Ditchling Museum of Art & Craft

The Ditchling Museum of Art and Craft is within walking distance of Hassocks railway station, across the South Downs. The Museum holds an internationally important collection of work by the artists and craftspeople who were drawn to the village in the early 20th century.

Based in a former school building, the centre had its first incarnation as a Museum created by Joanna and Hilary Bourne. A £2.3m redevelopment fund assisted the remodelling of the building which opened once again in 2013. With dedicated learning spaces, a new shop and café, the beautiful design (by Adam Richards Architects) has attracted much attention, winning numerous art and architecture awards and named the first venue in Sussex to be a Clore Learning Space.

The collection includes work by Eric Gill who arrived in the village in 1907, together with the guild of artists and craft workers he co-founded with Hilary Pepler, Desmond Chute and Joseph Cribb. Other important artists featured include typographer Edward Johnston, weaver Ethel Mairet and painters Frank Brangwyn (who painted artwork for many rail travel posters) and Charles Knight. The gallery continues to support a vibrant local art scene.

'An unmissable stop on the Sussex art trail' Rupert Christiansen, Daily Telegraph.

Open Wednesday to Sunday. Check the website for opening hours.

Good to know

Directions: (by train) Hassocks railway station is approximately two miles (45 mins) from Ditchling on the Brighton to London route. Go to National Rail Enquiries for more information. From Hassocks, it is either a five-minute taxi journey or a leisurely walk or cycle to Ditchling.

By foot: Ditchling is situated in the South Downs National Park and there's a variety of routes to suit all abilities. Follow in the artists' footsteps and walk from Hassocks to Ditchling.

By bike: Ditchling is a short cycle off the South Downs Way. Go to Sustrans for more information. You can even hire a bike for the day from Hassocks railway station, with a 10% discount when you visit the museum – contact Hassocks Community Cycle Hire for more information.

By bus: to find out more about bus services to Ditchling, go to Traveline for more information. You can travel by bus to Ditchling from
• Hurstpierpoint on the 33 Service on Saturdays (1 service only)
• Lewes on the 167 Service on Monday – Friday
• Brighton on the 271 Service on Sundays and Public Holidays, which goes to Hassocks. You can continue on foot, by bike or taxi.