Many people who visit Ditchling come for the beautiful countryside that surrounds the village, latticed with walking and cycling trails – but there is more to discover than just rural pleasures. The village is steeped in the arts and crafts tradition, with a vibrant, nationally-renowned museum and a programme of art-themed events throughout the year.
Ditchling Museum of Art & Craft
The museum holds an internationally important collection of work by the artists and craftspeople who were drawn to the village, including the sculptor, wood engraver, type-designer and letter-cutter Eric Gill, the calligrapher Edward Johnston (responsible for the famous Johnston typeface used for London Underground), the painter David Jones, the printer Hilary Pepler and the weaver Ethel Mairet. The impact of the many artists and craftspeople who came to live and work in Ditchling from the beginning of the 20th century onwards established this village as one of the most important places for the visual arts and crafts in Britain. The museum has a lively programme of changing temporary exhibitions along with workshops, demonstrations and free family activities.
Lodge Hill Lane, Ditchling, BN6 8SP
Pruden and Smith Goldsmiths
The name ‘Pruden’ has been synonymous with goldsmithing in Ditchling for over eighty years, ever since Dunstan Pruden arrived in the village in 1932, and joined Eric Gill’s Guild of St Joseph and St Dominic. Dunstan’s work and tools are exhibited in the Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft, and the tradition has been carried on by his grandson, Anton Pruden and Rebecca Smith: Pruden and Smith Designer Jewellers Goldsmiths and Silversmiths was founded in 1988 and is committed to design excellence in precious metals, renown for unusual engagement rings and eternity rings.
Oldland Windmill
A beautifully restored, award-winning, working post mill in the heart of the glorious Sussex countryside, open to visitors. Open on the first Sunday of each month between April and October. In May, July and September, there are themed events with lots of special activities for adults and children. Visitors are also welcome to visit the Mill on Thursday Mornings throughout the year when volunteers are working on site and depending on the level of maintenance activity may be available to give a guided tour.
Art in Ditchling
Ditchling has a rich artistic heritage including The Guild of St Joseph & St Dominic, artist and designer Frank Brangwyn, sculptor John Skelton, calligrapher Edward Johnson and, more recently illustrators Raymond Briggs and John Vernon Lord. Many artists and makers in and around the village continue these crafts and skills and contemporary art scene thrives today.
The Art in Ditchling Trail of 13 venues showcases a range of high quality art, design and craft in houses, studios and workshops, and gives you the opportunity to meet those who create the work. The Trail will be open during weekends and bank holidays between 4th and 27th May, and we look forward to welcoming you to our creative community.
@art_in_ditchling
