Situated in the Sussex South Downs, the museum focuses on the artists and craftspeople who made Ditchling a creative hub in the 20th century.
Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft has a frequently changing programme of exhibitions and displays alongside a growing permanent collection. The site is home to a nationally important collection of artefacts made by the arts and craftsmen who lived in the village, such as typographer and sculptor Eric Gill, designer of the London Underground font Edward Johnston and printer Hilary Pepler.
The fabulous shop and café are nestled in the restored 18th-century Cart Lodge. Browse bespoke items, beautiful books, prints, cards, jewellery, ceramics and gifts or enjoy special teas and coffees, and a slice of delicious locally-made cake or quiche. Entrance to the Cart Lodge is free.
The site was originally founded by sisters Hilary and Joanna Bourne in 1985 as a place to display their collection of local artworks, but in 2012 a £2.3 million grant from HLF and other donors paved the way for a major renovation project.
Designed by by Adam Richards Architects, the new space offers views out over Ditchling, allowing the works to be set against the backdrop of where they were created. The collection has also been refocused to provide a comprehensive account of the village's artistic heritage, leading the museum to be described as 'an unmissable stop on the Sussex art trail'.
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
|---|---|
| Adult | £8.00 per adult |
| Concession | £7.00 per concession |
Under 18s (must be accompanied by an adult) – Free
Friends of Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft – Free
National Art Pass – Free
Museum Association Members – 50% discount
Carers for Registered Disabled – Free
Group visit (groups of 10+) – Please see group visits for more information
Ditchling is 10 minutes from the A23, which runs between London and Brighton. Turn onto the A273 and follow signs to Ditchling. The Museum is located in the centre of the village, just off the B2116 on Lodge Hill Lane, next to the village green and duck pond.
Although there is no on-site parking at the Museum, you can park for free throughout the village and at the Village Hall car park (a 5-minute walk from the Museum).
Train
Hassocks Train Station is approximately 2 miles from Ditchling on the Brighton to London route. There are regular trains from London (Victoria, St Pancras or London Bridge stations: approximately 50 minutes journey) and Brighton (approximately 10 minutes journey). Go to National Rail Enquiries for more information.
From Hassocks it is either a 5 minute taxi journey or a leisurely walk or cycle to Ditchling. Five Star Taxis is based in Hassocks (t: 01273 846666).
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.
Foot
Ditchling is situated in the South Downs National Park and there are a variety of routes to suit all abilities. Follow in the artists’ footsteps and walk from Hassocks to Ditchling, or if you are feeling a little more energetic, hike from the South Downs Way at Ditchling Beacon.
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 Train Station, with a 10% discount when you visit the museum – contact Hassocks Community Cycle Hire for more information.
| Check website for Christmas opening hours (1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Day | Times | |
| Monday - Wednesday | Closed | |
| Thursday - Saturday | 10:30 | - 17:00 |
| Sunday | 11:00 | - 17:00 |
| Bank Holiday | 11:00 | - 17:00 |
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