As we bring our 20th anniversary celebrations to a close, we’re shining a spotlight on the local businesses that have helped shape our community over the past two decades – and, in some cases, for much longer. From changing high streets and economic downturns to a global pandemic and shifting consumer habits, these businesses have undeniably stood the test of time.
Chequer Mead
Chequer Mead first opened its doors to East Grinstead locals in 1996, and today houses over 250 shows per year – from plays, to pantos, to concerts and comedy nights – all while being supported by over 70 committed volunteers.
The Cheese Man
Founded by Fred Cowling in 1995, The Cheese Man started from a small storage unit on the Sussex coast and now occupies a 7,000 sq ft warehouse on the coast, offering customers over 300 cheeses from across the globe. Cowling’s son Tony joined the business in 1998, and later, Tony’s wife and son – meaning the business is very much a family affair.
Denbies
Located near Dorking, Denbies Wine Estate is the largest vineyard in England, with 265 acres under vines. The estate’s history dates back to the 16th century, but the vineyard itself put down roots in 1986 – and has been owned and operated by the White family ever since.
Pilgrim Brewery
Founded in 1982, Reigate’s Pilgrim Brewery, named after the Pilgrims’ Way that links Winchester with the tomb of Thomas Becket, claims to be the oldest craft brewery in the South East. The business was taken over by locals Adrian Rothera and Rory Fry-Stone in 2017, who dropped in for a pint and discovered the brewery was up for sale.
The Dolphin
Celebrating 50 years of serving the community this year, Haywards Heath leisure centre The Dolphin takes its title from the Sergison family of Cuckfield, who arrived in the late 17th century, and chose to feature three dolphins on their family shield.
Collingwood Batchellor
Family-run furniture retailer Collingwood Batchellor first opened its doors in 1968, when J.A. Collingwood acquired a small shop in Horley, sold by a W.H Batchellor who inspired the name the business bears today. The business now has eight stores across the UK, with the expanded Horley site serving as its flagship.
Bluebell Railway
The Bluebell Railway opened in 1960 as one of Britain’s pioneering heritage lines, preserving steam travel through the Sussex countryside. It’s also been featured in over 500 films and TV shows – from Downton Abbey to 102 Dalmatians.
Mansell McTaggart
With a history dating back to the 1800s in London’s Pall Mall, Mansell McTaggart’s own Jack Taylor opened its first permanent location in Burgess Hill, just after the end of the Second World War. The company has since grown to consist of 20 branches across Sussex and Surrey, with Taylor having retired in 1989.
Archway Theatre
Founded in 1939 by the Horley Central Players, The Archway Theatre moved to its present location in 1952. The auditorium was initially constrained by the height of the arches, meaning that actors had to crouch in the wings before entering!
Tulleys Farm
Crawley landmark Tulleys Farm has been run by the Beare family since 1937, and now hosts what is arguably Europe’s largest scream park with the annually held Shocktober Fest, as well as pumpkin pickings, and the Tulip Festival.
The Capitol
Horsham’s The Capitol has just celebrated its 90th anniversary – with its story beginning as The Ritz cinema in 1936, which was then repurposed into an arts centre in 1986. Now in the second phase of an almost year-long refurbishment, The Capitol’s doors are due to open once again in November, heralding in a new era for Horsham’s arts scene.
Squire’s
Squire’s Garden Centres have been serving the community since 1936 – with the original store having expanded to 17 sites across Surrey, Sussex, Berkshire, and London. The business is still firmly family-owned, with founder D.J. Squire’s son Colin Squire actively involved in the runnings, as well as his daughter, Sarah, who is Chairman.
