Mortgage Advice in Ferring: Property, Schools & Local Area Guide

That’s Family Finance
Property & Mortgage Guide — 2026/27 edition

Ferring

West Sussex

A buyer’s guide to Ferring — property prices and council tax, schools and their real Ofsted position, transport, healthcare, flood risk, the local lending realities, and the questions worth asking before you commit.

What’s inside
  • Quick Answers
  • Prices
  • Market
  • Why Ferring
  • Transport
  • Schools
  • Police & Fire
  • Areas
  • Healthcare
  • Flood
  • History
  • Beyond the Mortgage
  • FAQs

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That’s Family Finance is an FCA-regulated protection adviser (life insurance, critical illness cover and income protection). We do not arrange mortgages ourselves — we introduce you to carefully selected, award-winning, FCA-regulated mortgage advisers, with no obligation.

Figures in this guide were correct when it was produced and do change. Always verify council tax with the local council, school ratings with Ofsted and journey times with the operator before you rely on them. This guide is information, not financial or mortgage advice.

West Sussex Property & Mortgage Guide • 18 min read • Ferring • Updated July 2026

Mortgage Advice in Ferring: Property, Schools & Local Area Guide

Whether you're buying your first home in Ferring, remortgaging, upsizing or simply researching this sought-after West Sussex village — a quiet coastal village just west of Worthing, with its own seafront and beach, the protected greensward of the Goring Gap, and Highdown Hill and Gardens on its northern edge — this guide covers what buyers and homeowners actually want to know.

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Quick answers about Ferring

Click any question to expand the full detail and sources.

Is Ferring a good place to live?
Yes — a sought-after coastal village.

Yes — Ferring is a quiet, highly sought-after coastal village in West Sussex (BN12), on the coast immediately west of Worthing, between Goring-by-Sea and East Preston, in the Arun district. With a population of around four and a half thousand, it has a real village feel — a seafront and beach, the protected greensward of the Goring Gap on its edge, St Andrew’s Church, and Highdown Hill and Highdown Gardens just to the north. It is a notably affluent, quiet village with a high proportion of retirees. The main things to weigh are that it is sought-after (so not cheap), has no station of its own, and has a coastal and surface-water flood-risk consideration near the seafront and the Ferring Rife.

Sources: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferring | rightmove.co.uk — Ferring

Is Ferring expensive?
Sought-after — often £375,000–£650,000.

Ferring is a sought-after, affluent coastal village where prices are well above the national average, with overall averages often in the region of £375,000 to £650,000; flats and smaller bungalows offer the more accessible ways in, while larger detached homes and seafront properties run well beyond. Its village feel, its beach and greensward, its quiet character and its position just west of Worthing all support demand. Always verify current prices via Land Registry data or independent valuation advice for the exact property.

Sources: rightmove.co.uk — Ferring | landregistry.data.gov.uk

Does Ferring have a railway station?
No — nearest Goring-by-Sea or Angmering.

No — Ferring does not have its own station. The nearest stations are Goring-by-Sea (just to the east, on the West Coastway line) and Angmering (to the west), both with services along the coast and direct trains to London Victoria via the Arun Valley and Gatwick. For drivers, the A259 coast road runs through the area, with the A27 and A24 a little inland for Worthing, Chichester, Brighton and beyond. Always check current timetables before relying on a specific journey.

Sources: southernrailway.com

What is Ferring known for?
Its beach & the Goring Gap greensward.

Ferring is known above all for its quiet seafront and beach, and for the protected greensward — the Goring Gap — the cherished stretch of open, undeveloped green land between Ferring and Goring that runs down to the sea, a long-running local cause that keeps the villages from merging. It is known too for the Ferring Rife (the little stream that runs to the sea), for St Andrew’s Church with its Saxon and Norman origins, and for Highdown Hill (an Iron Age hillfort) and the famous Highdown Gardens just to the north — a celebrated chalk garden created in a former chalk pit.

Sources: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferring

Where is the nearest A&E to Ferring?
Worthing Hospital.

The nearest major hospital with a 24-hour A&E is Worthing Hospital, about four miles east; St Richard’s Hospital in Chichester is a further option to the west, and there is GP provision locally. As NHS services can be reconfigured and travel times vary, always confirm the nearest current A&E and the arrangements directly with the NHS.

Sources: uhsussex.nhs.uk


Is Ferring right for you?

Every village suits some buyers better than others — here is how Ferring rates for the people who most often buy here, and why.

Buyer type Rating Why
Retirees ★★★★★ A peaceful, affluent seaside village with bungalows, a beach, the greensward and a strong community — a classic retirement choice on the West Sussex coast.
Downsizers ★★★★☆ Plentiful bungalows and flats near the sea suit downsizers, though the sought-after location keeps prices well above average.
Families ★★★★☆ A Good village primary (Ferring CofE) plus the beach, greensward and Worthing secondaries nearby; check catchment and coastal flood risk.
Second-home buyers ★★★☆☆ The beach, greensward and quiet character appeal for a coastal bolt-hole, though it is a premium market and the surcharge applies.
Commuters ★★☆☆☆ No station in the village — Goring-by-Sea or Angmering give direct trains to London Victoria, but the commute is long and needs a drive first.
The short version: Ferring rates highly for retirees and downsizers wanting a quiet, sought-after coastal village; families and second-home buyers are well served too, while commuters must weigh the lack of a village station.

An honest, at-a-glance summary of what Ferring does brilliantly — and what to weigh carefully — before you commit.

