The Bandstand

The Bandstand in Horsham is one of those Victorian relics that makes you realise how seriously people took their public entertainment a century ago. It's a proper cast-iron affair, the kind of thing you'd expect to find in a seaside town, except here it sits in the heart of West Sussex countryside. The structure itself is worth a look if you're into industrial-era metalwork - all ornate ironwork and that particular shade of green that Victorian bandstands always seem to acquire.

It's the sort of spot that appeals more to architecture buffs and local history types than families with restless kids. You're not looking at hours of entertainment here - more of a 10-minute wander to take a few photos and appreciate the craftsmanship. If live music happens, that's a bonus, though you'd want to check locally what the current programme is.

Horsham itself is a proper market town with decent facilities, so it works as a base if you're camping nearby at Raylands Country Park or Sands Farm. The Bandstand fits into a broader wander around town rather than being a destination in itself. If you're staying at any of the surrounding campsites - Slinfold, Sumners Ponds, or Sussex Topiary - it's worth a detour on a day trip into Horsham, particularly if the weather's turned a bit dull and you want something quick to break up the afternoon.