Image: Alun Callendar
For someone who’s never been to East Sussex before: what’s the very first place you’d take them – and why that spot, specifically?
I would take them straight to Friends Clump in the Ashdown Forest at first light. There is something wonderfully untamed and restorative about it, the great open skies, the silver birch trees, the smell of pine and damp earth underfoot. It feels ancient and quietly magical. I think you understand East Sussex best when you’re outside in nature, wrapped in all that space and silence. We’d walk with Bramble through the heathland and then stop somewhere mossy for a sip of hot coffee and a peaceful moment!
If you only had one day in East Sussex and could only show someone three places, where would you take them – morning, afternoon and evening?
Morning would absolutely begin with a walk on Ashdown Forest followed by breakfast from Plaw Hatch Farm: fresh bread, good butter, organic eggs, everything wonderfully simple and nourishing.
In the afternoon, I’d take them wandering through Lewes because it has such character, independent shops, beautiful old buildings, antiques tucked into corners, and an unmistakably creative spirit.
For the evening, I’d head to the coast at Cuckmere Haven on the coast. There is nothing lovelier than that soft evening light over the sea grasses and pebbles, especially when the day quietens and everything feels beautifully still.
Complete this sentence: ‘If you only see one thing in East Sussex, make it…’
Charleston, the farmhouse that the Bloomsbury group lived in and decorated. It is an enormously inspiring home and has a wonderful gallery attached.
What’s your favourite place in East Sussex that most visitors don’t know about – but absolutely should?
Isca Restaurant at Borde Hill. People don’t know about it yet as it has only very recently opened, but it is fabulous and filled with MM wallpaper and cushions!
Which three shops in East Sussex do you always find an excuse to visit?
Plaw Hatch Farm Shop is irresistible for beautiful organic food and flowers. Margot in Lewes is the most charming little shop where I have bought fine glassware and ceramic lemons! I love everything in there. I also adore the small antique shops in Lewes where you can uncover old textiles, pottery and forgotten treasures.
Where do you go for a really good lunch and what do you order?
Plateau in Brighton; absolutely wonderful modern European seasonal menu and really delicious wine and cocktails, always fun at lunch time! And dog friendly too, Bramble loves a trip to the seaside!
You’re splashing out on a hotel: where do you go?
Gravetye Manor feels deeply special. It has that perfect combination of understated luxury and connection to nature. The gardens are extraordinary and everything feels calm, elegant and beautifully considered without ever trying too hard. We recently decorated the Walnut Room, so anyone wanting a true MM experience should go and stay here!
And for a pampering/wellness fix?
Honestly, my greatest wellness fix is a long walk outdoors followed by a hot bath and an early night. I have taken several years to complete the South Downs Way with girlfriends which was great fun and a real achievement. If I were to go to a spa, I do love places that focus on simplicity and restoration rather than anything overly polished or performative.
What about for a great coffee/tea fix?
The BEST coffee is at the horsebox at Plawhatch farm, brewed using Monmouth coffee its strong and deep and served with the most nutritious delicious homemade cakes.
Who is your favourite local artist or maker – and where can people find their work?
East Sussex is full of extraordinary makers, ceramicists, weavers, painters, printmakers. I’m always drawn to people working slowly and thoughtfully with natural materials. I am a big fan of two artists in my area. Lottie Cole, who interprets interiors and creates the most dreamy large scale room scenes and Andrew Gifford who does exquisite paintings of and in nature. I am a proud owner of a paintings from both artists!
Favourite local florist?
There is a poly tunnel at Plawhatch Farm that grows Pick Your Own Sweet Peas, going to pick these is a highlight of my year, the smell is absolutely intoxicating!
Where do you go when you’re celebrating?
My last party was at my new print studio Ford Manor Estate Workshop, so a very personal affair. The year before that we celebrated at The Hop Yard, a local restaurant / bar / yoga studio! It is super cool, Fat Boy Slim even performs here – very handy as we can stumble back up the track to our house from here.
And for a proper culture fix?
Glyndebourne is extraordinary, not simply for the performances, but for the whole atmosphere of it. There’s something wonderfully English and romantic about dressing up, picnicking on the lawns and spending an evening immersed in music and beauty.
Where do you go when you need a big view?
The South Downs or the open stretches of Ashdown Forest. I always find clarity in wide landscapes. Big skies seem to make everything else fall back into proportion.
Finish this sentence: ‘If you really want to experience East Sussex properly, you should ___.’
…slow down completely, walk everywhere you can, buy from small local makers and spend as much time outdoors as possible.
Who is your ultimate local hero and why?
Anyone quietly preserving traditional crafts, farming organically, growing food responsibly or keeping independent businesses alive. Those people shape the soul of a place far more than they probably realise. I think there is something deeply heroic about choosing care, slowness and authenticity in the modern world. If I had to choose one person it might be Vanessa Bell – sadly she is no longer alive, but she has been such a massive influence on my pattern making and decoration decisions.
FAQs: Molly Mahon
What is Molly Mahon best known for?
Molly Mahon is a British textile designer and block printer, renowned for her colourful hand-block-printed fabrics, wallpapers, home accessories and lifestyle collections. Her work celebrates traditional Indian printing techniques and an enduring love of pattern.
Where is Molly Mahon based?
Molly Mahon lives and works in East Sussex, where the surrounding countryside, gardens and creative community provide constant inspiration for her collections.
What makes East Sussex such a special destination?
East Sussex combines dramatic landscapes with a rich artistic heritage. Visitors can explore the rolling South Downs, Ashdown Forest, the chalk cliffs of the coast, historic market towns such as Lewes, world-class cultural destinations including Charleston and Glyndebourne, alongside an exceptional network of independent shops, restaurants and makers.
When is the best time to visit East Sussex?
Spring through early autumn is particularly beautiful, when gardens are at their peak, walking routes are at their best and festivals, outdoor dining and coastal visits are in full swing. That said, the county's woodlands, villages and cosy pubs make it an appealing year-round escape.
Is East Sussex good for food lovers?
Absolutely. From organic farm shops and artisan bakeries to destination restaurants and vineyard lunches, East Sussex has become one of the country's most exciting food regions, with a strong emphasis on seasonal, locally produced ingredients.
What should first-time visitors prioritise?
Follow Molly's advice: spend time outdoors. Walk Ashdown Forest or the South Downs, browse the independent shops of Lewes, visit Charleston for a dose of creative inspiration and finish the day watching the light fade over Cuckmere Haven.
Who would enjoy this East Sussex itinerary?
Anyone who prefers slow travel to ticking off landmarks. It's ideal for lovers of interiors, gardens, antiques, independent shopping, excellent food, beautiful walks and discovering the people and places that give a region its distinctive character.