Great if you want…
A quiet, sought-after coastal village — a seafront and beach, the protected greensward of the Goring Gap, St Andrew’s Church, and Highdown Hill and Gardens on the northern edge — with a real village feel, and Worthing and the coast within easy reach.
Think carefully if…
You want an affordable entry (it is a sought-after, affluent village), you need a station in the village itself (you use Goring-by-Sea or Angmering), or you're buying near the seafront or the Ferring Rife without checking flood risk.
Best suited to
Retirees and downsizers, families and professionals wanting a quiet coastal village near Worthing, and buyers who love the beach, the greensward and the countryside towards Highdown, and are happy to drive to the nearest station.

Ferring at a glance

The key facts buyers ask us about most, in one place.

Fact Detail
County & councils West Sussex (two-tier): West Sussex County Council & Arun District Council
Postcode district BN12
Approx. character A quiet, sought-after coastal village
Average house price Well above average — often £375,000–£650,000; larger detached & seafront homes beyond; sources vary
Railway No village station — nearest Goring-by-Sea or Angmering; direct to London Victoria
Nearest A&E Worthing Hospital (~4mi) — verify with NHS
Schools West Sussex non-selective; village primaries; secondaries in Worthing
Known for The beach, the Goring Gap greensward, St Andrew’s Church & Highdown Gardens
Population About 4,500 — a coastal village
Roads The A259 coast road; the A27 & A24 a little inland
Green space The seafront & beach, the greensward, the Ferring Rife & Highdown Hill and Gardens
Council tax (Band D) £2,433.02 for 2026/27 (Ferring parish; verified) — confirm your exact band

Property prices & council tax in Ferring

Ferring is a sought-after, affluent West Sussex coastal village where prices are well above the national average, reflecting its village feel, its beach and greensward, its quiet character and its position just west of Worthing. It offers flats and bungalows, popular family homes and newer housing, and larger detached and seafront properties. Published figures vary by property and area, so treat the ranges below as a broad guide and verify for the exact home.

Property type / area Typical position in the market Who it suits
Flats & smaller bungalows Indicatively around £250,000–£360,000 First-time buyers & downsizers; the more accessible ways in
Bungalows & smaller houses Indicatively around £350,000–£475,000 Downsizers; smaller families
Semi-detached & family homes Indicatively around £450,000–£600,000 Growing families
Ferring average Well above average — often £375,000–£650,000 (verify per property) A broad benchmark for the village
Detached & seafront homes Indicatively £650,000–£1m+ Buyers wanting a larger detached or seafront home
Council tax — the 2026/27 figure: Ferring is in West Sussex, a two-tier county, so your council tax is made up of several parts: West Sussex County Council (which includes the fire and rescue service and the adult social care precept), the Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner precept, Arun District Council, and Ferring Parish Council. For the Ferring parish the Band D total for 2026/27 is £2,433.02 (verified from Arun District Council’s published council tax bands). Your actual bill depends on your property’s band, so confirm it with Arun District Council and the VOA before budgeting.

What income might you need?

These illustrative figures use roughly 4.5x household income and assume a typical deposit. They are a starting point for budgeting only — not a quote or advice.

£360,000

Bungalow / smaller home

~£80,000

household income (guide)

£520,000

Village benchmark

~£116,000

household income (guide)

£750,000

Detached / seafront (indicative)

~£167,000

household income (guide)

Stamp duty (SDLT): what you pay depends on the price, whether you're a first-time buyer, and whether you own another property. At Ferring's prices, SDLT is a real cost to budget for — and the additional-property surcharge adds more again for second homes and buy-to-let. Use the government's official SDLT calculator for an exact figure before you budget.

Ferring affordability & stamp duty calculator

A quick, no-obligation way to see roughly what you could borrow in Ferring and what stamp duty you'd pay. Illustration only — real figures depend on the lender and your circumstances.

Estimated maximum borrowing: £270,000 (about 4.5× income)
Estimated budget with deposit: £310,000
Stamp duty on that budget: £5,500

Illustration only, not a mortgage offer or personalised advice. Lenders' income multiples and criteria vary. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Borrowing ready-reckoner (around 4.5× income)

Yearly income Rough maximum mortgage
£40,000 ~£180,000
£60,000 ~£270,000
£75,000 ~£337,500
£90,000 ~£405,000
£120,000 ~£540,000

Stamp duty (SDLT) in 2026 — England

Portion of price Standard rate First-time buyer
Up to £125,000 0% 0% (up to £300,000)
£125,001 – £250,000 2% 0% (up to £300,000)
£250,001 – £925,000 5% 5% on £300,001–£500,000 (no relief over £500,000)
£925,001 – £1.5m 10%
Over £1.5m 12%

Worked examples: a £250,000 home = £2,500 stamp duty (£0 for first-time buyers); a £450,000 home = £12,500 (£7,500 first-time buyer); a £650,000 home = £22,500 (first-time buyer relief doesn't apply over £500,000). An additional-property surcharge of 5% applies to second homes and buy-to-lets.

SDLT rates as at 2026 (England & Northern Ireland). Scotland (LBTT) and Wales (LTT) differ. Figures are a guide — confirm with your conveyancer.

The Ferring property market in depth

Ferring offers a sought-after coastal-village market — flats and bungalows, popular family homes and newer housing, and larger detached and seafront properties — with its village feel, its beach and greensward, its quiet character and its position just west of Worthing all driving demand.

Property type What to expect Typical guide
Flats & smaller bungalows The more accessible way in; popular with first-time buyers and downsizers. £250,000–£360,000
Bungalows & smaller houses A local speciality — popular with retirees and downsizers. £350,000–£475,000
Semi-detached & family homes Popular family homes across the village and its newer housing. £450,000–£600,000
Detached & seafront homes Larger detached homes and seafront properties — the top of the local market. £650,000–£1m+

Ferring's appeal — a quiet, sought-after coastal village with a seafront and beach, the protected greensward on its edge, and Worthing and the coast within easy reach — makes it a premium market, from bungalows and flats to substantial detached and seafront homes.

