, West Sussex and East Sussex. Petersfield also has a train station with frequent trains into London Waterloo for those who need to commute.
If you are searching for a property base in Hampshire, Petersfield has beautiful buildings in the town from right through the ages, so there is a lovely variety to choose from.
The town itself is still based around the market square. Until the 1950’s there were weekly markets for trading sheep, horses and cattle, but now the square holds weekly markets without the livestock and farmers markets once a month. Petersfield is delightful place to shop with a wide range of individual shops together with many high street chains to choose from.
Leisure facilities are many and varied. There is the Taro leisure centre, including swimming pool with slides, fitness centre and squash courts. There is also a heated open air swimming pool in the town, open through the summer months. Petersfield boasts a cinema, based in the towns Festival Hall, which also shows many plays and concerts throughout the year. Basingstoke Youth Theatre is very active here too.
The Heath is one of the most popular areas and considered by many to be the jewel in the crown. The area covers around 69 acres of land and has a 22 acre pond. All this is just a short walk from the town centre, and the site of the annual Taro Fair, originally a horse fair, but now a fun fair. Boats are available for hire; there is fishing, a play area, and refreshments, as well as a cricket pitch and golf course!
Restaurants in Petersfield range from charming coffee shops to the Michelin starred restaurant JSW, and a whole range of cuisines and styles in between.
For more information go to http://www.visitpetersfield.com/