SUSSEX MODERN

October 14, 2022

Sussex Modern is a new collaboration of carefully curated galleries, artist houses, wineries and performance venues all designed to celebrate Sussex’s contribution to modern culture and to showcase the county’s natural landscape.  It brings together a unique experience of thirty-six memorable places with the creativity that defines the county’s modern, independent spirit. Contemporary art, ancient landscapes and innovative winemaking are all on offer in Sussex to be explored and enjoyed. 

Sussex Modern has just launched a new website helping visitors discover the best of this county. Travellers can use the interactive route planner to curate their perfect itinerary which can be viewed in Google Maps as well as shared with friends and family: https://www.sussexmodern.org.uk/ 

Sussex occupies a unique position in the recent history of British thought, art and literature. It has helped shape our modern world. One hundred years ago writers, artists and designers recognised Sussex and its landscape as a place of inspiration and an escape from the city. It suited their radical ideas, alternative lifestyles and independent spirits. More recently, Sussex has inspired a new generation of creative pioneers. Working with the soil and climate, a modern winemaking industry has grown from the landscape and rapidly built an international reputation. With its high latitude, warm and dry maritime climate, and range of soil types Sussex has the right characteristics and long seasons for grapes to mature to full ripeness.  Widely awarded for their excellence nine thriving wineries now welcome visitors for wine tours and experiences. There are opportunities to see how the wine is made and to enjoy both still and sparkling varieties and some offer excellent overnight accommodation. 

With the creation of the South Downs National Park in 2010 the county has opened up new ways to experience, enjoy and learn about its landscape, nature and history. The high chalk downs, cliffs and pebbled coastline are a distinctive feature of this quintessentially English countryside. Much of the county’s hinterland is part of the High Weald, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Its own distinctive landscape of woodlands, rolling hills and hidden pathways was once the site of medieval iron forges and today offers plenty to explore, especially on foot or by bike. 

Together the art, landscape and wine of Sussex make for a fascinating and refreshingly modern experience – one that stimulates the senses and rewards the curious. All just an hour or so from London.