That range means budgeting and the right mortgage matter. Larger detached and seafront homes here can mean substantial lending, and coastal, low-lying or non-standard-construction properties are cases lenders and insurers assess carefully, so a survey is wise on an older home and a flood and insurance check helps near the seafront and the Rife. A whole-of-market mortgage adviser helps you match the right lender to your plans — the kind of introduction we can arrange.

Transport & commuting from Ferring

Transport in Ferring is a mixed picture — no station in the village itself, but Goring-by-Sea and Angmering are close, and the coast road links the area. These indicative times are a starting point — always verify current timetables before relying on a specific journey.

Route Approx. time Notes
Ferring → Goring-by-Sea station ~5–10 min drive The nearest station, on the West Coastway line (to London Victoria via the Arun Valley)
Ferring → Worthing ~10–15 min drive The town to the east, for shops, the mainline & the seafront
Ferring → London Victoria (via Goring/Angmering) ~1h40–2h Direct trains from the nearby stations via Gatwick & the Arun Valley
Ferring → Brighton ~30–40 min drive The city to the east, along the coast
Ferring → Chichester ~30–35 min drive The cathedral city to the west, via the A259/A27
Ferring → Worthing Hospital (A&E) ~10–15 min drive The nearest major A&E
Ferring → the A27 ~10 min drive For Worthing, Brighton, Chichester & beyond
Ferring → Highdown Gardens / the beach ~5 min The famous chalk garden and the seafront nearby
Buyer insight: Ferring does not have its own station, so the honest picture is that a car is useful here. The nearest stations are Goring-by-Sea (just to the east, on the West Coastway line) and Angmering (to the west), both with direct trains to London Victoria via Gatwick and the Arun Valley, and services along the coast to Worthing, Brighton and Chichester. For drivers, the A259 coast road runs through the area, with the A27 and A24 a little inland. That mix of a quiet coastal village and stations a short drive away is part of Ferring’s character — peaceful, but you will drive to the train.

Getting around Ferring

Day-to-day mobility here is worth thinking through — the practical picture.

By train

No village station — the nearest are Goring-by-Sea (West Coastway) and Angmering, both with direct trains to London Victoria via Gatwick and services along the coast.

By car

The A259 coast road runs through the area, with the A27 and A24 a little inland for Worthing, Brighton and Chichester — a car is useful here.

For the airport

Gatwick Airport is around an hour by road or via the nearby stations — handy for flights and fast trains.

By bus

Bus services connect Ferring with Worthing, Goring-by-Sea and the neighbouring villages — check current routes and frequencies.

On foot, by bike & on the beach

The seafront, the greensward, the Ferring Rife and Highdown Hill give superb walking and cycling on the doorstep.

For the commute

Ferring suits Worthing and coastal commuters, and London commuters happy to drive to Goring-by-Sea or Angmering for the direct Victoria train — a quiet coastal base.

Schools in Ferring

West Sussex state schools are mostly comprehensive and non-selective. Ferring has village primary provision, with a wider choice of primaries and secondaries in neighbouring Goring-by-Sea and Worthing, and independents within reach. Because catchments and admissions matter, confirm the current position directly.

School Type Inspection Notes
Ferring C of E Primary School Primary (state, co-ed) Good The village's own Church of England primary on Sea Lane — rated Good at its most recent inspection (October 2022); check the current catchment and latest report.
Worthing secondary schools Secondary (state, co-ed, 11–16/18) Read report Several well-regarded state secondaries serve the area from neighbouring Worthing — check catchment and admissions.
Sixth form & further education Sixth form / FE (state, co-ed) Read report Sixth-form and college options in Worthing and along the coast — check the current position.
Independent schools (Worthing & the coast) Independent (various ages) See schools Well-known independents are within reach around Worthing and the coast — a further option.
For homebuyers: West Sussex state schools are mostly non-selective, so the key questions are catchment and admissions, and a specific address matters — Ferring has village primary provision, with a wider choice of primaries and secondaries in neighbouring Goring-by-Sea and Worthing, plus independents around the coast. Confirm the current position with the schools and West Sussex County Council, and read each school’s most recent report in full — noting that from September 2024 state schools no longer receive a single overall Ofsted grade.

Map, Police & Fire Services in Ferring

A useful local guide should show the practical services buyers actually check — policing, fire cover, emergency healthcare and the local crime context for Ferring.

Policing in Ferring
Ferring is covered by Sussex Police, with a local neighbourhood policing team. As anywhere, crime varies by area and street. For current crime data by exact postcode, use police.uk. Emergencies: 999; non-emergencies: 101.
Fire & Rescue cover
Ferring is served by the West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, which is run by West Sussex County Council (its cost is included within the county council’s part of your council tax, not billed as a separate precept). For free home fire-safety advice and information, contact West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service. Emergencies: 999.
Nearest full A&E
On healthcare access — the nearest major hospital with a 24-hour Accident & Emergency department is Worthing Hospital, about four miles east; St Richard’s Hospital in Chichester is a further option to the west, and there is GP provision locally. As NHS services can be reconfigured and travel times vary, always verify the nearest current A&E and the arrangements directly with the NHS.
Buyer insight: checking police.uk by postcode takes two minutes and is worth doing before offering on any property.

Popular parts of Ferring & nearby

Where you buy in Ferring shapes both your budget and your character — from the seafront to the older village core and the newer housing inland. A quick orientation.

