From the Bloomsbury group visiting Firle to artists & makers setting up studios in Ditchling, our area of the South Downs has long been a place to slow down and seek inspiration.

And you can do it to, with a slow weekend in East Sussex. We’ve pulled together our favourite slow-past times and places to stay for you to make the most of a trip to the county.

WALKING ON THE SOUTH DOWNS

Getting onto the top of the South Downs is a must-do for any East Sussex weekender, whether you want a post-lunch-leg stretch or to fill a whole morning.

With views towards the twinkling blue sea and across rolling Sussex landscape, the scenery below is a constant companion and, as Virginia Woolf puts it, makes walking feel like floating in happiness.

If you are visiting by train, head to Lewes and then stride eastwards. You can quickly leave the town behind and walk up onto the Downs. There is a two-hour loop up to Mount Caburn and other footpaths that can take the more adventurous as far as Firle. 

Ditchling Beacon is a great spot to park up on the South Downs way for those with a car. You can either walk west towards the Jack & Jill windmill and Devil’s Dyke, or go head east towards Lewes. There are a number of loops available too.

You can also base yourself at Artelium for a walk. Here are a few of our favourite routes. And, of course, the best bit is a glass of wine and a bite to eat at the end of it.

CULTURAL MOMENTS: GALLERIES & EXHIBITIONS TO EXPLORE

East Sussex is lucky to have some world-class gallery spaces, all unique in what they showcase and in style. If you are heading our to explore, don’t forget to look at the Sussex Art Shuttle, a hop-on-hop-off bus connecting some of the best spots.

BEST PLACES FOR A GLASS OF ENGLISH WINE IN EAST SUSSEX

1. Fourth & Church, Hove: A stylish wine bar and restaurant in the heart of Hove inspired by the noisy bars of Sevilla and Jerez. A great range of English wines, among others, and delicious small plates and tapas.

2. Artelium, Streat: How could we not include ourselves? With stunning views across the South Downs and the exceptional wines to match, it is the Sussex Winelands at it’s best.

3. Jolly Sportsman, East Grinstead: A classic Country pub with delicious English wines by the glass. Sit out in the beer garden or at the bar, before moving to the dining room for dinner.

4. Symposium, Lewes: A wine shop-come-bar with a relaxed atmosphere - perfect for enjoying great and unique wines alike. Often have English wines available by the glass.

WHERE TO STAY: COUNTRY PUBS & B&Bs

Of course, there are no shortage of places to stay in the South Downs. But it’s the quiet old country pubs with great food and well-stocked bars that can play host to the most relaxing evenings. 

Here are some of our favourites which are not too far from the Estate and are great bases for exploring East Sussex.