 Originally
a small hamlet that grew up at one of the "gates" of Ashdown
Forest where the turnpike road (now the A22) began its climb up
the forest ridge, the village of Forest Row has grown gradually
over the past 150 years or so. Much of its growth was due to the
arrival of the railway in 1866 and the founding of the golf club
in 1888. For 100 years the village had a direct train service to
London but sadly the line was an early casualty of the "Beeching
Axe". The steady growth of Forest Row has, however, continued
with a population in the parish of nearly 5,500 at the last census.
The village has retained much of its rural character and is a pleasant
mixture of old and new, with traditional Sussex cottages and pleasing
modern developments. There are several village greens carefully
preserved and maintained by the Parish Council giving an attractive
open appearance. A modern children’s playground is located
on Rush Green that provides many hours of enjoyment for the younger
members of the community.
Forest Row is now a shopping centre for a wide area and virtually
every trade and profession is represented amongst the small shops
and businesses that still provide a  personal
service. A small number of light industrial units have also been
built and these have helped to create a balanced community without
intruding on the basic character of the village.
The population of the village is diverse largely due to the presence
of Michael Hall School and Emerson College and over the years the
village has become something of a centre for organic produce and
services - witnessed by the presence of Tablehurst and Plawhatch
farms, Cyrnel Bakery, the Seasons and other small businesses.
A growing number of activities is well provided for in the two village
halls, the community centre and the memorial pavilion at the recreation
ground.
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