South Ferring & the seafront
The roads nearest the beach and the greensward — the most sought-after (and priciest) part of the village, with bungalows and detached homes; check coastal and surface-water flood risk near the sea.
The village centre & St Andrew's
The older heart of the village around St Andrew’s Church, with village shops and a real community feel.
North Ferring & towards Highdown
Residential streets inland towards the A259 and Highdown — family homes and bungalows, a little further from the sea.
Around the Ferring Rife
Homes near the little stream that runs to the sea — attractive, but check flood risk in low-lying spots.
The newer housing
Modern developments around the village bringing newer family homes — check the developer and any service charges.
The neighbouring villages
Goring-by-Sea (E, with the nearest station) and East Preston, Rustington and Angmering (W) — each with its own character (some have their own guide over time).

Local highlights & days out from Ferring

Ferring packs a beach, a cherished greensward and a famous chalk garden into one quiet village. A few of the best-loved local highlights.

The beach & seafront
A quiet shingle-and-sand beach and seafront, popular for walking, swimming and simply watching the sea — a genuine coastal-village asset.
The greensward & the Goring Gap
The cherished stretch of open green land between Ferring and Goring that runs down to the sea — a much-loved, protected gap that keeps the villages apart and gives room to breathe.
Highdown Gardens
The celebrated Highdown Gardens chalk garden just to the north, created in a former chalk pit — a nationally known garden and a lovely day out.
Highdown Hill
The Highdown Hill Iron Age hillfort (National Trust land) on the Downs above the village, with sweeping views over the coast and the sea — superb for a walk.
St Andrew's Church
The village church, with Saxon and Norman origins — a piece of Ferring’s long history at its heart.
The Ferring Rife & the countryside
The little stream that runs to the sea, and the fields and Downs towards Highdown — a quiet, green setting for the village.

Sports, leisure & community in Ferring

For a village its size, Ferring offers a lot — the beach, the greensward and the countryside.

The beach & the outdoors

The seafront, the greensward and the Ferring Rife give beach walks, swimming and coastal air right on the doorstep.

Gardens & the Downs

Highdown Gardens and Highdown Hill give a famous chalk garden and sweeping Downland views just to the north, with the South Downs beyond.

Village life & the town near

The village shops, pubs and community, with Worthing a short drive for wider shopping, the pier and the seafront, and Brighton and Chichester within reach.

Healthcare & local services in Ferring

Healthcare access is good for the area — GP provision in and around the village, and a major A&E a short drive away at Worthing.

Hospital & A&E: the nearest major hospital with a 24-hour A&E is Worthing Hospital, about four miles east; St Richard’s Hospital in Chichester is a further option to the west, with GP provision locally. As NHS services can be reconfigured and travel times vary, always confirm the nearest current A&E and the arrangements directly with the NHS.

The village and its neighbours have GP provision, with dentists and pharmacies in the area; the nearest major A&E department is at Worthing Hospital, about four miles east, with St Richard’s Hospital in Chichester a further option to the west. GP and dental registration availability changes over time, so always check directly with a practice about its current catchment before relying on it for a move.

Living in Ferring

Day to day, Ferring is a quiet, sought-after coastal village — a beach and seafront, the greensward, a real village feel, and Worthing and the coast within easy reach. Here is a sense of everyday life.

Ferring has the amenities of a well-established village — village shops, primary provision, pubs, a church and a strong community — along with the beach, the greensward, the Ferring Rife and Highdown Gardens and Hill nearby, and Worthing a short drive for bigger shopping, the mainline station and services. The big everyday pluses are the quiet, the beach, the greensward and the sense of place.

Connectivity for working is generally good — superfast (and in places gigabit) broadband reaches much of the village, so home and hybrid working is very possible, complemented by the nearby stations and the A259/A27 for office days. The main trade-offs are well-above-average prices, no station in the village itself (you drive to Goring-by-Sea or Angmering), and a coastal and surface-water flood-risk consideration near the seafront and the Rife — but for quiet, the beach and quality of life it is a special choice.

Everyday amenity In Ferring? Nearest / notes
Primary schools Yes (village & local) Ferring CofE Primary and schools in Goring/Worthing; check catchment
Secondary schools Nearby (Worthing) Well-regarded state secondaries in neighbouring Worthing; independents on the coast
GP & hospital Local / A&E a short drive GP provision locally; major A&E at Worthing Hospital (~4mi)
Nearest A&E A short drive (Worthing) Worthing Hospital — major A&E
Railway station Nearby No village station; nearest Goring-by-Sea or Angmering — direct to London Victoria
Shops Yes (village) Village shops; Worthing a short drive for wider shopping
Green space Yes (abundant) The beach, the greensward, the Ferring Rife & Highdown Hill and Gardens

Working & connectivity in Ferring

More people than ever work from home or hybrid, and Ferring is well set up for it — so it's worth being realistic about connectivity.

Superfast broadband reaches much of Ferring, with gigabit-capable full-fibre available in parts of the village, so home and hybrid working is very possible — complemented by the nearby stations and the A259/A27 for office days. Coverage can still vary by exact address, particularly in older and outlying properties, so check the specific property on the providers' and Ofcom's coverage checkers before you commit.

Connectivity Typical picture
Fixed broadband Superfast reaches much of the village; gigabit full-fibre in parts — check the exact address
Mobile coverage Generally good in the village; can vary near the coast
Rail for office days No village station — nearest Goring-by-Sea or Angmering, direct to London Victoria via Gatwick
Road & air A259 coast road; A27/A24 inland; Gatwick Airport ~1h

Flood risk in Ferring

On flooding, much of Ferring sits at lower risk, but it is a coastal village with the Ferring Rife running through it, so the seafront and low-lying parts carry a flood-risk consideration worth checking carefully.

Much of the village is at lower risk: the parts of Ferring away from the seafront and the Rife, on higher ground, sit at lower flood risk — a reassuring picture for much of the village.
The seafront & the Ferring Rife: the low-lying areas near the seafront and the Ferring Rife carry a higher flood risk (coastal and surface water), and surface water can affect some spots in heavy rain. For a home near the sea or the Rife this is worth checking carefully, and it can affect insurance.
What to do: for any seafront or low-lying home — and as a sensible check everywhere — check the postcode on the GOV.UK flood risk service (coastal, river and surface-water risk), review the survey and searches, and confirm buildings insurance (and its cost) before you're committed.

