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The Town

East Grinstead is a compact country town of historical interest surrounded by attractive countryside, with a population of about 23,000. Over 80 listed buildings exist within the town centred on a Conservation Area around the High Street. There are 16 ancient timber framed houses and two Grade I listed buildings: Sackville College, an almshouse founded in the early 17th Century by the Earl of Dorset and still in use, as well as Old St Margaret's Convent, designed by G.E.Street in 1865, now converted into apartments and part of a private housing trust.

The town's boundaries are constrained to the north by Surrey Green Belt, to the east and south by the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and to the west and south by green gaps separating it from the villages of Crawley Down and Ashurst Wood. Delightful countryside is therefore within easy reach for everyone.

The Society

The East Grinstead Society was founded in 1968 as an independent unit to improve the amenities and protect the buildings of East Grinstead and its environs. The town's long history and architectural heritage are worthy of care by present and future generations. Membership is over 100 and most members are residents interested in the quality of life of the town and concerned for its future. The Society is a registered charity, No. 257870, a member of the Federation of Sussex Amenity Societies and of Regional Action and Involvement South East. It has a Constitution and is led by a committee elected annually by its members.

For other local related organisations see Links    

Activities

1. Monitor all planning applications at local level and keep watch on strategic developments in the district.
2. Alert Town and District Councils where practical improvements, for example footpath renewal, are needed.
3. Carry out an annual programme of meetings of general interest.
4. Organise town trails, lead guided walks and co-ordinate local Heritage Open Days.
5. Award annual prizes to local schoolchildren on cultural topics.
6. Support study of local history.
7. Produce and maintain 'Historic East Grinstead' signs for visitors and memorial seats.
8. Take steps to maintain the quality of the town's heritage.


Other pages:

Activities - the annual programme of meetings and projects.
News - current issues.
Join us - how to join the Society, its organisation, committee and external links.
Heritage - the town's history, events and arranged visits.
Photo Gallery - rural scenes in the vicinity of East Grinstead.

Sackville College, East Grinstead High Street (Photo by Simon Kerr)