SX Ex No 11 v3 comp

Discover Adur

Dip your toes in the water

with seashells and gin,

frescoes and food fairs

48 hours in

Eastbourne

Discover tea gardens and

Martello Towers, seafront

dining and one of the

prettiest villages in the UK

Issue 11 2025

Lose yourself

in the forests

of Sussex

Sussex forest bathing expert,

Helena Skoog, explains the

health benefits of trees

Relax, Unwind and

Just Breathe

7

wonderful ways to

relax and unwind

The Wonders

of the Weald

Discover the secrets of

an ancient landscape

In Conversation with

Dr Alexandra Loske

The inspiration behind

the stunning new Colour

exhibition at the

Royal Pavilion

Food & Folklore

Treats and temptations for

a taste 98 of pages the Good of Things

of Sussex beautiful Sussex

92 pages of

beautiful Sussex

Beautifully crafted

HAND-MADE

timber windows & doors

A word

from the editor

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Editor

Lucy Pitts

lucyp@sussexexclusive.com

Deputy Editor

Janine Marsh

Content Editor

Aifric Peachey

Design

Philippa French

Sales

sales@sussexexclusive.com

Sussex Exclusive Magazine

www.sussexexclusive.com

Take a deep breath, one and all. The nights and the

mornings are getting lighter and at the time of

writing (whilst we might be slightly underwater),

the first shoots of spring have put in an appearance.

I love all the optimism that spring brings to Sussex

as well as the abundance of wild garlic, bluebells, hawthorn

blossom and first lambs. It may be a cliché but it’s a glorious

cliché and definitely one to celebrate.

To help you squeeze the most out of this wonderful season,

in this edition we have lots of inspiration for you: from our

two 48-hour itineraries in Adur and Eastbourne (packed with

great food, local culture and the great outdoors) to wellness

experiences, spring gardens and Sussex walks. If exploring is up

your street, why not also go hunting for some of the treasures

you’ll find in the Sussex Weald or visit some of the county’s

oldest attractions.

For the foodies, we have natural wines, sustainable eating,

recipes made with foraged ingredients, some folklore inspired

food as well as a couple of great local restaurants to visit.

We’ve also got our usual life advice section which takes a look

at the idea of leaving a legacy as well as our Sussex quiz and

lots more besides.

I hope you get a chance to explore Sussex this season and I

hope you enjoy exploring this edition of the Sussex Exclusive

Magazine as much as we enjoyed putting it together. Don’t

forget to follow us on social media for lots more ideas from the

quirky, the unusual and the off the beaten track to the best in

class of what Sussex has to offer. Best spring wishes to you all.

Lucy

Lucy Pitts

Front Cover

www.timberwindowshorsham.co.uk

Arundel Tulip Festival

& Cathedral

enquiries@timberwindowshorsham.co.uk

Pantone

5497C

Black

3

Contents

44

8 In the Diary

From star gazing and jazz evenings to

immersive exhibitions, food festivals, light

shows and lambing, get a few dates in

your diary.

44 Age is But a Number

Visit the oldest trees, meet the oldest

man and drink in the oldest pubs. Sussex

history dates back thousands of years.

13 48 Hours in Adur

Pack your bags for a weekend of beach

walking & water sports or cultural exploring,

Medieval frescoes & Art Deco architecture.

46

46 Colour: in Conversation with

Dr Alexandra Loske

The curator of the new Colour exhibition

at the Royal Pavilion explains more about

what to expect and why it’s important.

8

18 48 hours in Eastbourne

Head to one of the sunniest places in

England for 48 hours of stunning coastal

walks, historic buildings and great local wine.

51 Food and Folklore

Take inspiration from the famous Seven

Good Things of Sussex for a folklore

inspired menu.

13

23 In Conversation with

Helena Skoog

Talks to the trees and lose yourself in the

woods and improve your wellbeing with this

Sussex Forest Bathing guide.

54

54 Bakes and Cakes

Get in the kitchen with some foraged

ingredients and make these delicious

elderflower muffins.

26 Relax, Unwind & Just Breathe

From sound bathing to retreats, step away

from the hustle and bustle of life with these

unique wellbeing experiences.

58 Deer Dilemma

A more sustainable approach to deer

management and nutrition with venison

burgers and stew.

33 Put a Spring in Your Step

Get out in the Sussex countryside this

spring and enjoy bluebells and blossom

with one of these gorgeous Sussex walks.

58

72 In the Library

Meet Brownlow and Sophie, the Sussex

pet detectives in the latest book by Sussex

author Judy Upton.

23

37 The Wonders of the Weald

From Medieval churches and hunting

grounds, to follies and viaducts, the Weald is

an ancient landscape perfect for exploring.

76 Spring Garden Inspiration

Head to one of the stunning NGS Sussex

gardens that are opening this spring and

support a good cause.

37

42 Easter

From the very first Easter egg and hot

cross bun to the very latest egg hunt and

hot cross bun workshops.

85

85 Travel: Exploring

Saint Gervais

Try snow walking and skiing or just enjoy

grand Baroque churches, local produce

and a thermal spa on this spring break.

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Contributors

Ride

&

Dine

Geoff Stonebanks

Janine Lowe

Stuart Ritchie

With Marmalade MTB

Geoff’s garden, Driftwood, has

appeared on BBC2’s Gardeners’

World, and has won multiple

awards. He writes monthly for

several websites and gardening

media and has a weekly gardening

column in the Brighton Argus and

is regularly heard on the radio.

www.driftwoodbysea.co.uk.

Sarah Thompson

Sarah moved to Sussex in 2008 to

start a new career in wine & spirits.

This quickly led to the creation

of Sussex's first gin and distillery

in over two centuries. Since then,

Sarah has also mentored food and

beverage SMEs developing brands

and recently, returned to the

world of TV and film working on

productions world-wide.

www.sussexkitchen.co.uk

Janine Lowe is an author and

classically trained Feng Shui

consultant, trained in Chinese

astrology and in the arts of Bazi,

Flying Stars, Auspicious Dates, Qi

Men Dun Jia and I Ching. For the

last 19 years she has worked with

private and business clients to

enhance their wealth, relationships,

careers and everything in between.

www.janinelowe.co.uk

Becci Coombes

Becci spent her childhood holidays

on the family farm in Denmark, and

grew up with a love for all things

Scandinavian. Originally she trained

as an archaeologist (Vikings, of

course!), before travelling the

world and becoming a successful

glass artist. She now runs

www.hyggestyle.co.uk, an online

boutique in Sussex specialising in

Danish and Scandinavian gifts. She

is the author of three craft books

focusing on upcycling.

Expert Tax Advisor helping clients

manage their wealth, minimise

tax bills, and solve tax disputes

& financial problems. Stuart

specialises in private client taxation

and has considerable experience

and expertise with an emphasis

on agreeing complex taxation

issues, both onshore and offshore,

and helping clients achieve their

financial objectives.

www.ritchiephillips.co.uk

Holly Stone

Holly runs a busy practice in

Billingshurst and online. Specialising

in Solution Focused Hypnotherapy,

Eating Disorder Coaching and CBTi

she is hoping to bring a team to

Horsham’s Total Therapy Studio later

this year to offer 1-2-1 and group

support to those who are struggling

with stress and associated issues.

www.hollystonehypnotherapy.co.uk

Join us for a fully guided bike ride in the stunning South Downs National

Park followed by lunch at one of two of the county’s best country restaurants

Exploring the South Downs by bike is

exhilarating, exciting and very rewarding

and with a professional guide by your

side, cyclists of any ability can enjoy the

thrill of the trails along with stunning

views and sense of wellbeing that goes with

conquering the great outdoors.

An exhilarating ride

Join us for a three-hour bike ride through some of

the most beautiful scenery in Sussex. We can provide

the bikes and then guide you along the best trails,

pacing the ride to match your level of confidence

and ability. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or

just starting out, you will love the diversity of the

Sussex trails and the sense of freedom and space.

The best of local produce and menus

We don’t just know the best trails, we also know

the best places for lunch. We offer a choice of two

trails, one of which takes you to the picture postcard

village of Alfriston in East Sussex. Known for being

one of the prettiest villages in England, you’ll enjoy

lunch at The Star, a 15 th century inn owned and run

by Alex Polizzi and known for its relaxed but stylish

restaurant and outstanding menu.

Or join us in West Sussex, where we’ll ride to the

Wiston Wine Estate right in the heart of the South

Downs and not far from enigmatic Chanctonbury

Ring. Here, you’ll enjoy lunch at their stunning

Michelin star Chalk Restaurant. You might even

want to try one of their locally grown and produced

wines or visit their tasting rooms.

A Marmalade MTB Ride and Dine experience

is about getting off the beaten track, enjoying

incredible experiences and learning new skills. All

washed down with the best local produce and great

company in heart of the beautiful county of Sussex.

To find more or to book, visit:

marmalademtb.com


In the

Diary

With the evenings getting lighter and the first signs of spring bursting into life,

it’s a great time of year to fill your diary with wonderful things to do

Free Laser Light Show,

Petworth Park

15 February

To start the half term holidays, there

will be two colourful laser light shows,

each lasting approximately 20 minutes.

Petworth House will be lit up with lasers,

with music synchronised to the lights.

During the day, Petworth House will

be open for free from 10.30am until

3.30pm. From 11am until 3.30pm there

will be free drop-in crafts in The Battery

House, where children will be able to get

creative, inspired by the laser shows. In

addition, there will be entertainment in

The Courtyard from 3.30pm – 4.30pm

and a free silent disco held in The Battery

House from 4pm – 5pm (pre-booking

required) plus local vendors providing

food and drink.

and around Rye showcase an array of

different scallop dishes.

Rye Bay scallops are usually served in

many restaurants in the area throughout

the scallop season so if you can’t wait

for Rye Bay Scallop Week, contact the

restaurants on Rye Bay Scallop Week

website to see if scallops are on the menu.

South Downs Dark Skies Festival

13 to 23 February

Celebrate the sparkling lights of the

stars, planets, meteors and moon in

the night sky. This year’s Festival is also

about becoming aware of the small,

positive moments in our lives that

don’t have to be big or dramatic but

moments that encourage feelings of

happiness, contentment, peace, joy,

wonder and awe. There are a host of

events organised for the week details

of which you can find on the South

Downs National Park website.

Chichester950: Religion,

Rebellion and Reformation

14 February – 15 November

2025 marks the 950th anniversary of the

formation of the Diocese of Chichester

and the beginning of the construction

of Chichester Cathedral. Whether

you’re religious or not, this marks a

significant moment in the history of

Sussex, both East and West. As part of

a year-long programme of celebrations

(Chichester950), The Reverend Canon

Vanessa Baron is curating a fascinating

exhibition, Religion, Rebellion &

Reformation. The exhibition will include

an extraordinary collection of stories

and artefacts from across East and West

Sussex that pepper the history of Sussex

and illustrate the meaning of Christianity,

humanity and human endeavour.

Dark Skies Festival

Chichester Cathedral

Exhibit at Chichester

Cathedral

The Reverend Canon

Vanessa Baron

Neal Richardson Jazz Trio,

Tottington Manor, Henfield

22 February

Enjoy a night of top-quality jazz with

Neal Richardson. Richardson is a

powerful and rhythmic professional

pianist/vocalist playing jazz, blues and

originals, and an award-winning Producer.

Having performed for 8 years running

in the London Jazz Festival, including

Ronnie Scott’s, he recently launched his

second album “The Maximalist”.

He and his band have a great swinging

style influenced by Oscar Peterson, Nat

King Cole and Gene Harris, and his

voice has shades of Georgie Fame and

Ray Charles.

Rye Bay Scallop Week, Rye

22 February to 2 March

Rye Bay Scallop Week in Rye, East

Sussex offers the perfect opportunity to

indulge in seafood delights! Throughout

Rye Bay Scallop Week, restaurants in

Lambing, Coombes Farm,

Lancing

15 March to 21 April

There will be lambing in the barns where

you can watch them go out into the

fields. With 800 ewes lambing, they will

produce about 1,400 lambs. 40 Sussex

cows are calving at the same time.

Rye Bay

Scallop week

Lambing


Here and Now, There and Then by

Nigel Hall, The Towner, Eastbourne

Until 23 March

Towner Eastbourne presents a selection

of sculpture, prints and drawings by

internationally renowned artist Nigel Hall

(b.1943). The exhibition includes some

of his earliest American desert landscape

sketches from the late 1960s, alongside

a number of large-scale drawings, and

the newest sculptural works, through

which he has been exploring an interest in

computer-modelling.

Colour, Royal Pavilion, Brighton

21 March to October

Embark on a captivating journey through

the Royal Pavilion with Colour. Step back

into George IV’s era, when colour wasn’t

just seen—it was felt. Wander through

rooms where rich, diverse shades create

a full sensory immersion, blending light,

sound, and texture. From bold and glossy

to mindful and demure, this exhibition

will take you on a fascinating journey

through the Pavilion. With exciting artist

collaborations, workshops and events to

enhance the experience.

Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea,

Amberley Castle

29 to 30 March

Celebrate this Mother’s Day with a lavish

Nyetimber Afternoon Tea. Tuck into a

selection of treats paired with a glass of

English sparkling wine and end your

afternoon with a leisurely stroll through

the picturesque castle grounds filled with

blooming daffodils.

Undersea Exhibition,

Hastings Contemporary

29 March to September

Exploring the mysteries, myths

Colour, Royal

Pavilion, Brighton

Amberley Castle

Hastings

Contemporary

Exterior

© Euan-Baker

and life that lurk beneath the

waves, Undersea brings together

paintings, prints, drawings and objects

from across different cultures and artistic

movements. Undersea follows Seaside

Modern (2021) and Seafaring (2022) to

complete a trilogy of exhibitions curated

by renowned art historian James Russell.

Dive into an underwater world and

explore over 75 artworks that span four

centuries and a range of cultures.

Arundel Castle Tulip Festival

April – precise date TBC

One of the most magnificent tulip festivals

in the country, the Arundel Castle Tulip

Festival is a chance to see the grounds of

the castle and the Earl’s Garden awash with

thousands of brightly coloured flowers and

over 120 varieties of tulips.

Sussex Food Festival, DoubleTree

by Hilton Brighton Metropole,

Brighton

12 April

From the creators of the UK's largest

Gin Festival comes an exciting new

experience: Sussex Food Festival! This

festival is a celebration of food produced,

sourced and served locally in Sussex.

Across two sessions, enjoy top Sussex

restaurant pop-ups, local artisan market

stalls, celebrity chef demonstrations,

Sussex craft beers and fine wines, an

original cocktail bar, live entertainment,

and a kids' cooking club. Don't miss this

ultimate foodie event taking place on

Brighton's iconic seafront.

Time: Family-friendly lunch session

(1:00pm - 5:00pm), adults-only

dinner session (6:00pm - 11:00pm).

For more info or to book:

www.sussexfoodfestival.co.uk

Pour Choices Wine Fair, Brighton

12 April

Brighton’s first and only natural wine

fair celebrates sustainable and lowintervention

winemaking, spotlighting

passionate producers from across the UK.

A unique opportunity to taste exceptional

wines, meet winemakers, and delve into

the world of natural wine.

Forest of Stars, Herons Ghyll

19 April

An evening of forest bathing and mindful

stargazing in a mini retreat with Helena

Skoog and Mark Westmoquette. A

chance to rediscover a sense of belonging

and connection.

Spring Live!

Ardingly Showground

26 and 27 April

Featuring live and interactive

entertainment, hundreds of shopping

stalls, a food hall, and mouth-watering

artisan treats from independent

producers. There are plenty of activities

for younger visitors to get involved with,

including the opportunity to meet a

variety of farm animals, participate in

chocolate and circus skills workshops,

have a go at wand making, and experience

the thrill of the funfair. There will also be

an Alpaca Show, flyball, Morris dancing, a

dog show, archery and axe throwing.

Sussex Food Festival

Arundel, Tulip

Festival

10 | sussexexclusive.com

11

48 HOURS

2024/25

OPEN

MORNING

SATURDAY 8

MARCH 2025

Adur is a small Sussex

district on the coast in

between Brighton and

Hove, and Worthing.

Over half of Adur is

within the South Downs National Park

and the district is dissected by the river

Adur. Adur District encompasses three

main towns: Shoreham, Lancing and

Southwick. In terms of history, the river

Adur was once a wide tidal river that

served a busy port at Steyning just to the

48 Hours

in Adur

north. Salt production was important

here and later, smuggling was rife.

Old Shoreham dates back to pre-

Roman times and New Shoreham

was founded by the Norman invaders

of the 11th century. King Charles II

famously escaped Parliamentary forces

via Shoreham in 1651. So whilst Adur

District might be small, it has a heady

combination of interesting history and

stunning landscapes perfect for a 48-hour

mini break.

Clockwise, Shoreham:

Marlipins Museum

Tiny doors are:

Adur portals

T 01403 246555 | E hello@christs-hospital.org.uk | www.christs-hospital.org.uk

Christ’s Hospital, Horsham, West Sussex, RH13 0LJ

12 | sussexexclusive.com Registered Charity No.: 1120090

13

To the Fort

Shoreham Aircrash

Memorial

Shoreham houseboat

48 HOURS

48 HOURS

Friday afternoon arrival

Marlipins Museum in Shoreham is open

from 1st May and is a good place to

start. It is housed in the oldest secular

building in Britain which dates back to

the 12th century and is understood to

have been used as a toll or custom house

for the port and markets. These days it

is home to all sorts of exhibits including

objects collected from shipwrecks and

sinister-looking medical instruments.

From the museum, head to the Adur

Ferry Bridge. Before you cross, look for a

series of tiny doors to your right. Known

as the Adur Portals, they were designed

by local Sculptor Teresa Martin to create

the idea of passageways under the road.

Next, head straight on over the bridge to

the seafront and Shoreham beach. From

there you can walk east to Shoreham

Fort (built in June 1857) and Shoreham

Harbour. The fort was converted into

a film studio in 1915 and for almost a

decade Shoreham led the way for British

film-making. There is also a small section

of WWI training trench you can walk

through. The beach is a designated Local

Nature Reserve with a boardwalk all

along it. It’s about 2 km from north of

the bridge to the fort with some fabulous

seafront houses to admire. Check fort

opening times which are limited.

For dinner

Try In The Blue for a family run

restaurant that serves great seafood.

Alternatively, go to Wild Lemon in

Brunswick Road for a modern and

internationally inspired menu.