Cost of living & running a home in Ferring

Beyond the mortgage, it helps to picture the ongoing costs of a home here. Indicative only — always confirm for a specific property.

Typical ongoing cost Indicative figure Notes
Council tax (Band D, 2026/27) £2,433.02 West Sussex, Ferring parish (verified) — confirm your band
Buildings insurance Varies — check near the sea Coastal and surface-water flood risk near the seafront and Rife can affect premiums; get a quote and flood check before committing
Water & wastewater ~£500–£800/yr Southern Water area — check the supplier for the address
Broadband ~£30–£50/mth Superfast widely available; gigabit full-fibre in parts — check the address
Stamp duty (SDLT) — how the bands work: what you pay depends on the price and your circumstances. Standard residential SDLT rises with the price, so at Ferring's values it is a real cost to budget for; an additional-property surcharge applies again to second homes and buy-to-let. Use the official GOV.UK SDLT calculator for an exact figure.

Financing a home in Ferring

A quiet, sought-after West Sussex coastal village is a lovely thing to buy into — a few points on the mortgage side are worth understanding first.

Ferring's desirable market and well-above-average prices mean the right mortgage matters — from village flats and bungalows to larger detached and seafront homes that involve substantial lending. Coastal, low-lying, non-standard-construction or older properties are cases lenders and insurers assess carefully, so a survey is wise on an older home and a flood and insurance check helps near the seafront and the Rife. Getting the right lender for your circumstances is where good advice pays off.

A whole-of-market approach really helps here. That's Family Finance introduces you to carefully selected, FCA-regulated mortgage advisers who search across lenders to fit your circumstances, and we make sure your protection is set up properly alongside it. Talk to us →

Conveyancing & the searches to expect in Ferring

A few standard checks are worth their weight when buying in Ferring — especially coastal and surface-water flood near the seafront and the Rife.

Flood & water: for a home near the seafront or the Ferring Rife, a thorough flood search is wise (coastal and surface water), and you should confirm that buildings insurance is available and affordable before you're committed.
Property: a local authority search, drainage and water search, and a full building survey is wise on an older or non-standard home; on a new-build check the developer, tenure and any service charges.
Other checks: check any covenants, boundaries, and take your solicitor's specific advice for the exact property.

History, heritage & famous connections

Ferring is an old settlement on the West Sussex coast, its name recorded in the Domesday Book and its parish church, St Andrew’s, carrying Saxon and Norman origins. On the Downs just to the north, Highdown Hill was occupied as far back as the Bronze and Iron Ages and became an Iron Age hillfort, later the site of an Anglo-Saxon cemetery — a reminder that this stretch of coast has been lived in for thousands of years. For much of its history Ferring was a small farming and fishing village on the coastal plain between the sea and the Downs.

In the 20th century, like much of the Sussex coast, Ferring grew as a residential village of bungalows, seafront homes and modern housing, becoming a quiet and sought-after place to live — but its community fought hard to keep the open greensward of the Goring Gap between Ferring and Goring free from development, a long-running local cause that still defines the village. Highdown Gardens, created in a former chalk pit in the early 20th century, became a celebrated garden nearby, and today Ferring is an affluent, peaceful coastal village prized for its beach, its greensward and its setting.

Ferring through the ages

A quick timeline of the moments that shaped the town you would be buying into.

Year Milestone
Prehistory Highdown Hill is occupied from the Bronze and Iron Ages — later an Iron Age hillfort above the village.
1086 Ferring is recorded in the Domesday Book as a coastal settlement.
Saxon/Norman St Andrew’s Church is founded, carrying Saxon and Norman origins.
Early 20th century Highdown Gardens is created in a former chalk pit — a celebrated chalk garden nearby.
20th century Ferring grows as a residential village of bungalows and seafront homes on the coastal plain.
Modern day The community protects the greensward of the Goring Gap; today a quiet, sought-after coastal village.

Famous connections

A few of the people and stories that put Ferring on the map.

The greensward & the Goring Gap

The cherished open green land between Ferring and Goring that runs to the sea — a protected gap the community fought to keep, and a defining part of the village’s character.

Highdown Gardens & Highdown Hill

The famous chalk garden created in a former chalk pit, and the Iron Age hillfort on the Downs above the village with sweeping coastal views — distinctive local attractions.

St Andrew's Church

The village church with Saxon and Norman origins — a piece of Ferring’s long history at the heart of the settlement.

Looking beyond the mortgage

Buying a home in Ferring is a major commitment — and the mortgage is only part of the picture. Whatever you buy, the right protection makes sure the home stays yours if life does not go to plan.

Life cover

Pays out a lump sum if you die during the policy term — typically arranged to clear the mortgage so your family can stay in the home.

Critical illness cover

Pays out if you are diagnosed with a serious illness the policy covers — helping you keep up payments while you focus on recovery.

Income protection

Replaces part of your income if you cannot work due to illness or injury — often the most overlooked, and most valuable, cover of all.

That's Family Finance is an FCA-regulated protection adviser — life insurance, critical illness cover and income protection are what we do. We don't arrange mortgages ourselves; we introduce you to carefully selected, FCA-regulated mortgage advisers, and make sure your protection is set up properly alongside it. Talk to us →

Things people don't always tell you about Ferring

Beyond the brochure, a few honest points worth weighing before you commit to buying here.

