Used to go to the White Knight on a Friday lunchtime when I worked for Airmiles, we nicknamed it the White Shite, says it all really. However that was a good 10 yrs ago, maybe it's different now!
I was born and raised in lancing, then moved to West Worthing, then after getting a job up here the commute was a killer, so decided to move up here back in '98. Lived in Pound Hill, Ifield, Ifield Green and now Tilgate.
Crawley is fine if you avoid living in the rough areas already mentioned. Like others I also avoid going out to the pubs and clubs in town but that's probably cos I'm 43 now so too old!
Restaurants are good as is the Cinema/bowling and shopping. The little villages in the surrounding area with their country pubs are really good and as we're on the edge of Tilage Park which is a massive country park, it doesn't really feel like we're in Crawley at all. Work is only a 15 min cycle ride away as well!
For you it depends where you need to travel to for work. if it's north of Crawley then best get a place near Three Bridges station or if your driving then stick the favoured areas already mentioned.
I think you are the only person to mention Tilgate Park on this thread, that is well worth a visit.
I'm surprised [MENTION=22488]Premiership Dream[/MENTION] didn't mention Tilgate Park in his list of likes, maybe getting fish and chips delivered is more important to him