Saturday morning

de Haura church which was founded by

the Normans. Just round the corner is

Shoreham Art Gallery and the Tarmount

Studio Emporium which is great for

some vintage finds.

Before the morning is over, cross over the

bridge once more and walk west along

the river path where you’ll see about 40

extraordinary houseboats which include a

boat made out of an ambulance and one

that looks like a fish.

Shoreham boats

Shoreham church

first approach. You can also stay there at

their farmhouse.

Alternatively, Brighton Gin is right on

the border of Shoreham in Portslade

and just about walkable from Shoreham

town. They offer tours.

Saturday afternoon

Get active

On Saturday afternoon you have choices

depending on how active you like to

be. For the sporty, why not try paddle

boarding at Lancing or Shoreham or for

the brave, have a go at kitesurfing. If you

just want to muck about on the beach,

from 1st May to 30th September there

are dedicated swimming zones at Lancing

Beach, Shoreham Beach, Widewater

Beach and Southwick Beach.

Alternatively, take a boat trip out to

Rampion Wind Farm or hire a bike,

and head out to Old Shoreham where

you can pick up the Downs Link which

runs along the river Adur to Bramber,

Steyning and beyond.

A cultural trail

If you’re not so keen on the water, then

head off for a bit of culture.

Start in Old Shoreham and visit the

church which has been there since 900

AD. There is a map in the church which

shows some of the other old buildings in

Old Shoreham and you can also cross the

Toll Bridge which first opened in 1781.

It’s near the Airshow Memorial.

From there, head on to Lancing Chapel.

This is a Grade I Listed building which

took over 150 years to complete. It stands

proud on the South Downs for all to see.

The apex of the vault rises to 27.4 m and

the chapel is the world’s largest school

chapel. It is stunning inside and open to

the public daily throughout the year from

10 am to 4 pm, and 12 noon to 4 pm on

Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Lancing Chapel

Tarmount Studio

Emporium

Brighton Gin

Shoreham has an award winning market

which is open on the 2nd and 4th

Saturday of the month and is a great

place to discover local produce. From

the market you can see and visit St Mary

For foodies

If you want to visit a local vineyard,

Titch Hill is the nearest and it’s a

sustainable wine producer with a nature-


48 HOURS

From the chapel, head along wiggly

Coombes Road and make your way to

Coombes Church a short distance away.

This church dates back to the 11th century

and on the walls are a number of important

wall paintings from the same period. The

church bell is also 11th century and is

possibly the oldest in Sussex. It is believed

to have been made in Normandy.

Finally, on your way back to Shoreham,

stop at Brighton City Airport, the world’s

first commercial airport which has a

gloriously Art Deco café from where you

can watch the planes take off just feet away.

Saturday evening

Check in with the Ropetackle Centre

in the centre of Shoreham which has an

ongoing programme of events.

For dinner

For a truly beach vibe, Perch on Lancing

Beach has a relaxed atmosphere and

great views.

Sunday morning

You can’t visit this part of the world

without a walk on the South Downs.

Lancing Ring is a local nature reserve

that gets its name from a ring of beeches

planted in the late 18th century and

inspired by nearby Cissbury Ring. From

here, you can do a shorter walk around

the nature reserve or stretch your legs

for longer by walking north west towards

Steyning, enjoying stunning views as you go.

Sunday afternoon

Before you start to make your way home,

there is just time for a quick afternoon

stop at the Tap House back in Shoreham

where you can try a number of locally

made beers.

Festivals and fairs

• Adur Festival – May / June

• Shoreham Wordfest – October

Places to stay

• Sussex Beach House

• Hotel at Home in Shoreham by Sea

• Titch Hill

• Findon Manor

• The Tollgate Hotel, Bramber

Travel

Trains run directly from London to

Shoreham and take between 1¼ and 2 hrs.

For more information about Adur

District:

• Things To Do In Shoreham-by-Sea

• Shoreham by Sea – a Bit of History

and Hip!

• King Charles III Shoreham

Coastal Walk

• Foodie Shoreham by Sea

Breakfast at Perch

Coombes Church

Coombes Church

frescoe

Brighton City Airport

with Art Deco café

Experience

Timeless Luxury in the

Heart of Sussex

Relax, recharge and reconnect at this retro style retreat

You’ll find The Laundry in the

picturesque downland village of

Jevington, close to Eastbourne, Beachy

Head and the iconic Seven Sisters, and

within the South Downs National Park.

With both the South Downs Way and an awardwinning

local pub within easy walking distance, it is

the perfect base from which to explore East Sussex.

Beautifully designed with warm, vibrant colours,

local art and a retro feel, The Laundry sleeps up

to four people and comes with sumptuous linens,

and everything you need for a luxurious stay. Enjoy

morning coffee or local wine in the courtyard garden

or cosy up on the sofa with a good book after a

winter walk on the Downs. With a fully equipped

kitchen, sumptuous bath and plenty of space to relax

after a day spent exploring, The Laundry is all about

recharging and a sense of wellbeing.

The Laundry gets its name from once having

been the laundry for the famous Hungry Monk

restaurant, the birthplace of banoffee pie which

you can still enjoy in the local pub. Jevington

itself dates back to Neolithic times and its

flintstone cottages and Medieval church were once

the haunt of notorious smugglers. These days, it’s

a peaceful haven just off the beaten track but still

within easy reach of the many local historic and

cultural attractions.

The owners of The Laundry Jevington are

committed to promoting sustainability and ecofriendly

practices and believe that luxury and

sustainability can coexist. You’ll find they use plantbased

cleaning products, premium hypoallergenic

linens, mattresses and pillows, bamboo bedding and

unbleached bamboo toilet paper to ensure a healthy

environment and reduced waste. There is also an onsite

EV charger for guests with electric vehicles.

“What a fantastic base to explore the South Downs.

Beautifully and thoughtfully presented cottage, we

had a wonderful time.”

Facilities include two bedrooms, two bathrooms, free

Wi-Fi, parking and The Laundry is also dog friendly.

There is plenty of information on the website and

the cottage to help you explore this stunning corner

of Sussex.

For more information or to book visit:

www.thelaundryjevington.co.uk

Or www.instagram.com/the_laundry_jevington


48 HOURS

48 HOURS

walk is about 4 km from the pier (but

don’t forget you have to walk back).

For dinner

Having built up your appetite with all

that walking, Bistrot Pierre is right on the

seafront with views of the cliffs or try Cru

in Hyde Gardens; it’s a wine shop, wine

bar and restaurant.

48 Hours in

Eastbourne

Soverign Harbour

Views towards

Eastbourne

Eastbourne, in East Sussex,

prides itself on being the

sunniest place in the UK.

Whether it is or not doesn’t

really matter because it also

happens to be the gateway to the dramatic

scenery of the South Downs and Sussex

coast, with a buzzing cultural scene,

beautiful architecture and some fabulous

foodie hotspots.

The town has a long history, so long in

fact there are the remains of a Roman

bath and a Roman villa under its streets.

William the Conqueror’s half-brother

arrived after the Norman conquest and

thereafter the area gradually developed

with a market, a manor house and a

church. You can still visit the old church

in Eastbourne Old Town.

The 18th century saw the town begin to

make the move to becoming a fashionable

seaside resort with visits from King George

III’s children in 1780. But it was the arrival

of the railway in 1849 that saw Eastbourne

emerge as the town it is now and the

seafront is still lined with Victorian hotels.

And if you want to get away from it all for

48 hours, there is lots to explore.

Wish Tower

The Grand Hotel

The Towner

Eastbourne

Friday afternoon arrival

Arrive as early as you can and use the

afternoon to get your bearings. Perhaps

start at the 19th century pier and walk

along the seafront. If you walk south

west, look out for the stunning 1930s

bandstand where they hold lots of

outdoor concerts and musical events.

Carry on towards the hill ahead and you

will come to the Martello Tower (Wish

Tower) and shortly after that you will be

able to see the Grand Hotel on your right.

It’s not hard to see why she’s known as the

White Palace. From there you can walk

on along the wide seafront promenade all

the way to the Holywell Tea Chalet and

the Italian Garden. It’s about 2.2 km from

the pier. And if you want a real adventure

you can walk along the rocky shore to

Beachy Head lighthouse. Although it’s

not far, it’s a difficult walk that requires

careful planning (because of the tides).

Back at the pier, if you walk north east,

you can walk to Sovereign Harbour and

see another Martello Tower. Perhaps stop

for a drink overlooking the marina. This

Saturday morning

Start the day with a little culture and a

stroll along to the Towner Eastbourne. It

opens at 10 am and is an art gallery and

education hub. It has one of the most

important collections of public art in

southern England and hosted the 2023

Turner Prize. Entry is free and they have

an ongoing programme of exhibitions.

The outside is painted in striking colours,

known as Dance Diagonal by German

artist Lothar Götz.


48 HOURS

48 HOURS

• Airbourne International Airshow –

August

• Eastbourne Feastival – August

• Eastbourne Steam Punk Festival –

September

• Eastbourne Walking Festival –

September

• Eastbourne Beer Festival – October

Saturday afternoon

You could spend the afternoon exploring

the smaller art galleries and shops

like Da Vinci Hotel & Art Gallery in

Howard Square, Mr Gifts’ Emporium in

Terminus Road or Barley Sugar a luxury

food, fine wines and antiques shop in

Cornfield Terrace.

However, it wouldn’t be a visit to

Eastbourne without a trip to Beachy

Head. You can walk, but it’s easier to hop

on a bus from the station.

Beachy Head is the highest chalk sea cliff

in Britain at 162 m above sea level. From

the cliff top you can see the distinctive

red and white lighthouse far below. You

can also walk further west along the

undulating cliffs to Belle Tout, another

lighthouse. In fact, if you’re brave, you

can walk along the South Downs Way to

Birling Gap and then along the famous

Seven Sister cliffs. It’s 7 km and you

can catch the bus back from Exceat.

Alternatively, just walk back from Beachy

Head into Eastbourne via the stunning

coastal path.

Saturday evening

Make sure you book tickets for a show.

Eastbourne has a number of theatres

including Congress Theatre, Devonshire

Park Theatre, the Winter Garden and

the Royal Hippodrome Theatre. The

Seven Sisters

Beachy Head

lighthouse

town also has two cinemas so plenty to

entertain you.

For dinner

For fine dining make your way to the

Mirabelle Restaurant at The Grand or

Port Hotel on the seafront.

Sunday morning

Time to explore the wider area.

North west of Eastbourne, you’ll find

Michelham Priory just outside the town

of Hailsham and the village of Upper

Dicker. The priory was founded in the

13th century and the rooms are set up to

reflect different eras in its history. There

are also extensive grounds and gardens to

explore including the kitchen, Physic and

Medieval gardens. There is an ongoing

programme of events here and look out

for some of the sculptures.

Michelham Priory

Rathfinny Vineyard

Alfriston

Sunday afternoon

Head to Alfriston next. This hopelessly

pretty village has dozens of historic

buildings lining the streets and is a great

place for a bite to eat. The Star is famous

for its celebrity owner, Alex Polizzi,

but there are plenty of other top-notch

places to eat. Make sure you visit the

bookshop, Much Ado About Books and

the village store and then head out to

Rathfinny, the nearby vineyard for some

wine tasting.

Festivals and fairs

Throughout the year there are a number

of special festivals held in or near

Eastbourne and you might want to

coincide your visit with one of these.

• Eastbourne International Film Festival

– March

• Beer and Cider by the Sea – May

Places to stay

• Cumberland Hotel

• Port Eastbourne

• Alexandra Hotel Eastbourne

• The Grand

• Langham Hotel

Travel

Mainline trains travel direct from

London and Gatwick to Eastbourne.

Journey times from London are approx.1

hour 20 mins.

For more information about

Eastbourne:

• 10 of the Best Things To Do Near

Eastbourne

• Exploring Eclectic Eastbourne

• Exploring Beachy Head


The

Sussex Exclusive Quiz

How carefully have you read Issue 11

of the Sussex Exclusive magazine?

The answers to all ten questions are within!

1. What is a 'wheatear'?

2. Where can you find the Martello

Tower known locally as the

'Wish Tower'?

3. How many semi-circular arches form

the Ouse Valley Viaduct?

4. In which town is Philip Jackson's

sculpture 'Dante'?

5. Who designed and created The

Periwinkle Shelter in Selsey?


6. Which king is associated with

Brighton Pavilion?

7. Lancing Chapel is the world's

largest what?

8. Where was the world's first

commercial airport?

9. Which Sussex windmill is also known

as Beard's Mill or Heritage Mill?

10. What was Edward Vaughan Hyde

Kenealy most famous for?

A Visit to the Forest

On a blisteringly cold day

in January, I turned off

a busy road onto a long,

very bumpy and fairly icy

farm track somewhere

in the depths of Sussex. I was going to

meet Helena Skoog of Forest Bathing

Sussex. I knew she lives off grid in

ancient woodland but somehow, I wasn’t

expecting it to be quite so remote.

Eventually, I found myself in the most

delightful forest clearing in front of a

little wooden cabin. Outside there was a

pot boiling merrily on a fire, a sign that

pointed to Mossy Bottom and winter

sunlight glinting through the trees.

I’d met Helena before, at one of her forest

bathing experiences in Midhurst, and

now she welcomed me inside what can

only be described as one of those perfectly

cosy and snug cabins that you see

Lucy Pitts meets Sussex forest bathing guide,

Helena Skoog, to talk about the language of trees

It’s the

ultimate

safe place.

Forest

bathing is

also a great

antidote

to life’s

exhausting

demands

and

constant

need to be

achieving

something.

generated by AI on the likes of Instagram.

Cushions and throws, a little stove and a

tiny desk were the order of the day and a

switch flicked in my head. While I don’t

doubt that living off grid and washing

outside is not to be taken lightly, Helena

has clearly created something very special.

With black coffee enriched with butter in

hand, we settled down for a chat, because

I wanted to know how a girl from Sweden

ended up in a wood in Sussex and why it

is that trees are so good for our health!

Shinrin-Yoku

To describe Helena as a forest bathing

guide is an oversimplification of her

qualifications and experience which

include, amongst many other things,

training in the Buddhist Path of Sutra and

Tantra and in making forest medicines,

essences, tinctures and remedies.

23

Forest bathing (Shinrin-Yoku) originated

in Japan in the 1980s and is the practice

of being (sitting, standing or lying) calmly

among trees and being mindful and

present of your natural surroundings. It

involves all five senses and can be part of

a guided meditative experience, practised

alone or a mixture of both.

Research indicates that the benefits

of forest bathing include improved

mental and emotional health such as

reduced anxiety, a decrease in stress,

improved immune system health and

a sense of inner peace. Even those with

robust health, report feeling calmer and

reinvigorated with a renewed sense of

connection to nature.

But before we go further, let’s tackle

the elephant in the room, because if

you haven’t tried it, don’t dismiss forest

bathing as airy-fairy nonsense. It’s one of

the most profound wellbeing experiences

and definitely something you should

experience at least once. But first, a little

about Helena.

From the forests of Sweden to the

olive groves of Spain

If ever someone is following their destiny

it must be Helena. Helena means bearer

of light and Skoog means forest. Helena

grew up in a forest in Sweden and in

her 20s moved to Spain where a difficult

relationship found her spending time

alone in the olive groves. She’s the first

to admit that a combination of trees and

yoga probably saved her life back then.

And an important connection with trees

had taken seed.

Roll forward to 2014, and Helena was

living in the UK, when a profound

personal experience drove Helena to

borrow her brother’s caravan and head

into the forest.

“I knew that this experience I’d had, had to

somehow change my life. At that stage, I just

wanted to live in the woods without people,

but it was scary at first being out here on my

own. A big part of my journey was about

being scared and doing it anyway, and that

helped me to become me.”

A chance meeting with the man that

was to become her partner meant that

the caravan became a log cabin and 10

years on, Helena is still here, although

very sadly, her partner died a couple of

years ago.

At this point in our conversation, we stop

to watch a mouse on the porch and listen

to a gaggle of geese flying overhead. Such

is the traffic in this corner of Sussex.

Learning the language of trees

We turned our attention back to the trees

and Helena explains that she was enjoying

the benefits of forest bathing long before

she knew what it was as a concept.

“My partner was an artist. So, while he

worked, often for long hours, I would take

myself off into the woods. To sit. Sometimes

to lie down. And I remember saying to him,

wow, everyone should try this. And it was

after this, that I discovered Shinrin-Yoku.”

Having previously had a taste of what she

means, I am keen to know more about

the language of trees.

“I can’t tell you how to understand a tree

or the language of trees. It’s a very personal

and intimate experience. Trees are of course

a living entity and most of us would accept

they have presence. At its most basic point,

most of us like trees whether that’s visually,

or by way of a tactile quality. But being

in the presence of trees gives you a sense of

confidence and of calm. You can learn to

be yourself, without judgement, without

response. It’s the ultimate safe place. Forest

bathing is also a great antidote to life’s

exhausting demands and constant need to be

achieving something.

When it comes to forest bathing, everyone

will have a different approach. You will feel

the benefits of forest bathing straightaway

but, like all things, it also takes practice

and time. Start by just sitting or lying on

a blanket. If you find that too awkward,

take a flask and notebook. Find a favourite

tree and visit it often, at different times of

the day and during different seasons. Write

down your experiences if you want to or just

sit quietly. Start with short periods of time

and build on that, take a friend with you if

that helps.

Sometimes, the idea of doing nothing

or going into a wood or forest alone can

be daunting. Remembering how to do

nothing isn’t easy. There is that constant

sense of guilt that we should be achieving

something all the time. I think it’s one of

the reasons the workshops work so well

– because they give you permission to do

what on the face of it might look like doing

nothing. And for those worried about the

idea of trying to quieten their minds, the

guided meditation provides points of focus

and appreciation.”

I am conscious by now that it’s nearly

time to leave, and yet the wood we’re in

feels so calm and safe, I’m reluctant to

start back up that lane.

Forest bathing sessions

Helena runs a variety of forest bathing

sessions which are a sensual and

immersive experience. Her four-hour

sessions include guided meditation as well

as biscuits and foraged tea around the fire.

She mentions that some of her regular

clients come once a quarter and suddenly

a seasonal reconnection with nature feels

utterly compelling.

As I leave, my head is filled with ideas of

a snug cabin in the forest of my own as

well as (and perhaps more realistically)

a renewed respect for nature and trees. I

know my favourite tree back at home, and

I am looking forward to spending a little

more time with it.