A quiet, sought-after coastal village. A beach and seafront, the protected greensward of the Goring Gap, St Andrew’s Church and Highdown Gardens and Hill nearby, with a real village feel and Worthing and the coast within easy reach.
It’s a sought-after, affluent village. Prices are well above the national average, and there is no station in the village itself (you drive to Goring-by-Sea or Angmering) — budget accordingly and check your commute.
Check flood risk near the sea. Much of the village is at lower risk, but it is a coastal village with the Ferring Rife running through it, so the seafront and low-lying parts carry a higher (coastal and surface-water) flood risk that can affect insurance — check it for a specific home.

Ferring compared with nearby towns

How Ferring sits against the places buyers most often weigh against it — a quick, indicative comparison.

Town Rough average price Station? Character
Ferring ~£375k–£650k No (nearest Goring-by-Sea/Angmering; direct to London Victoria) Quiet, sought-after coastal village; the beach; the Goring Gap greensward; Highdown Gardens
Worthing ~£275k–£475k Yes (mainline; to London Victoria) The larger seaside town to the east, with a mainline station and the pier
Goring-by-Sea ~£325k–£525k Yes (own station; to London Victoria) The neighbouring coastal suburb to the east, with the nearest station
East Preston ~£350k–£600k No (nearest Angmering) The well-kept coastal village to the west, with its own seafront green
Rustington ~£325k–£525k No (nearest Angmering/Littlehampton) The popular coastal village further west, with a village centre and beach

Pros & cons of living in Ferring

An honest, balanced summary to weigh up.

In its favour To weigh carefully
A quiet, sought-after coastal village Prices well above the national average
The beach, the greensward & Highdown No station in the village itself
A real village feel & strong community A coastal/surface-water flood consideration near the sea
Worthing & the coast close by Larger detached & seafront homes mean substantial lending
Highdown Gardens & the Downs nearby Older/non-standard homes need careful survey & checks
Brighton & Chichester within reach A sought-after market — competition for the best homes

Villages & areas around Ferring

Many buyers who love Ferring look just outside it too — a quick guide.

The larger seaside town to the east, with its mainline station (to London Victoria).
Goring-by-Sea
The neighbouring coastal suburb to the east, with the nearest station.
The well-kept coastal village to the west, with its own seafront green.
The popular coastal village further west.
The village to the west, with its station on the Arun Valley line.
Highdown
The hill and famous gardens on the Downs just to the north.

Who tends to move to Ferring?

Understanding your fellow buyers helps you read the market and pitch an offer.

Retirees & downsizers

People wanting a quiet, sought-after coastal village with bungalows, a beach and a strong community, near Worthing and the coast, with a real sense of peace and place.

Families & professionals

People wanting a village feel with primary provision, the beach and greensward on the doorstep, and Worthing’s schools and services close by.

Coast & country lovers

People drawn to the beach, the protected greensward, the Ferring Rife and Highdown Hill and Gardens, wanting quiet coastal-village living within reach of the South Downs.

What your money buys in Ferring

A rough sense of what different budgets tend to secure — indicative only, and hugely dependent on position and condition.

Around £250,000–£360,000
A flat or smaller bungalow — the more accessible way into the village.
Around £360,000–£650,000
A bungalow, semi-detached or detached family home — the heart of the Ferring market.
£650,000 and above
A larger detached or seafront home — the top of the local market, into seven figures for the finest houses.

Your move to Ferring, step by step

A simple order of play that keeps things on track.

1. Get your budget straight

Work out your deposit and the true monthly cost (mortgage, council tax, insurance — which coastal flood risk near the sea can affect — and SDLT), and get a mortgage in principle so you can move quickly in a sought-after village.

2. Do your homework on the property

Check flood risk (especially for seafront and low-lying homes near the Rife), get a full building survey (wise on older and non-standard homes), check the school catchment, and confirm your commute — before you fall in love.

3. Line up the right people

A whole-of-market mortgage adviser, a good surveyor and a local conveyancer will save you time, money and stress. We can introduce you to the first.

Already live in Ferring?

This guide isn't just for people moving in. If you already own here, a few moments now can save a lot later.

If your current mortgage deal is within about six months of ending, it's usually worth reviewing your options rather than drifting onto your lender's standard variable rate, which is often more expensive. And whether or not you're moving, it's worth checking that your protection still matches your life. We can introduce you to a whole-of-market, FCA-regulated mortgage adviser, and review your life cover, critical illness cover and income protection alongside it.

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In summary: buying in Ferring

If you are weighing up a move to the town, here is the honest bottom line.

What you gain
A quiet, sought-after West Sussex coastal village — a seafront and beach, the cherished protected greensward of the Goring Gap that keeps Ferring and Goring apart, St Andrew’s Church with its Saxon and Norman origins, and Highdown Hill (an Iron Age hillfort) and the famous Highdown Gardens just to the north — with village amenities, a strong community, and Worthing and the coast within easy reach.
What to plan for
Well-above-average prices (with substantial lending on larger detached and seafront homes), no station in the village (you drive to Goring-by-Sea or Angmering for the direct London Victoria train), a coastal and surface-water flood-risk consideration near the seafront and the Ferring Rife (which can affect insurance), older and non-standard homes needing careful survey and checks, and that West Sussex is mostly non-selective. (Council tax is the verified Ferring-parish figure; confirm your band.)
How we help
We introduce you to carefully selected, FCA-regulated mortgage advisers who search across lenders to fit your circumstances — and we set your protection up properly alongside it.

