Located in the county of West Sussex, in the South East region of England, Crawley is a vibrant and thriving town that boasts a rich history, diverse culture and a plethora of points of interest. Nestled conveniently between London and Brighton, Crawley has become an attractive hub for residents and visitors alike.
Crawley’s history dates back to the Stone Age, with evidence of ancient settlements found in the area. The town’s growth accelerated during the medieval period, particularly with the establishment of the iron industry. Today, Crawley is renowned for its blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Notable landmarks include the picturesque Tilgate Park, the historic St. John the Baptist’s Church, and the Crawley Museum which offers insights into the town’s fascinating past.
Crawley’s Population and Modern Economy
According to the 2021 census, Crawley has a population of approximately 118,500 residents. This growing population is a testament to Crawley’s appeal as a place to live, work and raise a family.
Crawley’s history is deeply intertwined with the development of industry. Originally a market town, it expanded significantly with the advent of the iron industry during the medieval era. The modern era saw further growth with the establishment of Gatwick Airport, transforming Crawley into an important commercial and residential centre. Today, Crawley’s economy is robust and diverse, with significant contributions from sectors such as aviation, retail and manufacturing. The town is home to several business parks and headquarters of major companies, reflecting its status as an economic powerhouse in the region.
Transport Links
Crawley’s strategic location is complemented by excellent transport links, making it easily accessible from various parts of the country and beyond. The town is well-connected by road, with the M23 motorway providing direct routes to London, which is just 28 miles to the north, and Brighton, approximately 22 miles to the south. These routes make commuting and travel convenient and efficient.
Rail connections are equally impressive, with Crawley and Three Bridges stations offering frequent services to London Victoria, London Bridge, and Brighton. The journey to London typically takes around 45 minutes by train, making it an ideal location for commuters.
Gatwick Airport, located on the outskirts of Crawley, is one of the busiest international airports in the UK. It offers flights to a wide range of destinations, including popular European cities like Paris, Amsterdam and Rome, as well as long-haul destinations such as New York, Dubai and Hong Kong.
Things to Do In and Around Crawley
Crawley offers a wealth of attractions and activities for residents and visitors to enjoy. Nature lovers can explore the expansive Tilgate Park, which features beautiful lakes, gardens, and a nature centre. For those interested in history, the Crawley Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past.
Cultural enthusiasts can enjoy performances at The Hawth Theatre, which hosts a variety of shows, from drama and comedy to music and dance. The town is also home to several art galleries and live music venues, offering a vibrant cultural scene.
Families will find plenty to do at attractions like the Go Ape treetop adventure course and K2 Crawley, a state-of-the-art leisure centre with swimming pools, a gym and sports facilities. For sports fans, the Crawley Town Football Club offers the excitement of live football matches.
Shopping in Crawley
Crawley is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide range of retail options to suit all tastes and budgets. The County Mall Shopping Centre is the town’s main retail hub, featuring a mix of high-street brands and independent retailers. Here, shoppers can find everything from fashion and beauty to electronics and home goods.
In addition to the shopping centre, Crawley boasts several retail parks, including the Acorn Retail Park and the Manor Royal Business District, which offer a variety of stores and services. For those who enjoy browsing markets, the weekly market in Queens Square is a must-visit, offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique crafts.
Eating and Drinking in Crawley
Crawley’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious, with a range of restaurants, pubs, and bars to explore. Here are five top-rated restaurants that showcase the town’s gastronomic variety:
The Old Punch Bowl: A historic pub and restaurant offering traditional British fare in a charming setting. Popular dishes include fish and chips, Sunday roasts, and steak and ale pie. The Old Punch Bowl.
Da Nico Italian Restaurant: This Italian restaurant is beloved for its classic Italian dishes and wide selection of fish dishes. Da Nico Italian Restaurant.
Zari: Offering contemporary Indian cuisine, Zari serves a range of dishes that blend traditional flavours with modern techniques. Zari.
Sage Vegan Café: A favourite among plant-based diners, this café offers a delicious range of vegan dishes, from hearty breakfasts to creative mains and desserts. Sage Vegan Café.
For those looking to enjoy a drink, Crawley has a variety of pubs and bars, including:
The Brewery Shades: A traditional pub with a cosy atmosphere, offering a wide selection of real ales, craft beers, and classic pub food. The Brewery Shades.
Octopvs Bar: A vibrant cocktail bar known for its creative drinks menu and lively weekend atmosphere. Octopvs Bar.
The White Hart: This historic pub offers a quality range of real ales from Harvey’s Brewery, a variety of carefully selected wines, and a host of ciders, spirits and soft drinks to choose from. A variety of live sports fixtures are available to watch, and a pool table can be found in the bar area. The White Hart.
Crawley Property Market
The property market in Crawley offers a range of options for both buyers and renters. According to recent data from home.co.uk, the average sale price for properties in Crawley is as follows:
- One-bed property: £188,377
- Three-bed family home: £403,264
- Five-bed property: £814,479
For those looking to rent, the average monthly rental prices are:
- One-bed home: £1,162 pcm.
- Three-bed family home: £1,768 pcm.
- Five-bed property: £3,350 pcm.
Crawley’s property market is buoyant, with demand driven by its excellent transport links, strong local economy and high quality of life. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, Crawley offers a diverse range of properties to suit different needs and budgets.
If you’re considering moving to Crawley or simply want to learn more about what this fantastic town has to offer, contact us today. Our team of experienced, local Crawley estate agents is here to help you find your perfect home.