To find out more to book visit:

forestbathingsussex.co.uk


Wellbeing in Sussex

We have a number of top-notch spas in Sussex

including at South Lodge, Ockenden Manor and

Alexander House.

Try one of these seven Sussex wellness experiences and embrace the new you

hundreds of places offering meditation, you might

want to try a Buddhist monastery.

Forest bathing

Sound bathing

Sound bathing is a type of meditative and relaxation

practice that involves lying down in a comfortable

and relaxing space and listening to a mix of

gongs, singing bowls and gentle percussion. It is a

therapeutic sonic experience and the benefits include

improved immune system health, reduced stress and

lower blood pressure, improved mood and a sense of

spiritual wellbeing.

The instruments produce extraordinary frequencies

that resonate throughout the body. There are an

increasing number of places you experience sound

bathing in Sussex including with Jez Smith of:

Ancient Sacred Sounds.

Open water swimming

Open water swimming can take many forms. It

might be swimming in a lake, a river or the sea.

You may just want to swim during the summer

months or for some, you may also want to swim in

the winter. If you have never open swum before, it

is really important to do so in a properly organised

environment rather than just jump in your local

lake. You’ll find organised swims at Tilgate Park,

Divers Cove (Surrey) or as part of a swimming club.

If you are wondering why you might want to take to

our local waters, well, it’s because the health benefits

can include improved mood, better sleep, a boosted

immune system, improved cardiovascular fitness,

increased muscle strength, weight loss and improved

skin health.

Time at the spa

South Lodge

Let’s not underestimate time spent at a Sussex

spa. They will generally offer a range of different

treatments and experiences, all designed to

improve both mental and physical health. You

might try yoga, massage and hydrotherapy, facials,

steam rooms and saunas, outdoor pools or mud

treatments. Alternatively, you might just spend a

lovely long day, lying by the pool with an orange

juice in hand.

The benefits of a spa day are many and include

detoxification, improved skin, improved mood and

relaxation, better sleep and enhanced wellbeing.

Moon bathing

Moon bathing does as the name suggests and is the

practice of spending time in the moon light during

specific lunar phases. You can do it as part of a guided

practice or on your own, and the benefits are said

to include reduced stress and improved relaxation,

reconnection with nature, better self-awareness and

an improved sense of wellbeing. There are a number

of moon bathing events that take place in Sussex

including the Ruby Moon events in Brighton.

Sussex retreats and meditation

A retreat is a lovely way to step back from the

craziness of life and do a deep dive into something

you enjoy. Across Sussex, there are a host of different

retreats offering a variety of experiences. You might

want to head off for a writing retreat, a yoga retreat

or a cooking retreat. Sussex even has a public

speaking retreat!

By stepping away from life for anything from a few

hours to a few days, you gain an opportunity to relax

and unwind, refocus and contemplate and maybe

even learn a new skill.

If you can’t afford time off to attend a retreat, well

then meditation may be the answer. Meditation is

said to have dozens of benefits including reduced

stress and anxiety, improved sleep, memory and

ability to focus, lowered blood pressure and

improved heart rate, increased creativity and

patience and improved immune system. With

Forest bathing is the Japanese practice of spending

time in a forest to relax and connect with nature.

Once again, you can practice on your own or as part

of a group and you forest bathe by lying, sitting or

standing in amongst trees in quiet reflection. The

benefits include improved mood, reduced stress,

better sleep, increased ability to focus and improved

physical and mental health. If you’d like to know

more, visit page 23 and an interview with Sussex

Forest Bathing guide, Helena Skoog.

Walking

Let us not forget one of the best experiences for

improved health and wellbeing, that of walking.

The benefits are many from improved physical

health and weight loss, to better sleep, improved

mental health and cognitive functioning, improved

circulation, less stress and improved creativity.

There are dozens of organised walking groups across

Sussex, from guided country walks and Nordic

walking to urban walks and trails. Of course,

you don’t have to be part of a group and can take

yourself off at any time for an amble, as part of a

long or short Sussex walk.


Feng Shui

and Wellness

Harmonising spaces for a balanced life

Feng Shui and physical wellness

Believe it or not, your surroundings can

deeply impact how you feel physically.

Cluttered, poorly lit spaces zap your

energy and leave you feeling drained,

while a thoughtfully designed space

can be your personal oasis of relaxation

and recharging. So, where to start? Let’s

dive into some Feng Shui basics for

feeling good in your space:

1. Clear the clutter

You’ve heard it before but let me

say it again: clutter is the enemy of

good vibes! It blocks the flow of Chi

(that’s energy, by the way), leaving

you feeling stuck and blah. Do a

declutter session, it doesn’t have

to be all at once but keep only the

things that genuinely bring you joy

or serve a purpose. You’ll be amazed

at how freeing it feels.

Feng Shui is more than just tips

Let’s be honest: in today’s

whirlwind of chaos and stress,

finding moments of peace

can feel like a luxury. That’s

why creating a sanctuary,

a space that feels balanced, calming

and restorative has never been more

important.

Enter Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese

practice of aligning our spaces to

harmonise with our energy. It’s not

just about where you place your

furniture; it’s about designing

your environment to support

your physical health, emotional

wellbeing, and that all-important

sense of vitality.

Here’s the good news: you don’t need

a total home makeover to experience

the magic of Feng Shui. Sometimes,

it’s the small tweaks that make all the

difference.

2. Maximize natural light

Light is life, plain and simple.

Clean those windows, swap heavy

curtains for something breezier

and use mirrors to bounce sunlight

into those dark corners. When

your space feels brighter, you feel

brighter too.

3. Add some greenery

Plants are little powerhouses of

good energy. Not only do they look

gorgeous, but they also symbolize

growth and vitality while purifying

your air. Try low-maintenance

options like snake plants, peace lilies

or bamboo if you’re not exactly a

green thumb.

4. Let the air flow

Stale air equals stale energy. Open

your windows whenever you can,

invest in an air purifier and don’t

underestimate the power of a

lovely essential oil like eucalyptus

or lavender. It’s all about keeping

things fresh and vibrant.

The beauty of Feng Shui is that it’s not

just about moving furniture around, it’s a

whole mindset. It’s about becoming more

mindful of how your space feels and flows,

creating a deeper connection between

yourself and your surroundings. When

your home feels right, it supports the best

version of you.

Here’s the kicker: you don’t need to get

it “perfect.” (Spoiler alert: there’s no such

thing!). The goal is to align your space

with your intentions and let it reflect your

aspirations, whatever they may be. Start

small, stay intentional, and trust the process.

In a world that often feels unpredictable

and overwhelming, Feng Shui is a

reminder that you have the power to

shape your surroundings and in turn,

your life. So, take it one room, one corner,

one small change at a time. With each

step, you’re creating a more harmonious,

balanced and joyful space for yourself and

those you love.

Here’s to cultivating wellness, balance and

a little extra joy in your life starting right

where you are.

Janine Lowe

is a classically

trained Feng

Shui consultant

in the arts of

Bazi, Flying Stars,

Auspicious dates,

Qi Men Dun Jia

and I Ching.

You can find

out more at

Janine Lowe


HEALTH

HEALTH

Enhance Your

Wellbeing

With Solution-Focused Hypnotherapy

Wellbeing refers to

a state of overall

health, happiness,

and prosperity.

It encompasses

physical, mental, emotional and

social aspects of a person’s life.

Wellbeing is often used to describe

a sense of contentment, fulfilment

and satisfaction with one’s life and

circumstances. It can also refer to the

presence of positive emotions, a sense

of purpose and meaning and strong

social connections. Overall, wellbeing is

a holistic concept that reflects a person’s

overall quality of life and their ability to

thrive and flourish.

In today’s fast-paced and stressful

world, maintaining a sense of

wellbeing can be a challenge for

many individuals. The demands of

work, relationships and daily life

can take a toll on our mental and

physical health, leading to feelings of

anxiety, depression and burnout. But

hypnotherapy can be a powerful tool

to support and enhance a person’s

overall wellbeing.

At the core of human happiness and

wellbeing lies the fulfilment of essential

needs. These needs span physical,

emotional, social and psychological

dimensions. Meeting these needs not

only helps individuals feel secure and

valued but also fosters a deeper sense of

purpose and satisfaction in life.

The importance of

understanding needs

Every person has unique requirements

that influence their wellbeing. Physical

needs like proper nutrition, exercise and

sleep are foundational for maintaining

health and energy. When these are

unmet, other areas of life are inevitably

impacted. Similarly, emotional needs—

such as feeling loved, appreciated and

understood—are vital for cultivating selfesteem

and resilience.

Psychological needs, including a sense of

autonomy, competence and connection,

play a crucial role in fostering personal

growth and happiness. Social needs, such

as meaningful relationships and a sense

of belonging, anchor individuals within

their communities and support their

mental health.

Practical ways to meet needs

1. Listen actively: One of the simplest

yet most powerful ways to enhance

wellbeing is to actively listen. By

giving someone your undivided

attention, you validate their

experiences and emotions.

2. Create supportive environments:

Providing a safe and nurturing

space where individuals can express

themselves freely encourages personal

growth and emotional security.

3. Encourage self-care: Supporting

others in prioritising self-care activities

like regular exercise, healthy eating

and mindfulness can significantly

enhance their overall wellbeing.

4. Foster connection: Helping

people build and maintain strong

social networks ensures they have

support systems in place during

challenging times.

5. Promote a sense of purpose:

Encouraging individuals to

engage in meaningful activities,

set achievable goals and celebrate

successes can ignite a sense of

accomplishment and fulfilment.

The Ripple Effect

When a person’s needs are met, the

positive effects extend beyond their

individual wellbeing. They are more

likely to build healthier relationships,


HEALTH

contribute positively to their

communities and inspire others to

prioritise their own wellbeing. Meeting

needs is not just an act of kindness—it’s

an investment in a collective sense of

thriving and harmony.

Boosting mental health and

emotional wellbeing

Hypnotherapy is also a valuable tool for

improving mental health and emotional

wellbeing. By addressing limiting beliefs

and unresolved emotional issues, it helps

build confidence, boost self-esteem and

adopt healthier coping mechanisms.

The power of hypnosis lies in its ability

to create new neural pathways in the

brain. Positive suggestions and imagery

encourage people to rewire thought

patterns, leading to healthier behaviours

and attitudes. Over time, these changes

contribute to greater emotional stability

and a more optimistic outlook on life.

When a person’s needs are

met, the positive effects

extend beyond their

individual wellbeing.

Achieving goals and unlocking

potential

Solution-focused hypnotherapy

doesn’t just help with managing

stress or improving mental health—it

also supports you in achieving their

aspirations and meeting your needs.

Whether it’s enhancing personal

relationships, overcoming fears or

reaching professional milestones,

hypnotherapy can be instrumental in

unlocking untapped potential.

By accessing the subconscious mind, you

can harness creativity, intuition and inner

wisdom. This process enables you to

break free from self-imposed limitations

and pursue your goals with renewed

determination and clarity. The result is

a greater sense of accomplishment and

fulfilment in various aspects of life.

The path to greater wellbeing

Solution-focused hypnotherapy

doesn’t just help with managing

stress or improving mental health—it

also supports you in achieving your

aspirations and meeting your needs.

Whether it’s enhancing personal

relationships, overcoming fears or

reaching professional milestones,

hypnotherapy can be instrumental in

unlocking untapped potential.

As a solution-focused hypnotherapist,

my mission is to guide you on a journey

to greater wellbeing. I help individuals

tap into their strengths, overcome

obstacles, meet their needs and create the

life they desire. Addressing the diverse

needs of individuals is a cornerstone

of enhancing wellbeing. By creating

environments and practices that support

these needs, we can help others flourish

and, in turn, contribute to a happier,

healthier society.

What Is Solution-Focused

Hypnotherapy?

Solution-focused hypnotherapy is a

modern therapeutic approach that

prioritises solutions over problems. It

empowers individuals to leverage their

strengths, identify resources and pursue

their goals with clarity and confidence.

By incorporating hypnosis, this method

helps people access their subconscious

mind, unlocking inner resources to

create meaningful and lasting change.

Unlike traditional approaches that

delve into past traumas, solutionfocused

hypnotherapy concentrates on

the present and future. It provides a

forward-looking framework that helps

build resilience, develop positive habits,

and overcome barriers to wellbeing.

Holly Stone is

an experienced

Solution

Focused Clinical

Hypnotherapist,

Supervisor and

Senior Lecturer

for CPHT Surrey.

Holly Stone

Hypnotherapy

Sompting South Downs

Circular Walk

Add a spring to your step and enjoy blossom, views and

ancient landscapes with these two inspirational walks

If you fancy a walk, the South Downs

never disappoint, and this relatively easy

4 km Sompting South Downs circular

walk has “blow your socks off” views. In

spring, the road from Steyning is also

awash with blossom.

Sussex Walks

To get to the start (What3Words:dark.

curl.fruit), either head into Steyning and

take Newham Lane (which joins Bostal

Road) or just take Bostal Road. They are

both narrow and steep but bring you out

on the top of the South Downs. You will

...you’ll see

the South

Downs

Way and

some pigs

off to the

east and

a path

straight

ahead to

the big hill.

pass the distinctive Steyning Bowl to your

left and then a short distance later you’ll

see some parking and a large hill ahead

(there is more parking a little further

ahead if needed). You can also approach

the start point from the A27 to the south

by taking the Titch Hill turn at Sompting

and passing the church and Sompting

Abbotts school.

If you aren’t travelling by car, you can

access this walk from Lancing (accessible by

bus). Start at What3Words:sleep.blindfold.

calm and do the walk in reverse order

walking from Lancing Nature Reserve and

Lancing Ring up to Steep Down.


Views to Worthing and Seaford

As you get out of the car, you’ll see the

South Downs Way and some pigs off to

the east and a path straight ahead to the

big hill. The hill is Steep Down and there

is a narrow path that leads to the base.

When you reach the gate, go through it

and straight up. It’s steep but relatively

short and then it’s through another gate

to the triangulation point at the top. It’s

worth stopping here for a while because

you can see so much. Lancing Chapel

is clearly visible as is Lancing Ring (the

clump of trees straight ahead), Shoreham

and Worthing, and is that Seaford Head

in the far distance? You can also make

out the major landmarks of Brighton.

To your right are two areas of Cross

Dyke which, although they don’t look

like much, are actually scheduled

monuments. They are linear earthworks

made up of ditches that run parallel

down a steep slope. They date back to

the Middle Bronze Age (or earlier) and

are thought to be either boundary marks,

droveways or defensive areas.

An alternative route to

Coombes

Keep going straight ahead and when

you meet a crossroads and the bottom

of the hill, turn left and then left again

to start the walk back. Alternatively, you

can keep going on to Lancing Ring and

then round to the left to Coombes before

heading back. Coombes church dates to

the 11th century and has some of the

most important Medieval wall paintings

in England, painted in about 1100. This

longer route is just over 9 km.

The short route back

If you take the short route back, you’ll

follow a narrow path with views across

the valley. Look out for the circles below

that look like WWII bomb craters caused

by pilots offloading so they could land.

Then follow the path back to the car.

Exploring Chailey Common

If you don’t live in or near Chailey, it’s

easy to whizz past Chailey Common

and never stop. After all, it straddles the

A272, which most of us travel if we’re

busy bustling from one place to another.

But it’s worth a diversion and this easy

2-3 km walk is great in bluebell season

for a walk with family.

The common is one of the largest

in the south of England at over 400

acres and is divided into a number of

different areas or enclosures. It’s also a

Local Nature Reserve as well as a Site

of Special Scientific Interest. In spring,

you immediately notice the bluebells

and gorse, but it is also home to heather,

orchids, and lots of other wildlife.

Red House Common

Red House Common is the part of the

common north of the A272 and you’ll

find parking off Warrs Hill Lane (off the

A275 at What3Words: boxing.corals.

shackles). Buses from Haywards Heath

and Uckfield stop at North Chailey and

from there, it’s a short walk from the bus

stop to a lane that will take you on to the

common (What3Words: pocket.motels.

gathering) and to the windmill.

If you want to take a map, it’s Ordnance

Survey Explorer 135 but you don’t

really need it. If you walk the entire

circumference of Red House Common,

it’s less than 4 km and although there are

lots of little paths, it’s quite hard to get

lost. From the car park, head southwest

towards the windmill.

The windmill

There are a couple of different ways to

get to the windmill, but you’ll soon see

the mill sails. There has been a windmill

on this site since 1590 although this one

was built in West Hoathly in 1830. She

is sometimes known as Beard’s Mill or

Heritage Mill. In 1844 she was moved

from West Hoathly to Newhaven to act

as a “navigation mark” for ships, and

then, 20 years later, she was moved again

to Chailey by bull cart. She was working

up until 1911.

Exploring the common

If you want to carry on south west past

the windmill, you’ll enjoy pleasant

heathland but you’ll also hear the roar of

the traffic. As you reach the most south

western corner of this part of Chailey

Common (as you near the road), there’s a

footpath that takes you back north east,

around the edge of the common. It gets

boggy in places, but you slowly leave the

sound of the traffic behind.

You don’t need to follow a set route at

this point because this is a meander

of a walk, but as you progress, you’ll

notice footpaths to your right leading

up a reasonably steep incline. It’s worth

the climb up here because the views are

spectacular. There are various benches at

the top here and when you’re ready, just

potter your way back to the car.


The Wonders of

the Sussex Weald

Welcome to Slinfold Golf and Country Club

The secret to ensuring fitness and exercise result in long term wellbeing

Health and wellbeing can take many

forms from working out in the gym

to playing 18 holes of golf, or for

some, just finding a quiet space

where you can relax and unwind.

At Slinfold Golf and Country Club we believe

that there is a simple formula that turns a fitness

programme into enhanced and long term wellbeing

and helps ensure your fitness regime becomes an

enjoyable part of your lifestyle rather than just a

‘must do’ routine.

Our simple formula includes two things. Firstly,

you need great facilities for the fitness activity of

your choice – whether that’s a gym, swimming,

golf or fitness classes. Importantly, for success, these

facilities should be supported by professional and

expert help as and when you need it in the form of a

coach or instructor.