Quick tips before you buy in Ferring

  • Enjoy the village — the beach and seafront, the greensward of the Goring Gap, St Andrew’s Church, and Highdown Gardens and Hill just to the north.
  • Plan the transport — Ferring has no station of its own; the nearest are Goring-by-Sea and Angmering (direct to London Victoria), with the A259 and A27 for the car.
  • Note the character — a quiet, affluent, retiree-heavy coastal village with a protected greensward the community fought to keep.
  • Check coastal and surface-water flood risk for seafront and low-lying homes near the Ferring Rife, and confirm insurance.
  • Confirm the council tax and band — Ferring (Ferring parish, West Sussex) Band D is £2,433.02 for 2026/27 (verified).
  • Budget realistically — prices are well above average, and larger detached and seafront homes mean substantial lending; use a whole-of-market adviser.
  • Verify the nearest current A&E (Worthing Hospital) with the NHS.
  • Get a full building survey on an older or non-standard home.
  • For schools, check catchment for the village primary provision and Worthing secondaries, and note independents on the coast.
  • Explore the beach, the greensward, Highdown Gardens and Highdown Hill to get a feel for the area.
  • Note Worthing is a short drive for wider shopping, the mainline station and the seafront, with Brighton and Chichester within reach.
  • Get a mortgage agreement in principle before you start viewing in earnest.
  • Review your protection at the same time as your mortgage — important for family buyers.
  • Take your conveyancer’s advice on flood, boundary and standard searches.

Nearby areas worth considering

If you are weighing Ferring against the surrounding area, these are the places buyers most often compare.

Worthing

The larger seaside town to the east, with its mainline station (to London Victoria).

Goring-by-Sea

The neighbouring coastal suburb to the east, with the nearest station.

East Preston

The well-kept coastal village to the west, with its own seafront green.

Family Protection

Whichever area you choose, the right life cover, critical illness cover and income protection matter just as much as the mortgage.

Talk to us →

Speak to Us

Researching Ferring or a nearby area? We are always happy to point people in the right direction.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Ferring a good place to live?
Yes — Ferring is a quiet, highly sought-after coastal village in West Sussex (BN12), on the coast immediately west of Worthing, between Goring-by-Sea and East Preston, in the Arun district. With a population of around four and a half thousand, it has a real village feel — a seafront and beach, the protected greensward of the Goring Gap on its edge, St Andrew’s Church, and Highdown Hill and Highdown Gardens just to the north. It is a notably affluent, quiet village with a high proportion of retirees. The main things to weigh are that it is sought-after (so not cheap), has no station of its own, and has a coastal and surface-water flood-risk consideration near the seafront and the Ferring Rife.
Is Ferring expensive?
It is well above the national average — overall averages are often in the region of £375,000 to £650,000, with flats and smaller bungalows offering the more accessible ways in and larger detached and seafront homes running well beyond. Its village feel, its beach and greensward, its quiet character and its position just west of Worthing all support demand. Always verify current prices via Land Registry data or independent valuation advice.
Does Ferring have a railway station?
No — Ferring does not have its own station. The nearest stations are Goring-by-Sea (just to the east, on the West Coastway line) and Angmering (to the west), both with services along the coast and direct trains to London Victoria via the Arun Valley and Gatwick. For drivers, the A259 coast road runs through the area, with the A27 and A24 a little inland. Always check current timetables at nationalrail.co.uk.
What is Ferring known for?
Ferring is known above all for its quiet seafront and beach, and for the protected greensward — the Goring Gap — the cherished stretch of open, undeveloped green land between Ferring and Goring that runs down to the sea, a long-running local cause that keeps the villages from merging. It is known too for the Ferring Rife (the little stream that runs to the sea), for St Andrew’s Church with its Saxon and Norman origins, and for Highdown Hill (an Iron Age hillfort) and the famous Highdown Gardens just to the north — a celebrated chalk garden created in a former chalk pit.
Where is the nearest A&E to Ferring?
The nearest major hospital with a 24-hour A&E is Worthing Hospital, about four miles east; St Richard’s Hospital in Chichester is a further option to the west, and there is GP provision locally. As NHS services can be reconfigured and travel times vary, always confirm current arrangements directly with the NHS.
Does Ferring have good schools?
West Sussex state schools are mostly non-selective. Ferring has village primary provision, with a wider choice of primaries and secondaries in neighbouring Goring-by-Sea and Worthing, plus independents within reach on the coast. Confirm catchment and admissions with the schools and West Sussex County Council, and read reports at reports.ofsted.gov.uk.
What salary do you need to buy in Ferring?
Using 4.5x income as a rough guide: a home around £520,000 might imply a household income in the region of £116,000, with flats and bungalows needing less and larger detached or seafront homes more — before your deposit. We can introduce you to an FCA-regulated mortgage adviser to look at your specific numbers. Get in touch →
How much is stamp duty on a Ferring property?
What you pay depends on the price and your circumstances. At Ferring’s values, SDLT is a real cost to budget for, and the additional-property surcharge adds more again for second homes. Use the government’s official SDLT calculator to get an exact figure.
How much is council tax in Ferring?
Ferring is in West Sussex, a two-tier county, so your council tax is made up of West Sussex County Council (which includes the fire and rescue service and the adult social care precept), the Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner precept, Arun District Council, and Ferring Parish Council. For the Ferring parish the Band D total for 2026/27 is £2,433.02 (verified from Arun District Council’s published council tax bands). Confirm your exact band with arun.gov.uk and the VOA.
Which police and fire services cover Ferring?
Ferring is covered by Sussex Police and the West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (which is run by West Sussex County Council, so its cost is included within the county council’s part of your council tax). For crime data by postcode, check police.uk; for fire-safety advice, contact West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.
Is Ferring a safe place to live?
Ferring is a quiet coastal village where crime varies by area and street, as anywhere. The best guide is the live data for a specific postcode — check police.uk before you offer on a property.
What is there to do in Ferring?
Walking the beach and seafront, enjoying the greensward and the Goring Gap, visiting the celebrated Highdown Gardens and walking up to Highdown Hill for the views, and exploring St Andrew’s Church and the Ferring Rife — with village shops and pubs, and Worthing, Brighton and Chichester within reach for wider shopping and leisure.
What is broadband like in Ferring?
Superfast broadband reaches much of the village, with gigabit-capable full-fibre available in parts, so it is generally well suited to home and hybrid working. Coverage can still vary by exact address, particularly in older and outlying properties, so check the specific property on the providers’ and Ofcom’s coverage checkers before you commit.
Is Ferring good for families?
Yes — it is a village with primary provision, the beach and greensward on the doorstep, a strong community, and Highdown Gardens and Hill nearby, with Worthing’s schools and services close by; the main things to weigh are the well-above-average prices, the lack of a station in the village, and the flood risk near the sea, so plan and check carefully.
Is Ferring good for commuters?
It is a quiet coastal base rather than a rail hub — Ferring has no station of its own, so most commuters drive the short distance to Goring-by-Sea or Angmering for direct trains to London Victoria via Gatwick, or into Worthing for the mainline. The A259 coast road and the A27 inland link the area for Worthing, Brighton and Chichester. It suits coastal and Worthing commuters, and London commuters happy to drive to the nearest station.
What searches should I expect when buying in Ferring?
The usual local authority, drainage and water searches and a survey — and, for a home near the seafront or the Ferring Rife, a thorough flood search (coastal and surface water) with checks on insurance; a full building survey is wise on an older or non-standard home, and on a new-build check the developer, tenure and any service charges. Take your conveyancer’s advice for the specific property.
Is flooding a problem in Ferring?
Much of the village, on higher ground away from the water, sits at lower flood risk, but Ferring is a coastal village with the Ferring Rife running through it, so the seafront and low-lying parts carry a higher (coastal and surface-water) flood risk, and surface water can affect some spots in heavy rain — so for a home near the sea or the Rife it is worth checking the exact postcode on the GOV.UK flood risk service and confirming buildings insurance before committing.
How do I get started with a mortgage for Ferring?
The simplest first step is a no-obligation chat about your budget and plans. That’s Family Finance is an FCA-regulated protection adviser and we introduce you to carefully selected, FCA-regulated mortgage advisers who search across lenders — and your protection reviewed alongside it. Get in touch →
Can existing homeowners in Ferring benefit from a mortgage review?
Yes — it’s often worth reviewing your mortgage before a deal ends rather than rolling onto a lender’s standard variable rate, which is frequently more expensive. We can introduce you to an FCA-regulated, whole-of-market mortgage adviser to check whether a better deal is available.

