Charleston, West Firle

Anyone who grew up in a family of "artists" in an old, venerable house and has already had enough of old furniture and creaking floorboards should not go here. Anyone who is interested in a reasonably important family of artists and wants to get to know their roots and is willing to pay 20 pounds for it should take a look. I found the prices at the museum restaurant a bit outrageous. I paid €18 for two 0.3 liter bottles of beer and a 0.2 liter bottle of water.

Charleston is a truly magical place. The tour of the house was excellent with knowledgable and friendly guides. You need do need to be on time as they have a very tight schedule. There’s a lovely cafe and shop and stunning gardens.

If you have an interest in The Bloomsbury Group or simply the work of artists around the early 1900,s then this is the place to visit. Charleston House is a truly interesting and delightful place. Currently the set up(as of October 2021) is that you book a time slot and volunteers are placed in each room of the house and give you a brilliant insight into the comings and goings of the Bloomsbury Group occupants. The house is spacious but not huge so naturally visitor numbers need managing. There is a walled garden, not massive but lovely never the less. Cost was £20 pounds p.p. but that did include entrance to an art exhibition being held there. Car parking is free. Approach to the house is good and not muddy. I didn't feel you needed wellies or boots. There is a very good cafe there serving light lunches and cakes, teas, coffee and drinks. Apparently they also run workshops as well. I also read that they are only supported by entrance fees , cafe monies and volunteer groups. In my opinion these smaller places of interest are real jewels of our county. Some "taster" photos shared. P.S. Small note but the sign for Charleston House sited on the A 27 is mainly obscured by trees and seems to be at an odd angle. We drove straight past it initially . Post code address for sat nav is pretty good. Once off the A27 signage was obvious. Web site said to watch out for side ditches upon approach but these seem to have been filled in now.

Nestled against beautiful Downland, the original house, which has been styled back to 1930s/40s retains it's simplicity while the outbuildings have been pleasantly and effectively developed with an exquisite gallery hosting temporary exhibitions of note, and a cafe. There are also picnic tables by the ample green moss car park.

This was our second visit and it never fails to impress. You feel totally immersed in the times of the Bloomsbury set - incredibly atmospheric. The Duncan Grant exhibition was the icing on the cake.