The second part of the formula is equally important

and is about having somewhere calming and quiet

where you can relax and just breathe once you’ve

finished your workout. That might be something

as simple as having a coffee or a drink in beautiful

surroundings or it might mean having a soothing

treatment in the spa. Being able to relax and unwind

after your workout is essential for both your mental and

physical health and means you’re more likely to stick to

your fitness regime. Exercise becomes something to look

forward to and your mind and body get a chance to

switch off from the stresses of life.

Our beautiful golf course and grounds set the

scene from the moment you arrive. Fresh, clean

air and open countryside provide that winning

combination of invigoration and relaxation. Take a

deep breath and then come and explore our facilities

which include:

• An 18-hole Sussex golf course, driving range and

golf coaching.

• A fully equipped gym with the very latest

TechnoGym cardiovascular and weights

equipment supported by over 95 different weekly

exercise classes and a team of personal trainers.

• A swimming pool with Aqua Aerobics and lane

swimming in addition to a poolside steam room

and spa pool, with great views over the grounds.

When you’ve finished your workout, you can head

to our spa for a range of treatments, head out to our

outdoor Tranquillity Sun Deck, enjoy views from the

balcony in our bar or just relax in one of our comfy

seating areas. It’s a winning wellbeing formula so

why not come and have a look for yourself.

For more information about our facilities visit:

www.slinfoldclub.co.uk

Call us on: 01403 791154

Or visit us at:

Stane Street, Slinfold, Horsham,

West Sussex, RH13 0RE

If you could divide Sussex into geological

parts, it would be the Sussex coast, the

South Downs and the Weald. The Weald

stretches across East and West Sussex

(although it also covers parts of Kent, Surrey

and Hampshire) and is the counterbalance to the

lofty, chalky Downs.

Battle Abbey

The Weald is considered to be a Medieval

landscape and has been recognised as an area since

Saxon times. It is as diverse as it is large but worth

every minute spent exploring as it will yield up

Medieval towns, wooded paths and droveways,

stunning views, rivers and ridges and all sorts of

wonderful wonders.


37

10 Wonders of the Sussex Weald

1. Battle Abbey

Battle Abbey was once a Benedictine abbey built

on the site of the Battle of Hastings. It is Grade

I listed.

William the Conqueror started to build the abbey

as penance for killing so many people during

the invasion. It was completed after his death in

1094. The abbey is owned by English Heritage

and open to the public.

2. Ashdown Forest

Ashdown Forest is an ancient area of

open heathland and woodland in the High

Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It

has views of the North and South Downs and

was a Medieval hunting forest created soon

after the Norman conquest. It is also famous

for being home to and inspiration for Winnie

the Pooh and you can visit Pooh Sticks Bridge.

Other attractions include a windmill at Nutley, a

number of waterfalls, an abandoned garden and

Ashdown Park. The forest is popular with horse

riders and walkers.

3. Herstmonceux Castle

Herstmonceux Castle is a brick-built castle,

dating from 1441. It is one of the oldest

significant brick buildings still standing and

the parks and gardens are Grade II* listed on

the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens.

There is also a Grade II listed walled garden to

the north of the castle and the Grade II* listed

telescopes and workshops of the Herstmonceux

Science Centre. The grounds are open to the

public and the owners host a limited number of

tours of the castle.

4. Eridge Rocks

Tucked up near the Kent border near Tunbridge

Wells, Eridge Rocks are a sandstone outcrop

of giant 10 metre high boulders designated a

Site of Special Scientific Interest. They are 135

million years old and the ridge of rocks extends

800 metres. Contained within a nature reserve,

and free to visit, the rocks are home to rare

lichens, mosses, and liverworts and you can walk

along the base of the rocks, peep into the crack

and crevasses and walk along the top. But do

take care.

5. Follies of the Weald

The Weald is home to some unusual follies.

Not far from Crowborough and Eridge, the

Saxonbury Tower was built in 1828 by Henry

Nevill, 2nd Earl of Abergavenny. It was built in

the centre of a late Bronze Age/early Iron Age

hill fort, situated on top of Saxonbury Hill and

might have been a lookout tower. Today it is

used by a telephone company but it’s still very

enigmatic.

The Gibraltar Tower in Heathfield Park is

a Grade II listed monument that was once

sketched by Turner. It dates from 1792 and was

built by Francis Newbery as a memorial to the

former owner of the estate, George Augustus

Eliot, who had been Governor at Gibraltar

during the lengthy ‘Great Siege’ by the Spanish

and French of 1779-1783.

Finally, look out for the series of follies built by

Jack Fuller, aka Mad Jack. A philanthropist,

an MP and High Sheriff, he also financed the

building of the Belle Tout lighthouse at Beachy

Head and was a supporter of Eastbourne

Lifeboats. But he is perhaps best known for the

follies he built across East Sussex. These are: the

Sugar Loaf (near Dallington), the Pyramid and

the Tower (Brightling), and the Observatory and

the Needle (both on private land near Brightling).

6. Ouse Valley Viaduct

The Ouse Valley Viaduct (aka the Balcombe

Viaduct) is on the main London to Brighton

train line over the river Ouse. It is often called

the most elegant viaduct in Britain and it must

also be one of the most photographed.

Work started on it in 1839 and it is 29 m high

and has 37 semi-circular arches spanning a

total length of 450 m. It officially opened on

the 12 July 1841. It is Grade II* and you can

walk from Ardingly Reservoir right to the foot

of the viaduct.


the 1750s and 60s by the landscape architect

Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown and is still home to

ancient trees and fallow deer.

7. Worth Church

The Parish Church of St Nicholas at Worth has

been a place of Christian worship for over 1000

years. Excluding Ripon Cathedral and Hexham

Abbey, St Nicholas’ Worth is the 11th oldest

church in the country, and one of, if not the

oldest church in Sussex.

It dates from about A.D.950 and is often

described as the most perfect specimen of a

Saxon cruciform church in England. 99% of

the walls of the nave, the three great arches and

the two transepts are original Saxon work. The

stonework of the apse is also Saxon and the

large chancel is unique for an English church of

this age.

10. Blackdown

Blackdown, or Black Down, is the highest point

in both the historic county of Sussex and the

South Downs National Park. It is also one of the

highest points in the south east of England and

has a summit elevation of 279.7 metres. It was

once home to Lord Tennyson and Tennyson’s

Lane is named after him. Blackdown is home

to the famous Belted Galloway cows that you

may see grazing there and ownership of the

Blackdown Estate can be traced back to the

14th century to William Yaldwyn of Blackdown.

Oliver Cromwell is said to have stayed at

Blackdown during the Civil War and in 1967,

it was the scene of a domestic plane crash. It is a

fabulous place to walk.

8. East Grinstead High Street and the

Meridian Line

East Grinstead High Street contains one of

the longest continuous runs of 14th-century

timber-framed buildings in England. The High

Street was designed as a market place and there

are 19 timber framed houses from the 14th and

15th centuries, with another 13 from the Tudor

and Stewart periods including Sackville College

built in 1609 and a 16th / 17th century church.

The Greenwich Meridian runs through the

grounds of the historic 1769 East Court mansion.

9. Petworth House and Park

Long before the current house was built, there

was a house here, which was fortified in 1308-

9. Inspired by the rebuilding of the French

palace of Versailles from 1661, it was in 1682

that heiress Elizabeth Percy married Charles

Seymour the 6th Duke of Somerset and set

about creating the current building. Petworth

House is therefore 17th century and home to

one of the finest art collections in the care of the

National Trust with work by Van Dyck, Turner,

Reynolds and Gainsborough.

Outside, the Pleasure Garden features

architectural features like the Rotunda while

the 700-acre Deer Park was transformed in


41


Eggstraordinary

Easter

A look at Easter traditions, both old and new

Eggs, bunnies and hares

The name Easter derives from Eastre,

a Pagan goddess of fertility and spring.

Eastre is also associated with both hares

and eggs … cue Easter bunnies and

Easter eggs. Eastre was celebrated by

the pagans as part of the spring equinox

festivities. An equinox is, of course, one

of the two occasions each year when there

is almost an equal amount of daylight

and darkness.

The gifting of eggs can actually be traced

back to before these Pagan celebrations

in Anglo Saxon times to as long ago as

the Egyptian period when eggs were

decorated as a celebration of rebirth and

new beginnings. By the Medieval period,

eating eggs (along with meat, fats and

milk) was banned during Lent which

might explain why we think of eggs as a

treat at Easter (once the ban was lifted).

Cooks would sometimes make imitations

of the banned foods, and The British

Library has a copy of a 15 th century

recipe for an imitation egg made from

almond paste.

In 1290, 450 eggs were decorated in

gold leaf or boiled and dyed in the King

Edward I household and then presented

to the royal household at Easter. The cost

was 18 pence. The UK’s first chocolate

Easter eggs were made in 1873 by the

chocolate makers, J.S. Fry & Sons.

One a

penny,

two a

penny…

hot cross buns

Hot cross buns also have a long

history. Ancient Egyptians used

small round breads decorated with a

cross to celebrate the gods. Thereafter,

the Greeks, the Romans and the Pagans

all offered similar treats and in the Old

Testament, there is reference to baking

sweet buns to appease the gods. There

are multiple explanations for the cross

used by different civilizations, including

that each of the four areas represented

one of the seasons, that it symbolized

the horns of a sacrificial ox or that it just

warded off evil spirits.

By 1361, a Christian monk at St Albans

Abbey had created the “Alban Bun”

which he distributed to the poor on

Good Friday and by the 19th century,

hot cross buns were so associated with

Good Friday that Queen Elizabeth I

introduced controls so that they could

only be baked for burials, Christmas or

on the Friday before Easter.

In Sussex, hot cross buns were baked

on Good Friday ready for Easter

Saturday. One bun would be saved until

the following Easter for good luck or

hung in the home where it would protect

the house from fire until the following

year. Tradition had it that hot cross buns

baked on Good Friday would never go

mouldy and Sussex fishermen would take

a hot cross bun out to sea with them as a

protection against drowning.

Making it a Sussex Easter:

Sussex is awash with blossom and

bluebells at this time of year as

well as lots of lovely Easter activities:

G For Sussex

chocolate head

to Old Town

Hastings and Only

Coco or to MooCoco

in Storrington, in West

Sussex.

H For Easter egg decorating and

afternoon tea, try Amberley Castle

from 18th to 21st April.

Z For an Easter Trail on 20th April

make your way to the grounds of the

Manor Barn, Bexhill. There you’ll

hunt down clues to a fabulous Easter

sweet treat.

q There is an Easter Makers Fair in

Shoreham on the 19th April with 70

exhibitors.

G If you want to go Easter egg hunting,

try Bodiam Castle from the 5th to

21st April for a family-friendly trail

inspired by the cheeky castle ducks.

H For an Easter bunny boat trip, visit

Chichester Canal where there will be

three Easter bunny boat trips per day

from 1st to 10th April.

Z To bake your own hot cross buns,

you need to check in with Stoneham

Bakehouse in Hove who are hosting

baking workshops on the 25th March

and the 1st and 8th of April.

q For daffodils, try Michelham Priory

near Hailsham (although these may

be in full bloom before Easter and are

subject to weather conditions).

G For a spring celebration of lambs,

piglets, chicks, calves, head to

Tablehurst Farm in Forest Row on the

3rd and 10th May.

H For an alternative to the Easter

festivities, try the marvellous Pagan

style celebration of Jack in the

Green in Hastings, held on the May

Bank Holiday weekend.

43

St Botoloph’s

Bosham church

Worth Church

Kingley Vale

Age is But a Number

Visit the oldest pub, the oldest church, the oldest museum

and look out for the oldest man in Sussex

Marlipins Museum, Shoreham

This museum building in Shoreham, West

Sussex, is thought to be the oldest secular

building in Britain. It is Grade II listed,

has a flint and limestone chequerboard

façade and dates to the 12th century. It

may have once been a toll or custom house

for the port and markets. The museum

has a number of interesting local artefacts

including items from shipwrecks and

medical instruments.

The George & Dragon, Houghton

The George and Dragon dates back to the

13th century and is thought to be one

of the oldest three pubs in Sussex. King

Charles II is also thought to have stopped

here in1651 when fleeing after his defeat at

the Battle of Worcester. If you’re walking

the South Downs Way, it’s a perfect place

to stop for a bite.

The Mermaid Inn, Rye

If you want an old pub in East Sussex, a

good bet is the Grade II listed The Mermaid

Main image:

George and Dragon

Marlipins Museum

The Mermaid

Inn. The cellars date to 1156 and an inn

may have been operating here since then.

But perhaps the inn is most famous for its

ghosts and its smugglers who used it as a

base in the 1730s and 1740s.

The oldest church

Sussex has a lot of very old churches

so there are a few contenders for this

particular crown.

St Botolph’s Church, Botolphs, near

Bramber

This Grade I listed Saxon church in West

Sussex was built around 950 and is listed

as one of the 500 holiest sites in Britain.

There are fragments of Medieval wall

paintings, including the earliest known

representation of St George in England

which probably means it’s one of the

oldest paintings in Sussex.

Holy Trinity Church, Bosham

Bosham church is Grade I listed and also

dates back to Saxon times. It is known

as the oldest known place of worship in

Sussex because an Irish monk named Dicul

had a very small monastery in Bosham in

670. In 681, Bishop Wilfred built Selsey

Abbey not far away (which was later

replaced by Chichester Cathedral).

Worth Church, near Crawley

St Nicholas Church at Worth is one of

the oldest churches in the country and

has been a place of Christian worship for

well over 1000 years. Parts of it have been

dated to between 950 and 1050.

Oldest forest

Kingley Vale in West Sussex is home to

some of the oldest living things in Britain,

including a grove of ancient yew trees that

are estimated to be over 2,000 years old.

The oldest man in Sussex

Henry William Allingham was born in

1896 and died on 18 July 2009 at his

care home, Blind Veterans UK centre

in Ovingdean near Brighton, aged 113

years and 42 days. A tree was planted

and a commemorative plaque unveiled at

the Eastbourne Redoubt on 22 May 2010

to mark Allingham›s residence in the town.

He is believed to be the oldest man

from the UK however, we cannot rule

out Isaac Ingall. A small gravestone in

Battle reads ‘Isaac Ingall Died 2nd April

1778 aged 120’. Although his age cannot

be definitively proved, he was born in

Yorkshire in the 1670s and probably

moved to work at Battle Abbey in Sussex

in about 1720. He worked there for about

90 years and his old walking stick is now

on display at Hastings Museum.

We also shouldn’t rule out Boxgrove Man.

He (or rather a bit of his shin and two

teeth) were discovered at Boxgrove just

outside Chichester in 1982. He dates to

480000 BC and is possibly the oldest

human in Britain.


Colour at the

Royal Pavilion

Lucy Pitts in conversation with Dr Alexandra Loske, the inspiration

and driving force behind the new, emotive and immersive

Colour exhibition at the Royal Pavilion

© Flora Loske-Page

On the 21st March, on

International Colour Day,

a new immersive exhibition

opens at the magnificently

opulent Royal Pavilion

in Brighton. The Colour exhibition will

showcase vivid room installations, art

interventions and sensory experiences

and explore how colour influenced the

Pavilion’s stunning aesthetic in the early

1800s. But the exhibition is also designed

to be fun and highly emotive.

The inspiration behind this colour

extravaganza is Dr Alexandra Loske, a British-

German art historian, writer and museum

curator who is fast becoming a leading

authority on the history of colour, with

numerous publications, presentations

and exhibitions to her name. Now the

Curator of the Royal Pavilion and other

historic properties, such as Preston

Manor, this part-immersive exhibition

is largely based on Alexandra’s doctoral

research and expertise.

Alexandra spent nearly seven years

meticulously studying colour theory,

19th-century design and the Pavilion’s

architectural history, uncovering

fascinating details, including the

secrets behind 18th and 19th-century

hand-painted wallpapers and Victorian

over-paint.

If you are lucky enough to meet her,

Alexandra’s interest and excitement about

colour is both infectious and tangible and

she speaks of King George IV with the

familiarity and affection of someone who

has (metaphorically speaking) walked by

his side for many a mile. Sussex Exclusive

caught up with her recently in advance of

the exhibition to find out more:

A journey into colour

“I’d been living and working in the UK

since the 1990s and in fact, I even served

champagne to Princess Diana once. In the

early 2000s, I decided to do an MA in

Art History. I had no particular ambition

at the time, it was just something I was

interested in. I really enjoyed it, and

when the opportunity arose to apply for

a Collaborative Doctoral Award (CDA)

grant at the University of Sussex to study

the history of colour at the Royal Pavilion,

I grabbed it. I already had a great interest

in the costume and textiles of the Romantic

period and had the advantage of speaking

German (Germany being very influential in

this period). This type of research is normally

instigated by a museum when they become

aware of a gap in their research, and this

was the case here.

It wasn’t great timing because I was

expecting a baby, and to be honest, those

early years were exhausting. I had to be

highly organised and focused but the

research went brilliantly and subsequently

I have written a number of books and

speak widely about my subject. It changed

the course of my life and has led to many

wonderful things.

Colour at the Pavilion

The team and I had to approach this

exhibition with caution. It has to appeal to

a wide audience, but it also has to respect

the Pavilion interiors. Each room there

focusses on different colours and is already a

work of art in its own right. And every inch

of the Pavilion is already covered in colour

and that really is very representative of both

Brighton and George (King George IV).

However, that also means you have to

manage any installation or intervention with

great care.

Enter King George IV, aka Prinny

and the First Gentleman of Europe

George was extremely interested in the arts and

was a great collector. He also loved the process

of designing interiors and dabbled in colour in

various other royal places. But it was Brighton

where he was really able to explore and

experiment with this extraordinarily opulent

palace. He was very involved and would hire

the best people to implement his ideas. And

you have to remember how experimental

and pioneering he was. For example, the

complexities of painting in red or using silver

to decorate things can’t be underestimated.

And George was the first to try a new shade

of yellow. In fact, he painted a whole suite of

rooms in it, and it is this yellow that these days

we all know as the standard colour of New

York taxis or American school buses and which

was used so successfully by Van Gogh.

From elation to calm

In planning the exhibition, we made the

existing colour themes of each room our

starting point. I want the exhibition to be

fun and to play with the idea that colour is

both emotive and stimulating. Each room

should evoke a different emotion from elated

...every inch

of the Pavilion

is already

covered in

colour and

that really

is very

representative

of both

Brighton and

George (King

George IV).