Useful resources

Need help?

Whether you're researching Ferring, planning a move, reviewing your finances or simply exploring your options — we're always happy to point people in the right direction.

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Written by Ben Tomlin, Financial Adviser · FCA No. 1038034 · Last reviewed July 2026

That's Family Finance is an FCA-regulated protection adviser (life insurance, critical illness cover and income protection). We do not arrange mortgages ourselves — we introduce you to carefully selected, FCA-regulated mortgage advisers.

Transport information is approximate and can change; Ferring does not have its own railway station — the nearest stations are Goring-by-Sea (on the West Coastway line, just to the east) and Angmering (to the west), both with direct trains to London Victoria via Gatwick and the Arun Valley and services along the coast to Worthing, Brighton and Chichester, with the A259 coast road through the area and the A27 and A24 a little inland — always verify current timetables at nationalrail.co.uk before travelling. Ofsted information is based on the most recent publicly available reports. West Sussex state schools are mostly comprehensive and non-selective; Ferring has village primary provision, with a wider choice of primaries and secondaries in neighbouring Goring-by-Sea and Worthing and independents within reach on the coast — confirm catchment and admissions with each school and West Sussex County Council. From September 2024 Ofsted no longer awards a single overall effectiveness grade at routine state-school inspections. Healthcare: the nearest major hospital with a 24-hour A&E is Worthing Hospital, about four miles east, with St Richard’s Hospital in Chichester a further option to the west, and GP provision locally; NHS services can be reconfigured and travel times vary, so always verify the nearest current A&E and arrangements with the NHS. References to the seafront and beach, the greensward and the Goring Gap, the Ferring Rife, St Andrew’s Church, and Highdown Hill and Highdown Gardens are for context. Crime information is general — check current data at police.uk. Flood-risk: much of Ferring, on higher ground, sits at lower flood risk, but it is a coastal village with the Ferring Rife running through it and the seafront and low-lying parts carry a higher (coastal and surface-water) flood risk which can affect insurance; always check the exact postcode at check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk and confirm buildings insurance availability and cost before committing. Council tax: Ferring is in West Sussex (a two-tier county), within Arun District Council and the Ferring parish; the Band D total for 2026/27 is £2,433.02 (verified from Arun District Council’s published council tax bands), made up of West Sussex County Council (which includes the fire and rescue service and the adult social care precept), the Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner precept, Arun District Council and Ferring Parish Council — confirm your exact band with Arun District Council. Property prices are indicative and based on recent public sold-price data — Ferring is a BN12 village where averages are often around £375,000 to £650,000 with detached and seafront homes beyond, with a wide range by property and area; verify current values via Land Registry or an independent valuation for the exact home. Salary and affordability figures are illustrative only and do not constitute financial advice. Stamp duty figures should be verified using the official GOV.UK SDLT calculator.

The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. That's Family Finance is an independent, FCA-regulated firm (No. 1038034).
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That’s Family Finance — Ferring Property & Mortgage Guide. That’s Family Finance is an FCA-regulated protection adviser (life insurance, critical illness cover and income protection). We do not arrange mortgages ourselves — we introduce you to carefully selected, FCA-regulated mortgage advisers. Written by Ben Tomlin, Financial Adviser · FCA No. 1038034. This guide is for information only and is not financial or mortgage advice. Figures change — always verify council tax with the local council, school ratings with Ofsted and journey times with the operator before you rely on them.