Arts and crafts in East Sussex
East Sussex (including Brighton, Eastbourne, Hastings, Hove, Lewes, Rother and Wealden) is in the South East of England. It has a population of around 800,000 and covers approximately 179,000 hectares. Here is a list of nearby or neighbouring counties: Kent, Surrey, West Sussex.
East Sussex is part of the historic county of Sussex and its geography has resulted in waves of invasion and settlement, leaving behind a richness of archaeological remains. Along its southern border with the English channel you will find popular coastal resorts, such as Brighton and Hastings. Among the counties attractions are Charleston Farmhouse, a meeting place for members of the Bloomsbury group, influential early twentieth century writers, philosophers and artists. The house and gardens were also home to Bloomsbury artists Duncan Grant and Vanessa Bell, who along with Quentin Bell painted murals at Berwick Church, that attract thousands of Bloomsbury Pilgrims each year. The site of the Grade 1 listed church also provides an excellent view of the South Downs. Performing arts venues in East Sussex include the Eastbourne Bandstand, the Devonshire Park Theatre in Eastbourne, the Theatre Royal Brighton, Hailsham Pavilion, Theatre Royal Brighton and the Brighton Dome.
The Royal Pavilion was built between the late 18th century and early 19th century and is an iconic building in Brighton, recognised around the world. Brighton Museum and Art Gallery is housed within a building situated in the Royal Pavilion gardens. A range of exhibitions and events are held at the museum and art gallery, which has permanent collections including furniture, pottery, jewellery, fashion, textiles, glass, paintings, prints and sculpture, with exhibits from Britain and around the world and across many periods of history. Hastings Museum and Art Gallery houses collections including natural history, social history, and fine art. It also serves as a venue for a range of events, including temporary exhibitions of arts and crafts created by local artists and designers. Other attractions in East Sussex include Brighton Pier, Rye Heritage Centre, Southover Grange Gardens, Brighton Toy and Model Museum, the ruins of Bodiam Castle and Seven Sisters Country Park.