However, that

also means

you have to

manage any

installation or

intervention

with great

care.


and inspired to calm, and there will be

colourful surprises too. There will be pinks

in the long gallery leading to sky blue and

then turning to yellow.

a range of historic costume and original

watercolours from the period before the Nash

alterations of the Pavilion from 1815.

Spring at

Tottington Manor Hotel

& TERRA Restaurant

With spring bursting into life on the South Downs, Tottington Manor

is the perfect place to enjoy special moments together

One of my favourite installations will be

upstairs where there will be large, coloured

paper flowers. This links to history of colour

and art as flower painting was a big part

of the Romantic era. There will also be a

fabulous exhibition in the Banqueting Room,

where we will substitute the usual feast

with a feast of colour replacing the dishes

with different jars of pigment and replacing

the plates with colour wheels. Pigments are

arresting and appealing in their own right

and it will be a really diverse assortment

with some pigments sourced from a pigment

archive from an artist in Lewes.

In the Saloon, which is crimson, we will be

focussing on silver and gold. George loved a

bit of bling and liked to cover things with

silver. It’s not an easy material to design

with but we will have a silver dragon hat

created by the famous hat maker, Stephen

Jones, and a complete set of George’s medals

in bronze, silver and gold, which haven’t

been displayed as a set before.

In Queen Victoria’s bedroom, we will

explore the chemical colour revolution of the

mid-19th century with different costumes.

This was a time when ladies fashion

exploded in terms of colour, although

some of the dyes used were actually very

harmful and could lead to death. We have

also invited various artists to exhibit in

different rooms and there will be lots of

other exhibits, including some of the rarest

and most beautiful historic books on colour,

An exhibition of intent

I want visitors to the

exhibition to have fun

and learn more about

the use of colour at

the Pavilion. It would

be great if they came

away understanding,

for example, why a

wall was painted in

a particular colour

and with more of an

understanding of the

history and the stories

behind the colours at

the Pavilion. I hope

the exhibition creates

an emotional journey for visitors that they

will remember with a renewed sense of what

a special place the Pavilion is as well as how

sensational it must have been in the 1820s.”

The exhibition will run from

21st March 2025 to the 19th

October 2025. It will feature

workshops, artist collaborations, a series

of ‘Colour Conversations’ hosted by

Alexandra and other events to enhance the

experience, ensuring that visitors engage

with the theme of colour in diverse ways.

Alexandra’s forthcoming book with Yale

University Press is due for publication in

late June.

Kaleidoscope ©

Graham Fudger

Globe ©

Camilla Cannon

Tottington Manor Hotel is a

4-star boutique hotel set in

an historic building in the

heart of the South Downs

National Park. It has won

multiple awards and accolades including

the Good Hotel Awards, The Beautiful

South Awards for excellence and Britain’s

Finest Awards. The Tottington TERRA

Restaurant is also award winning and

prides itself on its use of local produce.

The Tottington team always have a warm

welcome for their guests and believe in

delivering an outstanding service.

Spread a little love this

Valentine’s Day

14 and 15 February

What better way to spend time with the

one you love than with a walk on the

South Downs followed by Valentine’s

Day brunch or Afternoon Tea. Perhaps

you might even want to pop the question

or celebrate special years spent together

with a bottle of Sussex sparkling wine.

Neal Richardson Jazz Trio

22 February

Treat yourself to an extraordinary night

of jazz with this world-renowned artist.


49

If you love the Jazz and Swing of the Rat

Pack era this is the event for you. Enjoy

a cheese board and local wines as you get

into the rhythm of the evening.

Mother’s Day treat

30 March

Treat your mother to a fabulous lunch

in a beautiful setting on Mother’s Day.

With a menu based around local and

seasonal produce and daffodils blooming

in the grounds outside, Mother’s Day at

Tottington is always special.

All together for Easter

20 April

Book our cosy Inglenook Room for

groups of up to 14 people and let us

cook you a fabulous Easter lunch. After

lunch, head up on to the Downs with

the children or plan your own Easter egg

hunts in the grounds.

Sussex

&

Folklore

Food

Help yourself to a serving of heritage and a soupçon of legend

According to an ancient poem by an unknown poet,

there are allegedly Seven Good Things of Sussex when it

comes to Sussex foodlore:

Of a score of good things found outside heaven

The land of Sussex was granted seven

The choicest of those I often feel

Is the oily, glutinous Pulborough eel

Though the Selsea cockle would be the best

The Chichester lobster’s the lordliest dish

The herring of Rye is the tastiest dish

The mullet of Arundel would have my vote

If I could but forget the Amberley trout

The wheatear of Bourne whenever it’s about.

A true taste of Sussex

Sometimes, you don’t need a specific

occasion to treat yourself to something

special. Our beautiful TERRA Restaurant

serves an award-winning menu featuring

locally sourced ingredients combined

with a choice of international and local

Sussex wines.

A mini break to remember

With the South Downs right on your

doorstep and the cosmopolitan city

of Brighton just a short drive away,

Tottington is a great base if you’re

planning an escape to the county. With

their Sussex themed rooms, sumptuous

linens, fourposter beds and great views,

you won’t want to leave.

HOTEL & RESTAURANT

Edburton Road, Henfield, West Sussex BN5 9LJ

Telephone: 01903 815757

For more information or to book:

tottingtonmanor.co.uk

The Selsey cockle

Selsey is now better known for its crabs

than its cockles, and in fact, more

recently for its periwinkles which were

found in a Medieval food basket at

nearby Medmerry. That said, you can

still buy cockles in Sesley from folk like

D&D Fisheries who can trace their

family fishing roots back to the 1600s.

Traditionally, cockles were caught at

Pagham Harbour but when it silted up,

the trade declined.

Selsey’s other big claim to fame is being

the place where the earliest evidence of

fishing can be found. In 680 AD, St

Wilfrid is believed to have taught the

locals to fish with nets and thereby saved

them from starvation. Selsey is also one of

the few places where you can still watch

the fishermen bringing in the catch.


51

The Chichester lobster

The historic city of Chichester has

a regal feel, so it feels fitting that

the majestic lobster is its heritage

offering. There are plenty of places

you can enjoy lobster there today

from the Boat House at Chichester

Marina to the Crab and Lobster at

nearby Sidlesham Quay.

The Arundel mullet

The term ‘Mullet’ has been used for

over 200 years to describe the people

of Arundel because of the abundance

of grey mullet that lived in the river

Arun (which runs through the town).

The expression is still used by some

locals today.

According to local Sussex historian,

Peter Benner, St Thomas a Becket,

who had connections with Sussex

used to visit Tarring, where he

dabbled in the cultivation of figs. On

one journey across Sussex, he found

some fishermen failing to find a catch

below the bridge at Lewes. The Saint

waved his hand and they produced

four large mullets.

Talking of figs, some say that it was

St Richard who cultivated the Tarring

fig trees in the 13th century. There

is still a fig garden in Tarring in a

private garden which is open to the

public on one day a year and which

dates back to at least 1745 but is

believed to have been cultivated from

the Medieval figs.

The Amberley trout

Sussex food writer, Rosemary

Moon, in her book A Feast of West

Sussex gives a recipe of Trout Paté

made with wonderfully Sussex

Egremont Russet apples. She also has

a recipe for Arundel Mullet cooked

with capers and chervil.

© Andreas Trept

The Pulborough eel

The idea of an oily, glutinous eel

may not appeal these days, but it

was once a popular dish and fished

extensively in the muddier reaches

of the Arun. Peter Benner enjoyed

a Pulborough Eel Pudding cooked to

a 19th century recipe in The Swan at

Fittleworth in 1981, and at the same

time, the menu was offering Arundel

Mullet cooked to another traditional

recipe. You may be relieved to learn

that Pulborough is now better known

for its vineyards and bagels!

The Rye herring

A popular catch for Rye fisherman (who

were not as violent as their brothers

from Hastings who earned themselves

the name of chop-backs due to their

tendency for violence), you can still

head down to Rye Fish Market and

Seafood Bar for a herring rollmop.

The Eastbourne wheatear

The last Good Thing of Sussex is a

little hard to swallow as a wheatear is

a small migratory bird that used to be

very common on the South Downs.

Local shepherds would trap the birds

and sell them to hotels and poulterers

in Brighton, Eastbourne and London,

so much so that they became practically

extinct. Peter Benner has a recipe book

that contains a story about a wheatear

pie that saved a Sussex Cavalier from

the Roundheads who were going to

make a “pye” of him! These days you

might be lucky and spot a wheatear at

Medmerry, although maybe in a giant

periwinkle rather than a pie.

Our thanks to Peter Benner

for his insights into the

Seven Good Things of Sussex.


53

FOOD

In the

Kitchen

FOOD

Easy-Peasy Lemon Squeezy Lemon & Elderflower Curd

Home-made lemon curd is so much nicer than shop

bought, and this recipe will add a lovely touch of

spring to your sponge cake, ice cream or meringue

with the addition of a little elderflower cordial!

I’ve always thought of lemon curd as a bit of a fiddle

to make, involving lots of messing around with

a double boiler, etc. but this recipe is an absolute

breeze. The trick is to err on the side of caution

and heat gently; if the mixture starts to scramble

a little (you’ll see white lumps appearing) whip it

off the heat, allow it to cool slightly, then continue

at a lower temp. Although ideally the curd will be

smooth, if it has a few little “issues” pour it through

a colander while still hot to remove any lumps

(much easier to clean up than a sieve!).

This recipe makes enough to fill a jam jar which will

last 2-3 weeks in the fridge; plenty for sandwiching

a sponge cake or making lemon curd cupcakes (with

enough to eat on hot buttered toast for days after!).

Ingredients

200 g caster sugar (granulated is fine, but I am

impatient and caster sugar melts more easily)

50 g butter (I like to use salted as it gives a little

extra bite to the curd)

3 eggs

Either 2 lemons and 1 tbs elderflower cordial OR

3 lemons, juice and zest for both


Method

1. Whisk the eggs well in a jug.

2. Add the butter, sugar, lemon juice, zest and cordial

(if using) to a large pan and place over a low heat,

stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and

the sugar and butter have melted.

3. Remove the pan from the heat and slowly pour

the well-whisked eggs into the saucepan in a thin

stream, whisking constantly as you add them (this

agitation will stop the eggs from scrambling).

4. Turn the heat up a little and cook for 3 minutes

or so until the mixture thickens up. It is really

important you continue to stir the whole time,

ensuring you reach all around the pan in order

to stop the egg cooking too quickly; don’t let the

curd boil!

5. The mixture is ready when it has thickened into

a custard, turned opaque and coats the back of a

spoon; pour into a clean sterilised jar and allow to

cool to room temperature before popping in the

fridge to set. A small piece of baking paper laid across

the top of the curd will help prevent a skin forming.

6. The curd will last 2-3 weeks in the fridge or can be

frozen for up to six months.

Becci Coombes is Winner of F:entrepreneur100,

Winner of BT’s Best Home Business of the

Year and Remote Worker Awards and The

Mumpreneur 100. She is also an author and

founder of Hygge Style.

Lemon and Elderflower Iced Muffins

This is my absolute go-to recipe for small cakes

and muffins; easily customised with chocolate

chunks and a squished up banana, marzipan and

chopped cherries or a hidden spoonful of Nutella,

they are super-quick to knock up and require

minimal mixing.

Here they have a little home-made lemon and

elderflower curd in the centre to add a delicious zesty

gooey-ness and are iced at my mum’s request with

her favourite food group ever, white lemon icing;

shop-bought curd works brilliantly too!

Ingredients

300 g self-raising flour

150 g sugar

240 ml milk

60 ml sunflower oil

1 egg

½ tsp baking powder

1 lemon, juice and zest

6 teaspoons of lemon curd or our Easy-Peasy

Lemon & Elderflower Curd

For the icing

200 g icing sugar

1 lemon, juiced

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees and line a 12-

hole muffin tin with paper cases.

2. Tip the flour, sugar and baking powder into a

large bowl.

3. Add the egg, milk and oil to the bowl and stir

until everything is just about combined; the trick

is to not over mix it!

4. Pour in the lemon juice, add the zest then give

the mix one final stir.

5. Place a dessert spoon of mixture into each paper

case, then carefully add half a teaspoon of lemon

curd into the centre of each one.

6. Divide the rest of the mixture between the cakes,

spooning it over the top of the curd.

7. Bake for around 15 minutes until the tops are

springy and the sponge golden, before moving

them onto a wire rack to cool.

Once the cakes are at room temperature, make the

icing. Place the icing sugar in a large bowl and pour

over the lemon juice. Add boiling water, a spoonful

at a time, stirring well until the icing has reached a

thick creamy consistency.

Divide the icing between the cakes, using the back

of a spoon to nudge it gently towards the edges.

Decorate with edible flowers such as primroses if you

have any!

55

DRINK

DRINK

Pour Choices: a natural wine

wonderland

Naturally Brilliant

Wine is one of life’s

simple pleasures – but

have you ever stopped

to wonder how it’s

made? Once upon

a time, winemaking was a beautifully

simple process: grapes, a bit of patience,

and nature doing its thing. Over the

years, though, we started intervening,

adding chemicals, tweaking flavours, and

filtering wines to within an inch of their

lives. But now, a growing movement of

winemakers is returning to the roots of

the craft with low-intervention wines –

proof that sometimes, less really is more.

What exactly is natural wine?

Low-intervention wines, often referred to

as natural wines, are made with as little

meddling as possible, letting the grapes

and nature lead the way. They start with

organically or biodynamically grown

fruit, steering clear of synthetic pesticides,

herbicides, and fertilisers. Instead,

winemakers rely on nature’s own tools like

cover cropping for healthier soils, beneficial

insects for pest control, and, in some cases,

The Rise of Low-Intervention Wines

sheep roaming the vineyards in winter to

nibble weeds and fertilise the land. This

creates balanced ecosystems that nurture

healthy vines and delicious grapes.

Fermentation is where natural wine

takes an exciting turn. Instead of using

commercial yeasts for predictability,

natural winemakers embrace wild yeasts

found on the grape skins and in the cellar.

These indigenous yeasts bring complexity,

crafting wines that are a true snapshot

of their environment. Sulfite use, often

a hot topic in wine circles, is kept to a

minimum, relying mostly on the naturally

occurring sulfites from fermentation.

This hands-off approach ensures the wine

retains its authentic character and flavour

without masking additives.

Things get a little cloudy – quite

literally – when it comes to fining

and filtering. Natural wines are left

unfiltered and unfined, meaning they

may look a little hazy or have a touch

of sediment at the bottom of the bottle.

It’s not a flaw – it’s a badge of honour!

That cloudiness is a sign that what you

are drinking is alive, unpolished, and

brimming with personality.

What’s the hype?

Natural wines are exciting because they

embrace unpredictability. Unlike their

conventional counterparts, which are

engineered for consistency year after year,

natural wines wear their vintage on their

sleeve. One year might deliver fresh citrus

and delicate floral notes, while the next

could bring herbal, earthy flavours with a

funky twist. Every pour is an adventure,

a testament to the vineyard, the weather,

and the winemaker’s light touch.

But the allure goes beyond what’s in the

glass. Natural wine reflects a lifestyle

rooted in simplicity, connection, and

respect for the planet. Many producers

champion regenerative farming practices

that don’t just sustain the land but actively

restore it. By nurturing biodiversity

and rejecting harmful chemicals, these

winemakers protect fragile ecosystems

while producing wines full of life

and vitality. It’s a craft that challenges

industrial norms in favour of something

more soulful.

Take Tillingham, for example. Nestled in

the picturesque village of Peasmarsh, East

Sussex, this vineyard is a shining star in the

natural wine scene. Seamlessly blending

ancient techniques with a forward-thinking

ethos, Tillingham crafts wines that

showcase the best of what low-intervention

winemaking can achieve. From their

vibrant pét-nats, brimming with zesty

freshness and lively bubbles, to their

elegant skin-contact whites with layers of

depth and complexity, every bottle offers a

glimpse into the vineyard’s unique terroir

and the playful artistry behind it.

Curious to explore this vibrant world

for yourself? Mark your calendars for

Pour Choices Wine Fair, returning to

Wagner Hall in Brighton on 12 April

2025. This isn’t your typical formal wine

tasting – it’s a full-blown celebration of

all things natural wine.

Expect a dazzling line-up of

winemakers from across the UK

(including the Tillingham team)

showcasing everything from bright,

juicy reds to funky orange wines

and experimental pét-nats. Wander

through the stalls, chat with passionate

producers, and sip your way through

the kaleidoscope of flavours that define

the low-intervention scene.

For those eager to learn more,

workshops and masterclasses offer

the chance to dive deeper into the

craft. Discover the secrets of wild

fermentation, refine your tasting skills,

or learn how regenerative farming is

shaping the future of winemaking.

Why natural wine matters

Natural wine isn’t just a trend; it’s

a movement that’s challenging the

norms of the wine industry. It’s about

stripping away the unnecessary and

focusing on what really matters: quality,

authenticity, and connection. It’s wine

with a sense of place, a sense of purpose,

and yes, sometimes a sense of humour.

By supporting natural winemakers,

you’re also supporting small,

independent producers who are

often working against the odds in an

industry dominated by big players.

You’re championing biodiversity,

sustainable farming, and a deeper

respect for the land. And let’s be

honest, you’re also getting to drink

some seriously cool wine.

Natalia is a WSETcertified

wine

educator with

a passion for

storytelling and a

knack for making

the world of wine

approachable and

fun. When she’s not

writing, she’s busy

hosting tastings,

leading courses,

and offering

consultancy to help

others discover

the joy of wine.

winerocks.co.uk


FOOD

FOOD

Knepp deer

Deer Dilemma

How eating wild can help save the wild, by Sarah Thompson

Sussex is facing an ecological challenge:

unchecked deer overpopulation, which

is wreaking havoc on the delicate

ecosystems. Ancient woodlands are under

threat, natural habitats are eroding, and

biodiversity is declining. But there’s a practical,

sustainable solution – one that benefits both nature

and local communities: eating venison.

With deer numbers continuing to rise, local farmers

and wildlife managers have teamed up with the

Fair Game Project, an initiative designed to control

populations responsibly while promoting sustainable

food sources. This approach not only helps maintain

ecological balance but also provides a healthy,

affordable alternative to conventional meats. The

impact could extend even further – venison has the

potential to revolutionise school meal programs by

offering a nutritious, cost-effective protein option.

Why does deer management matter?

