Experience our Culture

Culture in Wealden has grown out of its landscape, history and communities.

It’s shaped by woodland and clay, by market towns and villages, and by people who continue to make, create and celebrate here today. Whether you’re interested in art and literature, food and drink, festivals or folklore, there are plenty of ways to explore Wealden’s cultural life.

Arts, Crafts and Making

Wealden has a long tradition of making things well. From the iron industry that once defined the area, to the Wealden clay still used by makers today, the landscape has long influenced what is created here.

The district is also home to nationally recognised heritage crafts, including the iconic Sussex Trug, which remains closely associated with the Weald. Alongside these traditions, you’ll find contemporary artists and craftspeople working across a range of disciplines, with studios, workshops and galleries open to visitors throughout the year.

Festivals and Celebrations

Wealden hosts a wide range of festivals and events celebrating art, music and culture. Taking place across our towns, villages and countryside, they bring together local communities, performers and visitors in welcoming spaces. From small-scale events to larger festivals, they offer a chance to experience the area’s creative energy. Visit our events page for the latest happenings in Wealden.

Art and Literature

The Wealden landscape has inspired artists and writers for generations. You can visit the former home of photographer Lee Miller at Farleys House and Gallery, explore Sherlock Holmes connections in Crowborough, or discover Ashdown Forest, made famous as the home of Winnie-the-Pooh.

These characters and stories are still very much part of Wealden today; connecting our cultural history with the landscapes that inspired it.

Museums and Galleries

Across the district, you’ll find a mix of well-known attractions and lesser-known cultural hidden gems. Independent museums, historic houses, windmills and art galleries are dotted throughout Wealden, often in unexpected locations. Many are small, characterful and run by passionate local teams, making them well worth seeking out.

Food, Drink and Local Culture

Local food and drink play an important role in Wealden’s cultural life. Our Wealden Wine Trail links the area's award-winning vineyards and Sussex wines, while our breweries and gin distilleries produce a strong independent drinks scene.

Farmers’ markets and art and craft markets, held in historic market towns, are a great way to discover local produce, meet makers and experience everyday life in Wealden.

Folklore and Traditions

Wealden’s culture is also shaped by stories and traditions passed down over time. From the Long Man of Wilmington to the traditional Tudor Wassail at Michelham Priory, and the Pevensey Mint House with its links to Sussex folklore, these places and events add another layer to our history and identity.

Creative Wealden

Creative Wealden is our Instagram channel celebrating the people and organisations shaping Wealden’s creative scene today. It brings together artists, makers, designers, creatives and creative organisations from across the district, helping them discover each other, share news and collaborate.

As a growing, inclusive network for the creative sector in Wealden, it’s a useful place to find local creative talent, explore potential opportunities and keep up to date with what’s happening. Follow Creative Wealden to connect with the area’s creative community.