A view of Cowdray house ruins, Midhurst village, west Sussex, England. - stock photo

In the village of Midhurst, not far from the banks of the Rother River, sits a commanding and romantic set of ruins. These are the standing remains of one of England's most famous Tudor houses. Historically significant and dating from the twelth century, Cowdray house is still an impressive site. the buildings are grade 1 listed of heritage importance. Approaching the ruins from the village of Midhurst along a rural path, you can often see cows grazing contentedly in the fields surrounding the site. It is a popular tourist spot for visitors and picnickers at weekends. Excellent views can be obtained from the river and the old historic bridge as you approach the site.