As a prey species, deer reproduce at a rate that

far exceeds what is necessary for population

sustainability. Without natural predators, unchecked

herds grow exponentially – for example, 100 roe deer

can become 1,000 in just ten years. Historically, deer

would expand into new territories, but today, their

range already covers every suitable habitat in the

UK. Their primarily dawn and dusk activity makes

them nearly invisible to many people, leading to an

Muntjac Deer © Pixabay

Sika deer © Marcel Langthim

underestimation of their impact. Without human

intervention, their rising numbers can devastate local

ecosystems and agricultural lands.

This issue extends further due to the introduction

of invasive deer species including Muntjac and Sika

deer. Their populations have surged across Sussex,

particularly within the South Downs National

Park. These non-native species pose significant

ecological threats:

• Muntjac Deer – Originally from China, this small

but highly destructive deer breed year-round,

stripping bark and decimating young woodlands.

• Sika Deer – Introduced from Asia, they interbreed

with native red deer, disrupting genetic diversity

and altering natural habitats.

Both species contribute to severe overgrazing,

preventing the regeneration of vital vegetation and

threatening biodiversity. Without intervention, the

damage could become irreversible.

The importance of responsible deer

management

Ethical deer management involves more than just

culling – it’s about maintaining a healthy, balanced

ecosystem. When conducted under best-practice

guidelines, culling helps control numbers, prevent

overgrazing, and reduce conflicts with agriculture

and infrastructure. Sustainable management ensures

that deer populations remain strong without

overwhelming their environment.

The Fair Game Project supports licensed, trained

professionals in conducting humane culls that mirror

natural predation. This ensures that deer continue

to thrive, habitats regenerate, and biodiversity is

protected. In addition to conservation benefits,

responsible deer management provides a valuable

food resource– wild, local venison.

The solution: culling for conservation

To combat the issue, farmers and wildlife managers

across Sussex have been enlisted to help control deer

numbers. The Fair Game Project encourages licensed

hunters to cull deer sustainably, ensuring that the

meat is put to good use within local communities.

This approach is not just about population control–

it’s a long-term strategy for maintaining a thriving,

balanced ecosystem.

Venison provides a solution that extends beyond

conservation. It’s a lean, nutritious, and affordable

protein source that could be integrated into

community meal programs, including school

lunches. By utilising wild venison, we can

address both an environmental crisis and a food

sustainability issue in one stroke.

Health benefits of venison

Venison is not only sustainable but also an excellent

health-conscious alternative to conventional meats.

• Calories: 150-170 kcal per 100g

• Protein: 22-26g per 100g

• Fat: less than 5g per 100g

• Cholesterol: lower than beef, making it

heart-healthy

• Sodium: low (40-50mg per 100g)

• Iron: rich in iron, essential for oxygen transport

• B-Vitamins: excellent source of B12 and niacin

for energy metabolism

A cost-effective solution

With rising meat prices, venison presents an

affordable alternative that doesn’t compromise

on nutrition. Schools, in particular, could benefit

by sourcing venison through local farmers and

the Fair Game Project, securing high-quality

protein at a cost comparable to or lower than

conventional meats.

The growing deer population in Sussex is no small

problem, but with initiatives like the Fair Game

Project, the situation can be managed sustainably.

By embracing venison as both a food source

and an environmental solution, we can work

toward a future where local wildlife, farmers, and

communities thrive together.


FOOD

FOOD

Venison Recipes

Cost per recipe is based on a UK

average supermarket price and energy

provider and will vary depending on

your preferred supplier.

Cook time: 3 hours 15 minutes

Prep time: 15 minutes

Serves 4

Cost per serve: £2.50

Easy, nutritious and delicious

Venison Burgers

Cook time: 10 minutes

Prep time: 10 minutes

Serves 4

Cost per serve: £2.00

(including bun & toppings)

Allergens:

gluten (breadcrumbs), egg

Energy Usage (Approximate)

• Frying (electric/gas hob) for 10 minutes:

0.3 kWh £0.10

• Total estimated energy cost: £0.10

Nutritional info per serving:

• Calories: 250 kcal

• Protein: 26 g

• Fat: 10 g

• Sugar: 1 g

• Salt: 0.4 g

Allergens:

gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free

Energy usage (approximate)

• Hob simmering (gas/electric)

for 3 hours: 2.5 kWh - £0.70

• Total estimated energy cost: £0.70

Nutritional info per serving:

• Calories: 300 kcal

• Protein: 30g

• Fat: 8g

• Sugar: 5g

• Salt: 0.5g

Venison Stew

Ingredients

500g venison stew meat - £5.00

2 carrots - £0.30

1 onion - £0.20

2 potatoes - £0.50

1 cup peas - £0.50

2 cloves garlic - £0.10

1 litre beef stock - £1.50

1 tbsp olive oil - £0.15

Fresh thyme - £0.30

Salt & pepper - £0.05

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over

medium heat. Add venison and brown

on all sides

2. Add garlic, onion, carrots, and

potatoes. Cook until softened

3. Pour in beef stock. Season with salt,

pepper, and thyme

4. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a

simmer. Cook for 2-3 hours

until tender

5. Add peas in the final 10 minutes.

Serve hot

Ingredients

500 g minced venison - £5.00

1 egg - £0.20

½ cup breadcrumbs - £0.10

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce - £0.10

Salt & pepper - £0.05

Instructions:

1. Mix venison, egg, breadcrumbs,

Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper

2. Form into burger patties

3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and

cook patties for 4 minutes per side

4. Serve on a bun with toppings

of choice

Sarah Thompson is a food and

travel photographer, writer

and stylist. You can find her at

sussexkitchen.co.uk and at

@sussexkitchen

For more recipe inspiration, visit www.southdownsvenison.co.uk

Venison suppliers around Sussex, also visit your local farmer’s markets

and butchers

Southdowns Venison & Game, Duncton, Petworth, West Sussex.

www.southdownsvenison.co.uk Offers a variety of wild venison products,

including haunch joints, steaks, and sausages. Provides fantastic recipes and

promotions on their website.

Va Va Venison, Lions Green, East Sussex. www.vavavenison.co.uk

Supplies local, wild venison to private and catering customers within

a 20-mile radius of Lions Green. Offers various venison boxes to suit

different needs.

Garlic Wood Farm, Steyning, West Sussex. www.garlicwoodfarm.co.uk

Offers a range of wild Sussex venison cuts, including haunches, saddles, and

minced venison. Known for their lean, nutritious, and flavoursome products.

Wealden Game Court Lodge Farm, online only, based in Sussex.

www.wealdengame.co.uk Provides top-quality venison sourced from their

deer management operations over 8,000 acres of estate and woodland.

Sustainable Meat Eater, online only, based in Sussex.

www.sustainablemeateater.co.uk A family-run business delivering

delicious, healthy, and highly sustainable wild venison meat directly

to your door. Harvested from the Sussex countryside.

Sky Park Farm, Rogate, West Sussex. www.skyparkfarm.co.uk A familyrun

real working farm, offering authentic insights into life on a busy farm

devoted to deer. Their butchery offers naturally lean and tender venison

reared on our farm. Choose from a variety of cuts, all offering higher protein

and finer texture.

Middle Farm Butchery, Lewes, East Sussex. www.middlefarm.com

A traditional butcher’s shop specialising in additive-free meat and poultry. In

season, they sell local game such as venison, pheasant, rabbit, pigeon, and

wild boar.


61

Glorious Spring at

The Chequers Inn at

grown and foraged ingredients. His

elegant dishes are inspired by English

cuisine with a French twist and he is well

known for producing some of the region’s

best menus.

Rowhook, West Sussex

A seasonally inspired menu

The menu at The Chequers changes with

the seasons. Enjoy a light bite before a

hearty afternoon walk, such as salad of

Sussex goat cheese, beetroot, pine nuts,

crispy Serrano ham and grain mustard

vinaigrette or their Severn and Wye

smoked trout and prawn salad with

Marie rose sauce and brown bread. Or

for dinner, savour their pan-fried 8oz

sirloin steak with chips, thyme roasted

tomato, and flat cap mushrooms or tuck

into tartlet of wild mushrooms. Whatever

your choice, you’ll enjoy warm bread,

freshly prepared meals and a carefully

chosen selection of wines and beers.

Fine dining at a unique Sussex gastropub

If you’ve never eaten at The Chequers

in Rowhook, make time this spring

for a visit. Just outside the historic

town of Horsham, and surrounded

by wonderful countryside, this dog

friendly pub has plenty of space with its

two dining areas, outdoor terraces and

free parking.

The Chequers sits just to the side of

the old Roman road from Chichester

to London, and in spring, you’ll find

nearby Roman Woods awash with wild

garlic and bluebells.

Chef proprietor, Tim Neal, is a Michelin

star chef with a passion for local, home

Outstanding chefs

The Chequers has featured in the AA,

Michelin and Master Chefs of Great

Britain guides and has an outstanding

reputation for fine food, excellent wines

and great service. All of which makes The

Chequers one of the top Sussex foodie

destinations for 2025.

Booking is recommended.

The Chequers Inn

Rowhook Road, Horsham

RH12 3PY

thechequersrowhook.com

01403 790480


Are you planning

for an Inconvenient

Truth?

Without meaning to state the obvious, death inevitably marks the end of life for

everyone, and there’s simply no way of avoiding it. Death is an ‘inconvenient truth’.

In over thirty years of helping people

make arrangements for their Wills

and organise their Estate planning,

I’ve come to learn that often their

biggest concern isn’t about death

per se. Rather, people are usually most

concerned when they have to think about

passing on their wealth.

But in my opinion, planning for this

inconvenient truth can not only be a very

positive experience but is often a major

component of ensuring someone has a

“good death”, knowing that their affairs

are in order and knowing that their

wishes as to who will get their money

when they die, will be carried out. And as

we approach the end of the financial year,

now is an excellent time to start thinking

about or reviewing your Estate planning.

Starting the planning process

There is simply no one-size-fits-all

solution in planning for a good death.

Your planning will depend on you and

your circumstances but often requires

you to think beyond what you might

consider reasonably possible. Equally,

there is never a wrong time to start

planning although it is nearly always

better to start sooner rather than later.

The first question people often consider

is usually about to whom you should

bequeath your wealth, followed by

questions about how much each

beneficiary should receive. More often

than not, an individual will leave their

Estate, i.e. their money and property

(often but not always in its entirety) to

their family, to non-family members or

to institutions such as charities. As you

begin to explore the options more fully,

you may be concerned about the impact

of leaving a potentially sizeable Estate to

your successors, as well as how you might

best provide for your own future needs

in old age and possibly ill health. If you

don’t have any clear idea or know what

options are available, including charitable

bequests, now is the time to find out

more so you can begin to assess those

options in full.

Knowing what you own

Surprisingly, most people aren’t fully

aware of exactly what they own. They

might have a sense of what their wealth

is but usually not on a granular level.

However, that needs to change as soon as

you turn your attention to dealing with

the potential liabilities due in a prospective

Inheritance Tax (IHT) calculation because

at the point of your death, everything you

own – either directly or indirectly – needs

to be valued and listed. What you own

is likely to include a mixture of interests

in financial structures, trusts or personal

assets and factors such as these make a

difference to the value that’s included in

your IHT return.

Importantly, knowing this information

as you start your Estate planning will go

a long way in helping you determine

who should receive your wealth when

you die and how you should organise

your affairs.

Surprisingly, most people

aren’t fully aware of exactly

what they own.

Planning for the voluntary tax

The ramifications of death duties,

most obviously in the form of IHT

liabilities, is one issue that rears its

head with predictable reliability. That’s

not to suggest that anyone disagrees

with the concept of taxation, since its

core function is to provide benefits to

society as a whole.

It’s just that people don’t really know

how to calculate the full potential

value of their Estate in advance of

their death. This can therefore remain

a grey and murky area, which, if not

addressed properly, can result in some

unpleasant surprises and headaches for

beneficiaries to muddle through in the

early days of mourning. Under these

circumstances, nobody wants HMRC

beating down their doors demanding

its legitimate share. In fact, much of

the aggravation can be ameliorated

ahead of the merry dance that follows.

It may surprise you when I say

that, while IHT is one of the most

hated of all the taxes collectable

by HMRC, it is also the most

‘voluntary’ tax; how much your

Estate pays over on your death is,

more or less, entirely in your control.

In fact, it’s not even necessary to die

to enjoy the fruits of some of the tax

exemptions and reliefs.

It could also be argued that too

many people remain unaware of

legitimate means by which they

can limit the amount of IHT


Private Client Tax Specialists

With a focus on the future, we will help you today by looking to tomorrow

liabilities due upon their death, and

also because they simply do not know

enough about the strategies available

to mitigate future tax liabilities within

their own lifetime.

Thinking about lifetime giving

and leaving a legacy

As you start to go through the process

of planning what you want to happen to

your wealth, the possibility of lifetime

giving often comes as a surprise to those

who are in the fortunate position of

having more money than they need for

themselves. This is where the individual

makes a gift while still alive, which then

reduces their IHT liabilities upon the

occasion of their death.

For some individuals, this option is

out of the question, either because

they don’t approve of lifetime giving

or because they want to retain as much

control as possible of their wealth

during their life. But if this sounds

familiar, you need to be aware of the

impact, in respect of IHT liabilities, of

all that money sitting in your personal

Estate at the point you pass away.

As mentioned above, only once that

potential amount is quantified can

you begin to properly think about the

implications of the IHT payable if

matters were arranged differently.

What’s more, thinking more acutely

about the sort of legacy you want to

leave behind sharpens the mind – not

only in financial terms but also in

respect of longer-lasting memorable

matters. Decisions you make at this

point can help keep you alive in the

memories of others. The notion of

leaving a legacy speaks to the fact that

it’s possible for your life’s work to

continue after you’ve died.

Getting the full picture

I cannot stress enough however, that you

can only carry out your Estate planning

effectively with the benefit of professional

advice about the legal and fiscal

framework in which Estate planning

sits. In other words, you will need an

understanding of the ever-changing IHT

regime, Trusts, a number of complex tax

reliefs and a raft of rules that may have

an impact on how you structure your

finances and approach your planning.

That is not to say that you should be

daunted by this, far from it, as the role

of your adviser is to help you navigate

the framework and as I mentioned at

the start, the process of Estate planning

is, more often than not, a positive and

surprisingly cathartic one.

Stuart Ritchie is a chartered

accountant and chartered tax adviser

with over 30 years’ experience. He is

a tax partner with Ritchie Phillips

LLP based in Horsham and can be

contacted on 020 3195 1300 or

stuart.ritchie@ritchiephillps.co.uk

Our people are passionate about making a difference

When you are looking for an accountant, you will want people with a passion for and

understanding of what you need or what you do. Our unique combination of specialist skills

and experience means that we will always bring fresh ideas and added value to the table.

We are team players with a focus on helping you.

The passion that we put into what we do, and the understanding that we have for our clients,

means that our team will go far beyond simply solving problems. As well as their expertise

and enthusiasm, all members of the team enjoy working in our specialisations, and are

encouraged to share this with our clients.

Ground Floor South Suite, Afon House, Worthing Road, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1TL

T: 020 3195 1300 E: mail@ritchiephillips.co.uk W : www.ritchiephillips.co.uk


Could You Leave a

Gift in Your Will to

St Catherine’s Hospice?

A

gift in your Will is one of the most

powerful and lasting ways to make a

difference to a charity you care about.

And for a local hospice, St Catherine’s

based in Pease Pottage, these gifts are

crucial to their work.

Every year this local charity provides essential

hospice care to around 2,500 people across the

communities of West Sussex and East Surrey, free of

charge. But last year brought some of the toughest

challenges in St Catherine’s 40-year history as the

hospice announced it needed to make cost savings of

£1.5 million, change the way it delivers some of its

services and lose 40 roles including nursing staff.

Gifts in Wills make up 30% of St

Catherine’s income

Every year it costs more than £12 million to run St

Catherine’s services, and the special gifts that come

from people’s Wills leave a lasting legacy of care for

future generations.

Nicky Ifould, Head of Fundraising at St Catherine’s

said, “Gifts in Wills are one of the most profound ways

you can support our hospice. Every gift in every Will

makes a difference, especially now when the hospice

sector is facing its worst funding crisis in 20 years. Gifts

in Wills provide sustainable income for us as a local

charity and help ensure that St Catherine’s can continue

to be here to provide expert care and support to future

generations. It costs nothing today to provide care that

will touch the lives of others in years to come. We’re

incredibly grateful to anyone who considers leaving our

hospice such an extraordinary gift.”

There are various reasons why people might

choose to leave a gift to St Catherine’s

Some people leave a gift as a tribute to someone

they love, or to say thank you if their loved one was

under the care of the hospice. Other people want to

ensure future generations have access to hospice care

if they need it or make a lasting difference within

their local community.

Left to right George and Paul

There can also be tax benefits to leaving a gift in your

Will. Gifts to charities are exempt from inheritance

tax, and if the gift is worth 10% of someone’s estate

or more, then their overall rate of Inheritance Tax

will reduce from 40% to 36%.

George is currently under the care of

St Catherine’s and he and his partner Paul

have each decided to leave a gift in their

Wills to the hospice. George said,

“After Paul and I moved back from Spain we needed

to update and change our Wills as family members had

passed on.

The therapy team at St Catherine’s were helping me, so

when Paul and I got talking about who we wanted to

leave a gift in our Wills to, it was a no brainer to leave

something to St Catherine’s.

The hospice has been so helpful in getting me back

on my feet – literally. I never thought I’d walk again

when I left hospital but I can now walk short distances

unaided. I’ve also used the hospice therapy gym most

weeks – that’s been great!

We had help from a company to change our Wills.

Somebody came round and went through everything

with us, but it was quite easy to do.

It’s good to know by leaving a gift in our Wills we’re

helping make sure other people can have the same care

and support I’ve had. If you ever have anybody who

needs hospice care, leaving a gift in your Will is a good

thing to do.”

St Catherine’s has a free Will writing

service for the community

The local charity has partnered with online Will

writing platform Bequeathed, to offer a free and easy

Will writing service. There’s no obligation to include

a gift to St Catherine’s when using Bequeathed,

but if you can consider including the hospice after

those closest to you, it would make a life-changing

difference to people living with a life-limiting

condition in your community.

If you already have a Will but would like to include

a gift to St Catherine’s, you can add a simple, legal

document called a codicil. This allows you to add

an extra gift without having to update your whole

Will. It’s advisable to speak to a professional about a

codicil to ensure the process is carried out properly.

