People, Purpose & Permanence
At Pruden and Smith, jewellery is never just an object. It carries meaning, memory, and time. That belief shapes every decision we make, from how we design, to how we...
Visiting Us in Ditchling
Written by Pruden and Smith
Ditchling is a village where tradition and elegance meet. With its rich artistic heritage, world-renowned English sparkling wines, and sweeping South Downs landscape, it’s a place that feels both timeless and quietly special.
Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning a longer stay, Ditchling has a way of slowing you down. It’s the kind of place where craft, countryside, and conversation come together, and we’re proud to call it home.
Planning Your Visit
Whether you’re travelling from elsewhere in the UK or visiting from abroad, reaching Ditchling is refreshingly simple.
Gatwick Airport is just 20 minutes away via the main London train line. Take a train to Hassocks, then enjoy a short taxi ride, or a beautiful 20-minute country walk into the village. If you’re driving, our new village car park makes it easier than ever to arrive and explore at your own pace.
Once you’re here, everything is within easy reach, and the village invites you to wander.
Explore Our Gallery & Workshop
At the heart of the village, you’ll find our gallery and workshop, where jewellery is designed and made by hand, just as it has been for generations.
Step inside to discover the pieces we’re known for, and glimpse the heritage and craftsmanship that define our work. If something catches your eye, or you’re feeling inspired, you’re welcome to book time with one of our designers, whether to reimagine an heirloom or begin something entirely new.
Discover the Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft
Immerse yourself in Ditchling’s vibrant creative heritage at the Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft, home to an internationally acclaimed collection celebrating the village’s artistic legacy.
Explore the work of Edward Johnston, creator of the London Underground typeface, alongside Dunstan Pruden, our pioneering goldsmith whose influence still shapes our identity today. The museum offers a year-round programme of exhibitions, making it well worth booking in advance.
Stroll the South Downs
From the village, the South Downs open out in every direction. These rolling chalk hills offer a gentle, expansive escape into nature.
You might start at Ditchling Beacon, one of the highest points in the Downs, or simply walk out from the village itself. This landscape has inspired many, including Rebecca, whose designs often echo the curves, textures, and geology of the surrounding countryside.
You can find local walking routes here: Ditchling Walks
Indulge in World-Class Sparkling Wine
Ditchling and its neighbouring villages are renowned for exceptional English sparkling wine.
Vineyards such as Artelium and Ridgeview offer tours and tastings, giving you a chance to see how these celebrated wines are made, and to savour the distinctive character of the region. It’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon, especially paired with a visit to the village.
Dine in Delightful Surroundings
The village itself is home to a collection of welcoming cafés and pubs, each with its own charm.
Enjoy a traditional roast, a pint of local Harvey’s ale, or a slice of cake with coffee. Whether you’re lingering over lunch or warming up after a walk, Ditchling’s dining spots offer a taste of the village’s warmth and hospitality.
It’s a place to take your time, and to enjoy being exactly where you are.
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