Westbourne
A rural village in West Sussex
About Westbourne
This is the official village website. We hope you enjoy exploring Westbourne village on-line. We also look forward to seeing you in the village if you come and visit us in the near future.
On this site we hope to be able to show you something of the character of our village, how it ticks, its community and their village life. Learn something of our clubs and associations, village events and issues, our history, our churches and the village school.
Brief history
It is believed that the name Westbourne is derived from the fact that the River Ems, which in times gone by would have generally been referred to as Bourne, indicating a brook, marked the western boundary of Sussex, hence attracting to itself the name West Bourne and so passing it on to the village through which it flows'. Formerly Westbourne was renowned as a market town centred around the Square. It was famous
On this site we hope to be able to show you something of the character of our village, how it ticks, its community and their village life. Learn something of our clubs and associations, village events and issues, our history, our churches and the village school.
Brief history
It is believed that the name Westbourne is derived from the fact that the River Ems, which in times gone by would have generally been referred to as Bourne, indicating a brook, marked the western boundary of Sussex, hence attracting to itself the name West Bourne and so passing it on to the village through which it flows'. Formerly Westbourne was renowned as a market town centred around the Square. It was famous
The story of the village has been written and illustrated in a wonderful publication:
"The Westbourne Story"
"The Westbourne Story"
This beautiful village has an intriguing and eventful history dating back some 1,000 years to the Norman Conquest. This story comes from the villagers who have lived here. Drawing on fascinating past and present reminiscence from local residents, authors Lucinda Roch and Matthew Toms combine factual narrative with anecdote to convey the intriguing story of Westbourne. A story of heroes, eccentrics, miscreants, murderers, admirals, ministers, millers and publicans.
This colourful look at the village contains over 800 new and old photographs, paintings and drawings in its 192 pages.
The Westbourne Story vividly depicts every aspect of village life and the community, from the beautiful listed houses and the characters who lived in them through to the churches, mills, schools, pubs and clubs.
All revenue from book sales is being used to support deserving Westbourne causes. Enjoy the story.
The Westbourne Story is available direct at £12.00 plus £2.50 p&p. Please contact KMP, The Book Barn, White Chimney Row, Westbourne, West Sussex, PO10 8RS. *Phone orders:* 01243-377977.
Or order direct through the following link: http://www.kennethmason.co.uk/shop/products/6
The Westbourne Story vividly depicts every aspect of village life and the community, from the beautiful listed houses and the characters who lived in them through to the churches, mills, schools, pubs and clubs.
All revenue from book sales is being used to support deserving Westbourne causes. Enjoy the story.
The Westbourne Story is available direct at £12.00 plus £2.50 p&p. Please contact KMP, The Book Barn, White Chimney Row, Westbourne, West Sussex, PO10 8RS. *Phone orders:* 01243-
for sheep, cattle and pony trading and reached the height of its prosperity in the late 1600's, during the reign of Charles II. Although today there are far fewer shops than there were a hundred years ago, Westbourne still retains a vibrant commercial centre, boasting a selection of village shops, garages and pubs as well as the local school and the churches. Indeed the parish church, St John the Baptist with its 18th century spire visible from all approaches, plays an integral part in village life.
Incorporating 66 listed buildings, it is not surprising that part of Westbourne's charm lies in the diversity of its houses, ranging from timber-framed thatched cottages to Georgian mansions and Victorian
Incorporating 66 listed buildings, it is not surprising that part of Westbourne's charm lies in the diversity of its houses, ranging from timber-
terraces. Although its written history can be traced back to Domesday, a fire destroyed a large chunk of the village, resulting in the oldest surviving properties dating back to no earlier than the 16th century. Many shops have since been converted into residential properties but still display original features to indicate their past.
Close to Portsmouth, the parish of Westbourne has always attracted naval personnel. It is also home to many who work for local businesses and the village school continues to entice younger families into the neighbourhood. Residents appreciate Westbourne's rural charm, its sense of community and its thriving social life which, with the likes of Westbourne week, the Horticultural show and the Church fete, becomes particularly active in summer.
Close to Portsmouth, the parish of Westbourne has always attracted naval personnel. It is also home to many who work for local businesses and the village school continues to entice younger families into the neighbourhood. Residents appreciate Westbourne's rural charm, its sense of community and its thriving social life which, with the likes of Westbourne week, the Horticultural show and the Church fete, becomes particularly active in summer.
It is full of useful information about church activities, local schools and organizations, the Parish Council and also contains adverts for local shops and tradesmen.
Delivery to your door is available on a year’s subscription.
Delivery to your door is available on a year’s subscription.
Westbourne has its own special Magazine. It costs 45p a copy and there are 11 editions a year. Magazines may be obtained from Rosie’s Tearoom, Lashlys and Collins Garages, Animal Feeds and Westbourne Pharmacy, as well as the church. Copy for inclusion in the Magazine can also be left at WFW Art shop in the Square