If you do choose to leave a gift to the hospice, St

Catherine’s encourages people to let them know

their intentions if they’re comfortable doing so. This

means the hospice can thank you for your wonderful

gesture, make sure you’re amongst the first to hear

important news and invite you to special events

where you can meet like-minded supporters and

learn more about the difference your gift will make.

If you have any questions about Gifts in Wills or

St Catherine’s please visit:

www.stch.org.uk/gifts-in-will, call 01293 447361 or

email: giftsinwills@stch.org.uk.

How your money helps

• £150 could help fund an individual

physiotherapy section in St Catherine’s hospice

gym, helping someone to maintain their mobility

and independence.

£2,000 will cover the cost of St Catherine’s

wellbeing services for an entire day, including

bereavement groups, group counselling and

welfare advice.

• £12,000 provides a day of expert, round the clock

care for patients and families on St Catherine’s

wards.

• £20,000 would enable St Catherine’s to deliver

a full day of care services across West Sussex and

East Surrey.


Combining

Two Rooms for

Open Plan Living

At Holmewood Interiors we are seeing an Open Plan living trend

emerging as we move forward into 2025. A desire to create a sense of

free-flowing spaciousness is instrumental to this change. Combining

the kitchen and living space can achieve this, whilst also having the

benefit of initiating a more family friendly and sociable-living set up.

Key considerations…

Before embracing Open Plan living, by

combining two rooms into one larger

space, there are some elements of the

project that need careful consideration.

Look at the balance between openness

and the need for some privacy in a large

space. How can you introduce some

definition, or even a perceived form of

separation, between the different zones

and function areas? Adequate storage,

maximising natural light, managing noise

levels, minimizing cooking smells and

ensuring there is enough display and

storage to fit every need, will all need to

be factored into your planning and design

process too.

Seamless zone transitions

The introduction of a kitchen island is

an on-trend way to effortlessly divide the

Sleek.

Clean.

Uncluttered.

These are

the most

frequent

style

requests we

have when

designing a

combined

open plan

space.

combined room, whilst creating a multifunctional

workspace and central point.

When fitted with concealed power points,

it can take the form of a study area; and

with bar seating incorporated, can also

function as a casual catch up over coffee

and dining area.

A variation to this theme is the use of a

peninsula, that is formed from a number

of cupboard and drawer units extending

from the wall to create a divide. Perfect

for boosting storage space, the feature

could have doors on both sides to make it

multipurpose.

Sleek, hidden and highly

functional

Sleek. Clean. Uncluttered. These are

the most frequent style requests we

have when designing a combined open

plan space. With stylish cabinetry and

integrated appliances, you can showcase

your own personality with a classic,

modern or statement style kitchen, which

is then complemented by room-wide

smart technology.

There is currently a strong lean towards

bolder cabinet and worktop colour

palates. Combined with handless doors

for sleek, rich styling, the addition of

sustainable natural materials adds an

additional warmth, depth and texture,

whilst pulling the independent lifestyle

zones into a flowing cohesive feel.

Energy efficient appliances are taking a

‘hidden’ centre stage! With some hobs

now incorporating extractor fans to

help reduce steam and cooking smells

before they circulate; clean, aesthetic

lines are being sustained with integrated

appliances, which can help to reduce

machine noise too.

And do not forget to hide the bin …

keep unsightly mess hidden by placing the

bin behind a cupboard door to maintain

the stylish look overall.

Lighting and flooring as

design features

The change underfoot from a modern,

cool tiled kitchen floor, to a warmer,

wooden floorboard will subconsciously

promote a different feel between two

room zones.

Good lighting for all rooms is always

important, and natural light should be

maximised with the use of large windows

and few obstructions. Importantly,

different lighting options will change the

look, feel and perception of an empty

void into a luxurious welcoming space,

bringing it to bright life, or creating a

relaxed mood as desired.

A large statement lamp, lighting fixture or

chandelier can look striking and be used

to fill a large area. Don’t be afraid to layer

your lighting with brilliant illumination

over work areas, and more ambient

mood lighting for the chill-out spaces.

Storage options

Maintaining an uncluttered appearance

throughout an Open Plan room is

so much simpler with ample storage.

Consider adding drawers in the living

space with a floating media centre. Or,

perhaps incorporate a space tower with

inner pull out drawers that are accessible

from three sides, in the kitchen.

Hard to reach back corner cupboards

can easily be accessed with swing out

units and glazed cupboards will provide

display opportunities and visual interest.

If you would like any further

information, or more tips on how

to create and personalise your

room to be proud of, please

visit our website

www.holmewoodinteriors.co.uk,

call us on 01403 254090 or email

info@holmewoodinteriors.co.uk.

We will always do what

we can to help.


In The

Library

Welcome to the latest

in the Brownlow

Mysteries in which

Sussex based pet

detective Sophie

Gorrage and her rescue dog Brownlow

investigate cases of missing animals,

coming up against ruthless criminals and

serious danger in the process.

The back story

A large shaggy mongrel, Brownlow,

has been trained by Sophie to track

missing pets by their smell. With an

extremely sensitive nose, he works to find

missing or stolen dogs, cats and other

animals, as well as occasionally taking on

wildlife detection cases. As well as using

Brownlow to find lost pets, Sophie’s a

trained drone operator and loves her

thermal-imaging binoculars and trail

cameras. She and Brownlow work from

an office in her Brighton maisonette.

A challenging upbringing has made

Sophie a loner with a sharp tongue.

Animals however all love and trust

Sophie. Brownlow is a rescued dog found

scrounging on a Kabul rubbish heap and

named after the soldier who saved him.

He was rehomed with Sophie by former

soldier Quinn James of Weatherall

Fields Animal Sanctuary, who’s now

her boyfriend. Quinn’s the only human

Sophie can be herself with.

Sophie and Brownlow have a ‘nemesis’ in

the form of rural crime officer ‘granitejawed’

PC Gemma Carmichael. Despite

being forbidden from undertaking

detective work, Carmichael unofficially

investigates pet-related crimes, putting

her and Sophie at loggerheads. They clash

and bicker but inevitably have to work

together. Sophie also has allies including

Quinn and a network of animal lovers of

all ages and backgrounds she calls upon

as needed.

Brownlow and Gorrage deal with serious

crime cases that put them in serious

danger. Clients include a rapper, ballet

dancer and TV naturalist. They tackle

villains including a deluded rights-fordogs

champion, international jewel

thieves, the illegal trade in birds of prey

and ruthless truffle hunters.

Brownlow Goes Wild

Brownlow is called in to search for

owl pellets and hedgehogs on a Sussex

farm that a TV presenter is rewilding.

But when Sophie sees two figures in

camouflage gear emerge from the tree

line, carrying ropes and a large crate, she

suspects they’re up to no good.

Sophie and Brownlow then find

themselves in a menacing underworld,

where peregrines, goshawks and even

eagles are being stolen for use in falconry

– ‘the sport of kings’. The trade in wild

caught birds is extremely lucrative and

despite the pet detectives setting a clever

trap for the thieves, soon it is they who

become the prey.

Brownlow Goes Wild is published by

Hobart Books and is available now on

Amazon.

Other books in the series so far include:

1. Sniff Them Out, Brownlow

2. Brownlow Checks In

Lovers of Sussex will recognise lots of

familiar landmarks in the series like

Shoreham Airport, Brighton Beach

and Marina, Chichester Cathedral and

Pagham Harbour.

About the author

Judy Upton lives in Shoreham-by-Sea,

West Sussex and was born here. She

is an award-winning playwright, with

numerous published novels and a feature

at Edinburgh. Amongst her many other

accolades, she is one of BBC Writers

Voices 2024 and has developed a new TV

comedy drama series outline and pilot,

Botanical, on the scheme. In 2023 she

was selected for the BBC/Climate Spring

Hothouse Development Lab, developing

a climate-themed TV mystery series,

Getting Warmer. Other TV includes

All in the Mind for the BBC1 Brief

Encounters strand.

With her Brownlow series of detective

mysteries, she captures what’s so

enduringly appealing about “cosy crime”

while weaving into it a distinctive

world and surprising journeys into the

dangerous heart of animal-related crime.

She says of the series,

“Sussex has so many fantastic

settings for a novel. We’ve quiet

beaches, the bustling seaside, city

streets, village life and beautiful

countryside including a National

Park. It’s a great place for a pet

detective and her dog to operate.

The books are for adults, but

they’re warm-hearted and no

animals are ever hurt in the plots,

so they’re fine for older children

too. Basically anyone who likes a

suspenseful mystery with lots of

twists and turns and loves animals

will enjoy them.”


Weird & Wonderful

Sussex

Dante, Midhurst

Tombstone of

Edward Vaughan

Hyde Kenealy.

Quirky, curious and sometimes just strange, Sussex has all sorts

of interesting nooks and crannies

Dante, Midhurst

West Sussex is lucky to be home to sculptor

Philip Jackson who opens his extraordinary

sculpture garden every summer and whose

work can also be found at Chichester

Cathedral. But 2024 saw the arrival of a

new piece by Jackson in Midhurst: Dante.

Dante’s tomb is a famous landmark

in Ravenna. Ravenna is twinned with

Chichester (Midhurst is part of the District

of Chichester). However, the main reason

for this new sculpture was Jackson paying

tribute to Dante’s influence on European

art, religion, and language and on his own

distinctly Italian style.

The tomb of Edward Kenealy,

Hangleton

Tucked away in a residential corner of

Hangleton in Hove is the remarkable

tombstone of Edward Vaughan Hyde

Kenealy. Barrister, politician and writer, he

is most famed for his outrageous conduct

when representing the claimant in the

famous Sir Roger Tichborne case. Sir Roger

Tichborne had been lost at sea but that

didn't stop an unlikely character claiming

to be Sir Roger and trying to get his hands

on the family inheritance. The case that

followed was sensational. The claimant

was found to be a fraud and Kenealy was

disbarred for his offensive remarks and

suggestions. All that said, the tombstone is

stunning with red, gold and blue mosaic

and the church itself is well worth a visit.

Hungers Lane,

Petworth

The Gilded Elm,

Preston Park

The Periwinkle

Shelter, Selsey

The Brown Burial

Ground, Ditchling

Hungers Lane, Petworth

Hungers Lane is an ancient sunken lane

that once ran north to south as a main

road from London to Chichester through

Petworth Park. It fell out of use when

Petworth Park was redeveloped in the

1760s although probably continued to

be used by smugglers. It is said to be

haunted and has a slightly otherworldly

feel about it.

The Gilded Elm, Preston Park

The Preston Twins were a pair of English

elm trees planted in around 1613 in

Preston Park and believed to be among

the oldest and largest English elm trees in

the world. One of the pair was lost to Elm

Disease in 2019.

However, artist Elpida Hadzi-Vasileva’s

vision of the ‘Gilded Elm’ has saved the

diseased elm tree trunk and transformed it

into a piece of art. It took two years to strip

the bark and restore the trunk. It is now

painted in gold leaf inside and tinted black

outside and can be seen opposite its twin.

The Periwinkle Shelter, Selsey

This temporary sculpture has caused

more than a little controversy with its

unusual shape. You will find it at Earnley

Viewpoint at Medmerry Nature Reserve

and it was designed and created by local

artists, Two Circles Design. It is made from

Sussex willow and was inspired by both

the surrounding environment and by the

Bronze and Middle Age history of the area

(periwinkles were found in a Medieval fish

basket by archaeologists here).

The Brown Burial Ground,

Ditchling

Head down The Twitten off Lewes Road

in Ditchling and you might notice a tiny

graveyard squashed in between houses and

gardens. It was the private burial ground of

the Brown family, who, when the Baptist

Chapel graveyard became full, created their

own graveyard in their garden.


GARDENS

GARDENS

Boost Your Wellbeing

With visits to these Stunning

NGS Sussex Gardens

Spring Old Vicarage © Jamie Walters

Duckyls

Let’s leap into spring and consider our wellbeing. Both these topics sit beautifully with the National

Garden Scheme, which has a raft of early opening gardens in the run up to Easter. Our gardening

features writer, Geoff Stonebanks, also the Publicity Officer for the NGS in East & Mid Sussex offers

us a flavour of what we can expect from some of the beautiful gardens opening across the county of

Sussex this season.

So, let’s take a look at some of the gardens that readers can visit in the coming weeks. In addition, there are

many more which you can check out at www.ngs.org.uk

There is an informal pond and specimen trees

including a very ancient oak. Many spring

flowers and tree blossom will be on view too.

See the new prairie-style garden with grasses and

perennials. In the Physic Garden there will be a

talk at 3pm on both days about medicinal plants.

THE OLD VICARAGE,

The Street, Washington, RH20 4AS.

Every Thursday from 6th February to 2nd

October from 10am to 4pm with entry £8.

Pre-booking essential, please visit www.ngs.org.

uk for information & booking.

BATES GREEN GARDEN,

Tye Hill Road, Arlington, BN26 6SH.

Bates Green © Leigh Clapp

Sunday 9th March, from 10.30am to 3.30pm

with entry £7 and children £3.50.

This plantswoman’s tranquil garden provides interest

through the seasons. See the woodland garden,

created around a majestic oak tree, the colour themed

middle garden and courtyard gardens with seasonal

container displays. The front garden is a spring joy

with narcissi, primroses and violets. Check out the

wildlife pond and wildflower meadow all gardened

for nature and wildlife. You can walk through a wild

daffodil glade leading to the 24-acre ancient oak

wood, home of the Arlington Bluebell Walk. Beatons

Wood is managed for conservation and diversity.

Limekiln Farm © Leigh Clapp

LIMEKILN FARM,

Chalvington Road, Chalvington, Hailsham,

BN27 3TA.

Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th March

from 2pm to 5pm with entry £8.

This garden was designed in the 1930s when the

house was owned by Charles Stewart Taylor, MP

for Eastbourne. It has not changed in basic layout

since then. The planting aims to reflect the age

of the 17th century property and original garden

design. The house and garden are mentioned

in Virginia Woolf’s diaries of 1929, depicting a

particular charm and peace that still exists today.

Flint walls enclose the main lawn, with herbaceous

borders, rose garden and a nepeta lined courtyard.

Wander through 3½ acres of gardens, at the front

a formally laid out area with topiary, wide lawn,

mixed border and contemporary water sculpture.

At the rear, new and mature trees from the 19th

century, herbaceous borders, a water garden

and stunning uninterrupted views of the North

Downs. The Japanese garden with waterfall and

pond leads to a large copse, stream, treehouse

and stumpery. 2000 snowdrops and mixed bulbs

are planted throughout the garden.

NEW DUCKYLS,

Selsfield Road, East Grinstead, RH19 4LP.

Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th April from

midday to 4pm with entry £8. Pre-booking is

essential, please visit www.ngs.org.uk for details.

Two hour timed slots will be available at 12pm

& 2pm to see this recently renovated, 15-acre

garden with wonderful views across Sussex.

Consisting of a rhododendron woodland, a

newly planted orchard, ponds and a more formal

secret garden there is much to see. Mostly laid

out in the 1920s and 30s by a dedicated plant

Highdown Gardens

collector and orchid breeder, the garden delights

in the blazes of spring colour to be seen. Please

note this garden includes steep slopes and many

climbs. Suitable footwear is required.

HIGHDOWN GARDENS,

33 Highdown Rise, Littlehampton Road,

Goring-by-Sea, Worthing, BN12 6FB.

Thursday 13th February from 10am to 4.30pm

with entry by donation.

Highdown Gardens were created by Sir

Frederick Stern and are the home to a collection

of rare plants and trees, many grown from

seed. A fully equipped glasshouse enables the

propagation of this National Plant Collection

and a visitor centre shares stories of the plants

and people behind the gardens. An accessible

path leads to a sensory garden with a secret

sea view. Highdown is also offering Snowdrop

Identification tours during the open day.


GARDENS

GARDENS

Pembury © Liz Seeber

The Old Rectory

Sandhill Farm House © Leigh Clapp

Fittleworth House

PEMBURY HOUSE,

Ditchling Road, Clayton, BN6 9PH.

Every Thursday and Friday from 13th February

to 7th March from 10.30am to 3.30pm with

entry £12 and home-made teas included. Prebooking

is essential, please visit www.ngs.org.

uk for information & booking. Timed slots at

10.30am & 2pm.

Depending on the vagaries of the season,

hellebores and snowdrops are at their best in

February and March. This is a country garden,

tidy but not manicured. A number of winding

paths give a choice of walks through three acres

of garden, which is in and enjoys views of the

South Downs National Park. Please wear suitable

footwear, macs and winter woollies. Plants for sale

and ideally cash preferred.

NEW KOTIMAKI,

Tottingworth Park, Broad Oak, Heathfield,

TN21 8UH.

Saturday 26th April and Saturday 17th May

from 10am to midday with entry £12 and

children £6. Pre-booking essential, please visit

www.ngs.org.uk for details.

Visit this large, creatively planted garden featuring

a long double border within yew hedging,

rockery, shade garden, exotic garden, pot garden,

wildflower meadows and kitchen garden. There

is an emphasis on continuity of interest, via

imaginative mixed plantings of shrubs, climbers,

perennials, bulbs, annuals and self-sowers; plus a

varied collection of wisterias trained as shrubs, on

trellis work and on a pergola.

THE OLD RECTORY,

ARBLETON Kingsley Hill, Warbleton,

TN21 9PT.

Tuesday 15th and Wednesday 16th April from

11am to 4pm with entry £9. Pre-booking

is essential, please visit www.ngs.org.uk for

details. Visits also by arrangement until 6th

October too.

Nestled in the High Weald AONB, The Old

Rectory Garden was re-imagined by renowned

designer Arne Maynard. His vision blends formal

elements like yew and beech topiary, a knot

Kotimaki

garden, and herbaceous borders with wildflowers

and rambling roses. A stream separates the formal

garden from an orchard interplanted with roses and

wildflowers. Over 3,000 tulips bloom in spring.

Other features include a cutting garden, pond,

copse, meadows, pot displays and gravel garden.

SANDHILL FARMHOUSE,

Nyewood Road, Rogate, Petersfield, GU31 5HU.

Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th April from 1pm

to 4pm with entry £8.

The front and rear gardens are broken up into

garden rooms including a small kitchen garden.

At the front garden there is a small woodland area,

planted with early spring flowering shrubs, ferns

and bulbs. See the white and green garden, large

leaf border and terraced area. At the rear see rose

borders, a small decorative vegetable garden, a red

border and a grasses border.

