Cultural Days Out in East Sussex
Culture vultures will be in their element when visiting this colourful corner of Sussex.
East Sussex has a rich creative history, and The Grain Store is well placed for exploring it. Discover the homes and gardens of celebrated writers and artists, spend an evening at Glyndebourne, or follow a trail of galleries, studios and festivals through Lewes and beyond. Whether you’re planning a full day out or looking for inspiration close to home, there’s plenty to discover.
The Bloomsbury Group
Step into the world of the Bloomsbury Group at Charleston Farmhouse, the richly decorated home of artists Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant. Its painted rooms, collections and gardens offer a vivid glimpse of the creative lives they shared. Nearby, Monk’s House in Rodmell was the home of Virginia Woolf, who wrote in a small lodge in its garden. Complete the journey at Berwick Church, where murals by Duncan Grant, Vanessa Bell and Quentin Bell bring the group’s artistic legacy into an unexpected setting.
Glyndebourne Opera House
Just four miles from The Grain Store, the world-famous Glyndebourne Opera House makes for a memorable evening out. Its celebrated summer Festival runs from May to August, pairing opera with the pleasure of strolling through the gardens and enjoying a picnic or dinner during the long interval. Glyndebourne also hosts an autumn season of opera, concerts and other performances, giving visitors another chance to experience this remarkable venue later in the year. Check the website for the latest programme and booking details.
National Trust properties
For a day out steeped in literary history, visit Sissinghurst Castle Garden, the former home of poet and writer Vita Sackville-West. Wander through its beautiful garden rooms, each with its own character, and discover the place that inspired so much of her writing. Bateman’s, the Jacobean home of Rudyard Kipling, offers a different kind of escape. Explore the rooms where he lived and worked, then take a stroll through the gardens and surrounding countryside. Both National Trust properties make memorable day trips from Lewes.
Charleston Literary Festival
Every May, the Charleston Festival brings writers, artists and thinkers together for a lively programme of talks, conversations and workshops. Set in the grounds of Charleston, the former home of Bloomsbury artists Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant, it offers a chance to hear celebrated voices discuss books, art and the ideas shaping our world. It’s a lovely day out even between events, with time to explore the house and garden. Popular talks can sell out quickly, so it’s worth checking the Charleston website when the programme and tickets are released.
Art lovers
Art lovers will find plenty to explore across Sussex. In Eastbourne, the Towner Gallery celebrates the work of Eric Ravilious, whose paintings capture the distinctive landscapes of the South Downs. Closer to home, Charleston in Lewes offers a changing programme of exhibitions, bringing art and ideas into the heart of the town. For a more intimate glimpse into the lives of two remarkable artists, visit Farleys House & Gallery, the former home of Surrealist Roland Penrose and photographer Lee Miller, where art, photography and personal history come together.
Artwave
Each September, Artwave invites visitors to explore the creative side of Lewes and its surrounding towns and villages. Artists and makers open their studios, homes and shared exhibition spaces, offering a chance to see where work is made, meet the people behind it and perhaps find something special to take home. Follow one of the festival trails and discover everything from painting, printmaking and illustration to ceramics, jewellery, textiles and sculpture. With venues ranging from town centre galleries to unexpected spaces in the countryside, it’s a wonderful way to spend a day exploring the area. Check the festival guide for the latest venues and opening times.
East Sussex Events
There’s always something happening in and around Lewes. From the spectacle of Lewes Bonfire to the music of Love Supreme Festival and the open studios of Artwave, the area’s calendar is full of reasons to visit throughout the year. Smaller exhibitions, performances, markets and community events offer plenty more to discover during your stay. Explore the websites below for upcoming events in Lewes and across East Sussex, and check dates and booking details before you travel.
Lewes Bonfire Portrait by Carlotta Luke