FITTLEWORTH HOUSE

Bedham Lane, Fittleworth, Pulborough,

RH20 1JH.

Every Wednesday 23rd April to 14th May

from 2pm to 5pm with entry £5. Visits also by

arrangement 22nd April to 8th August for groups

of 8 to 40.

This 3 acre, tranquil, romantic country garden has a

walled kitchen garden growing a wide range of fruit,

vegetables and flowers including a large collection of

dahlias. There is a large glasshouse and old potting

shed, mixed flower borders, roses, rhododendrons

and lawns. See the magnificent 115ft tall cedar

which overlooks a wisteria covered Grade II listed

Georgian house.

BY ARRANGEMENT GARDENS

These are just a selection of gardens open in

the coming weeks but there are many gardens

that open by arrangement too, so please take

a look at those listed on the NGS website,

www.ngs.org.uk Just go to the home page and

click on the FIND A GARDEN tab then the

BY ARRANGEMENT tab. These wonderful,

often hidden gems are really worth exploring

especially if you are keen to return to a garden

you love or perhaps missed a public open day.

By Arrangement gardens cater for different

group sizes from as few as one to 20+, it all

depends on the size and accessibility of the

garden, some have fixed prices for entry others

are agreed in discussion with the garden owner.

Full details on all openings at www.ngs.org.uk


HEALTH

HEALTH

How to Beat

(or at Least Survive)

the Common Cold

It’s that time of year when colds seem to

be everywhere and they also seem to hang

around for ages. So here are our Sussex health

consultant’s advice on how to minimise your

risk of catching a cold and what to do if you do!

Prevention

There is no 100% reliable way of preventing colds,

but risks can be reduced by washing your hands

regularly, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables,

getting regular exercise, sleep, avoiding prolonged

periods in overly warm and poorly ventilated rooms;

and limiting your stress levels.

When symptoms first appear:

Ways to support the immune system and speed

recovery include the following:

• Drink plenty of fluids in order to maintain water

balance and to thin mucous secretions

• Eat raw garlic, which has antibacterial and

antiviral properties. Crush a clove or two and add

to foods like soups and grains just before serving

• A humidifier may provide some comfort

The key thing to remember is that the annoying

symptoms of a cold are part of the natural healing

process – evidence that the immune system is

battling illness. For example, a fever is the body’s

way of trying to kill viruses in a hotter-than-normal

environment. Also, the heat from the fever makes

germ-killing proteins in the blood circulate more

quickly and effectively. So a moderate fever for a day

or two will actually speed up the recovery process.

Coughing is another productive symptom as

it prevents infected mucous from reaching

the base of the lungs and creating secondary

infections. Decongestants are generally not a good

idea as they work by restricting the flow to the blood

vessels in the nose and throat; but this in turn causes

rebound congestion and stasis and more risk of

secondary infection.

Once a cold is apparent:

1. Daily saltwater nasal rinse may be beneficial to

speed up the recovery and reduce the need for

OTC medications.

2. Blow your nose often – but the right way.

Regularly blowing your nose avoids mucous

from being sniffed back into the head. But

avoid blowing hard, as the pressure can push the

infected mucous back into the sinuses, increasing

congestion and prolonging the cold; or into the

ear canals, causing earache.

3. Staying warm and resting when you first

come down with a cold or the flu helps the

body to focus its energy on upregulating the

immune system.

4. Gargling can moisten a sore throat and bring

temporary relief. Try a teaspoon of salt dissolved

in warm water, four times daily. An astringent

gargle, such as tea (which contains tannins) will

tighten the membranes and reduce an irritating

tickle in the throat. Or use a thick, viscous gargle

made with honey, sage and cayenne pepper all

of which are slightly antibacterial or antiseptic.

Steep fresh sage leaves with the cayenne in

100 ml of just boiled water for 10 minutes.

Add about 50 ml of honey; you can also add

a pinch of salt and some cider vinegar to help

loosen mucous. Let the mixture cool to room

temperature before gargling.

5. Hot liquids relieve nasal congestion, prevent

dehydration and soothe the uncomfortably

inflamed membranes of the nose and throat.

6. Steamy showers moisturise the nasal passages and

generally relax the body.

7. A small dab of mentholated cream under the nose

can open breathing passages and help restore the

irritated skin at the base of the nose. Menthol,

eucalyptus and camphor all have mild numbing

ingredients that may help relieve the pain of a

nose rubbed raw.

8. Sleeping with an extra pillow under the head will

help relieve congested nasal passages.

9. Don’t fly unless it is absolutely necessary. The

change in air pressure will increase the stress on

the upper respiratory system and may temporarily

damage your eardrums.

Dietary Modification

Excessive sugar, dietary fat, and alcohol all

compromise immune function, so are best avoided.

Some good foods to eat when battling a cold or flu:

• Bananas: Soothe upset stomachs

• Peppers: Loaded with vitamin C

• Blueberries: Curbs diarrhoea, high in natural

aspirin. (May lower fevers and help with the

aches and pains)

• Carrots: Loaded with beta-carotene

• Chilli peppers: Can open sinuses, and help break

up mucous in the lungs

• Mustard and horseradish: Helps break up mucous

in air passages

• Onion: Has phytochemicals claimed to help the

body clear bronchitis and other infections

• Rice: Curbs diarrhoea

• Tea: Black and green tea (not herbals) contain

catechin, a phytochemical claimed to have

natural antibiotic and anti-diarrhoea effects.

Honey is a popular home remedy for cough

and colds. Honey works by coating and

soothing an irritated throat and it also has

antioxidant and antibacterial effects. Manuka

honey has the most research accrediting it with

potent antibacterial activity.

Nutritional Supplement Treatment

Options

Vitamin C can reduce the duration of the cold and

the severity of symptoms. The optimum amount

of vitamin C to take for cold treatment remains

in debate but may be as high as 1 to 3 grams per

day – considerably more than the 75 to 90 mg per

day that has been suggested as optimal intake for

healthy adults.

Zinc Lozenges – Zinc may interfere with viral

replication and with the ability of viruses to enter


HEALTH

cells of the body. It is believed to help your

immune cells to fight a cold and may relieve

cold symptoms. The best effect is obtained when

lozenges are used at the first sign of a cold.

Monolaurin is used for treating the common

cold as well as a host of other viral and

bacterial infections.

Mushroom formulas – increasing amounts

of research on medicinal mushrooms indicate

that they can improve the function of the

immune system; as well as being antiinflammatory

and protective against diabetes,

heart disease and cancer.

Probiotics – double blind trials have shown that

daily supplementation with Lactobacillus GG (a

probiotic organism) for 3 months can decrease the

incidence of upper respiratory tract infections and

common infectious diseases in young children.

Propolis is the resinous substance collected

by bees from the leaf buds and bark of trees.

Propolis extracts may be helpful in preventing and

shortening the duration of the common cold.

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a potent antioxidant

that has been used for several years to treat various

lung conditions such as bronchitis due to its

expectorant or mucolytic properties.

Vitamin D –Research suggests that low levels of

vitamin D are associated with an increased risk of

upper respiratory infections. In fact, declining levels

of vitamin D during the winter months is one of

the recent hypotheses for the increasing incidence of

colds and the flu during winter months.

Article contributed by Dr Tracy S Gates, DO, DIBAK,

L.C.P.H., Consultant, Pure Bio Ltd. Copyright © Pure Bio

Ltd 2024. All rights reserved

Pure Bio Ltd are a leading UK supplier of the highest

quality PURE nutritional supplements, based in

Horsham, West Sussex. Visit www.purebio.co.uk

for all your nutritional supplement needs

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Extra-C is a highly effective form of

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important for the normal function of

the immune system.

ANDROGRAPHIS COMPLEX – £25.45

Andrographis Complex includes

standardised Andrographis leaf extract,

which helps to ease coughs and sore

throats as well as general upper respiratory

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MONOLAURIN – £16.99

Monolaurin is used to treat Candida

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Explore more

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t: 01403 254090 e: info@holmewoodinteriors.co.uk www.holmewoodinteriors.co.uk


83

TRAVEL

Exploring

Saint Gervais les Bains

For those that want a little bit more than just skiing

Saint Gervais les Bains is a

traditional French Alpine village

with a bustling local community

and an approach to life that

embraces simplicity and nature.

The village (that feels more like a small

town) is in the Haute Savoie department,

about an hour from Geneva, west of the

well-known resort of Chamonix and

under the benevolently watchful eye of

Mont Blanc (the highest mountain in

western Europe).

If you love the call of the mountains and the

idea of snow, but want a destination that has

something for everyone regardless of skiing

ability and with other things to explore, it’s a

great choice. If you want a destination that is

working hard on protecting its environment

and has an authentic Alpine vibe, well then,

all the better.

The skiing

From Saint Gervais village, it’s a short


TRAVEL

TRAVEL

(and free) bus ride to the (brand new)

Alpin gondola that takes you up to the

mountains and the small village of Le

Bettex (at an altitude of 1450 m). It’s

there that you’ll find the local ski school

and 450 km of skiing pistes available on

your ski pass.

The skiing is a great mix of easier

and tougher runs. For confident and

able skiers, the slopes are challenging

and interesting enough to keep you

entertained while for the less able

skier, there are green and blue runs

a plenty. With over a hundred lifts,

and snowmaking machines, it’s a well

signed and organised ski area with lots

of restaurants and bars on the slopes.

In short, if all you’re after is a week

spent skiing, Saint Gervais is a great

choice, and you’ll find it not quite

as crowded or blingy as some of its

neighbouring resorts.

For more information about skiing:

Lift passes: www.ski-saintgervais.com/

en/h1-tarif-evasion-mt-blanc

Ski school: www.ski-school-saintgervais.co.uk/adults/

Snow walking

Snow walking is a fantastic alternative

for those that aren’t keen on skiing but

want to enjoy the mountains and get off

the beaten track. But to get the best (and

safest) snow walking experience, you will

need a guide.

The Compagnie des Guides Saint Gervais

is an association of highly qualified and

experienced local, freelance guides. You

can walk as part of a group or you can

book one to one walks. You can also

book anything from a half day walk, to

a week of walking. Our guide, Claire

George, also runs sunset walks which are

a great way to see the wildlife. The walk is

followed by fondue in a mountain yurt.

Snow walking requires no special skills

(other than the ability to walk) and it

takes you away from the hustle and

bustle of the ski slopes. You’ll discover

silent forests, animal tracks and forgotten

farmsteads clinging to the mountains

up in the Alpage (the high grazing).

You’ll traverse undisturbed snow, wind

your way through the pine trees and

mountains and enjoy views that are

as stunning as they are silent. It’s slow

tourism at its best and a good guide will

be able to explain the history, the geology,

the wildlife and the folklore as you walk.

Saint Gervais the village

In the village, you’ll find the usual ski

shops, but you’ll also find pottery, art

and a couple of really good delis if you

want to buy local produce, namely,

Retour des Alpages and Leon d’ la

Savoie. Best local buys include dried

sausage, cheese and plenty of local

liqueurs, like the popular Genépi.

Look out for the street art in the village

which includes a brightly coloured wall

known as Die Cast painted in 2018 and

a commemorative painting of 1921,

when François Durafour flew a Caudron

G.3 aircraft from Lausanne, landing

on the summit of Dôme du Goûter (at

an altitude of 4,331 metres and next to

Mont Blanc) before returning to base. He

was the first pilot to land and take-off at

such a high altitude and to land on and

take-off from snow in a Caudron G.3.

Baroque masterpieces

Snow walking

St Gervais

The church of Saint

Nicolas de Véroce

La croute dish at

Le Boitet

Make sure you also include a visit to the

Baroque church in the village centre.

It’s late 17 th century with nine modern

stained-glass windows designed by a

Korean artist. It replaced an earlier

Medieval church. It’s open during the

day and has a striking interior.

Another must visit is the church of Saint-

Nicolas de Véroce – it’s about 7 km away

from Saint Gervais but you can catch

a free bus there. This early 18 th century

Baroque masterpiece overlooking the

valley has a painted vaulted ceiling in

colours of Saint-Nicolas blue and gold, as

well as intricately carved altarpieces and

trompe-l’oeil. It is magnificent and next

door is a museum with various artefacts.

There is some great walking from Saint-

Nicolas including a 6.5 km Baroque trail

between the two churches, but this is

subject to favourable snow and weather

conditions and may be better for the very

end of the winter season. Saint-Nicolas is

also home to a 5-star hotel which owns

a fantastic little bakery and the Bistrot

du Mont Joly opposite, so perhaps treat

yourself there before you leave.

Travel in style

The Mont Blanc Tramway travels up

from 580 metres (at the village of Le

Fayet) via Saint Gervais to 1800 metres

at Bellevue on the highest rack and

pinion railway in France. It’s recently

been updated and now travels at the

heady speeds of 20 mph. It’s a lovely

way to get further up the mountains and

follow in the footsteps of the intrepid

explorers who seek to conquer Mount

Blanc. Once at the top, you’re in the

Les Houches ski area. There is walking

and skiing here which will probably take

you a day to explore but you will need a

separate ski pass.

Dip into the warm waters of the

thermal spa

Saint Gervais is also the only ski resort

in France which has a thermal spa. A

half day visit here is perfect for the end

of your stay and a chance to soothe any

aching muscles. The mountain water

is 6,000 years old, rich in sulphur and

minerals and used for both medical and

wellbeing treatments. They have all sorts

of wellness experiences, from bubbling

warm waters outside in the crisp icy air,

steam rooms and aromatic hammams, to

a rain forest area and a salt cave.

Catch the new Ascenseur des Thermes

lift to the spa. It is free, runs throughout

the day, takes only a few minutes and

is unique in France as it is powered by

wastewater. It’s also quite fun.

Places to eat

Le Boitet is on the slopes, not far from

Le Bettex. It is owned and run by three

Michelin star chef, Emmanuel Renaut.

On his personal recommendation, I

tried his La Croûte aux Fromage de nos

Montagnes, Oignons et Champignons

– chunky bread baked in local cheese,

onions and one of Renaut’s favourite


TRAVEL

The

Sussex Exclusive Quiz

So how did you do?

ingredients, local wild mushrooms. It’s

definitely the food of the mountains and

follow it with a sugar lump soaked in the

local raspberry flavoured liquor for a real

taste of the region.

Rond de Carotte in Saint Gervais has a

relaxed but smart atmosphere and some

great local dishes. Try their Gougère

(cheesy choux pastry balls), their

local trout and their dos de cerf roti

(roast venison).

Le Galeta. Not far from Saint Gervais

church, this chalet style restaurant has

a laid-back vibe and is perfect for local

specialities like fondue, tartiflette or steak

cooked over a wood fired grill.

1. A 'wheatear' is a small migratory

bird which used to be common on

the South Downs and was once

considered a local delicacy.

2. You will find the 'Wish Tower'

in Eastbourne.

3. The Ouse Valley Viaduct has 37

semi-circular arches.

4. Dante is installed in Midhurst by

South Pond.

5. Two Circles Design are responsible

for The Periwinkle Shelter in Selsey.

6. King George IV.

7. Lancing Chapel is the world's largest

school chapel.

8. Shoreham Airport was the world's

first commercial airport.

9. Chailey Windmill.

10. Edward Vaughan Hyde Kenealy

was most famed for his outrageous

conduct when representing the

claimant in the famous Sir Roger

Tichborne case.

Where to stay

Coeur des Neiges is a chocolate box

pretty, family run hotel right in the

centre of town. A real fire greets you and

you’ll enjoy views of the mountains as

you wake up with your coffee in their

breakfast room. You’ll also receive a warm

“Saint Gervais” welcome from your host.

Transport and travel

You can travel to Saint Gervais by train

from Paris (normally with one change

required). The new Le Valléen gondola is

right next to the station and takes you up

to the village. There is also free parking in

Saint Gervais and a great local bus service

which is also free. Transfers by taxi from

Geneva are approximately 1 hour.

The tourist office is in the centre of

the village and is an excellent resource:

L’Office de Tourisme | Saint-

Gervais Mont-Blanc

Lunch at Le Boitet

Fondue

Coeur des Neiges

Hotel

Emmanuel Renaut

Local cheese

Local street art


89

The

Last Word

Sussex Faith Cures

If you’re feeling a little under the weather, a Sussex Wayfarer

has some traditional Sussex cures for you.

“There was once a deep-rooted faith in red flannel as

possessing some virtue on the treatment of colds and

similar ailments. A mess of boiled onions and the

head wrapped in mother’s red flannel petticoat was a

common country cure for a cold in the head.

A piece of red flannel around the neck was the

palliative of a sore throat. Red flannel chest protectors

were a la mode, and even chemists’ shops stocked them.

A girdle of red flannel or a skein of red silk was the

remedy for lumbago.

Some years ago, I was at a meet of hounds on a very

cold morning and complained to a friend of being

troubled with cramp in my toes. A Sussex whipperin

overheard the remark, and leaning from his saddle

whispered, ‘Get a piece of red flannel, fold it seven

times, draw it between the toes two or three times and

you will never have cramp in the toes.’.

An old Sussex dame of Haywards Heath has cures for

almost every ailment that the winter brings along.

Possibly the most curious is that of mistletoe tea as

a cure for ‘St Vitus’ Dance’*. The old lady also knew

where to find mistletoe.

Many a Sussex countryman pockets his first new

potato, and carries it, until it hardens like a stone, as a

preventative for rheumatism…I knew of an old Sussex

ploughman who pinned his faith on turpentine as a

charm against rheumatism.

A few years ago… a well-known local gardener asserted

that the best cure for a headache was to grasp tightly in

the hands some scraped horse radish.

The strangest cure I have ever heard of in my

wanderings was that of swallowing live frogs as a cure

or prevention of consumption. Chatting one day with

an East Sussex policeman, he told me when he was

stationed in the Mayfield district, he knew a resident

determined to try the remedy. He did so with what he

believed was great success. The constable knew it was

no fairy tale as he himself had caught some young frogs

for the gentleman to swallow. ...the gentleman lived

to 80 years of age. Whether live frogs can be claimed

as an orthodox cure for consumption or not, they were

evidently a nourishing article of diet, and certainly

conducive to living to a good old age.”

*St Vitus’ Dance was a nickname for Sydenham’s

chorea, a disorder that causes involuntary jerking

and twitching as a result of rheumatic fever.

Sussex County Magazine 1928


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