28 May A Weekend of Words and Wonder
A Weekend of Words and Wonder: Maggie’s Visit to the 2025 Charleston Festival, Near Lewes, Sussex
Last weekend, I traded my mood boards for manuscripts and headed to the Charleston Festival in the heart of the Sussex countryside. Nestled in the South Downs near Firle, Charleston House – once the bohemian home of Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant -offered the perfect blend of literary inspiration and visual delight.
The festival, running from 14 to 26 May 2025, was a vibrant celebration of literature, art, design, and politics, featuring a packed programme designed to inspire inspired thought and lively debate.
Beyond the stimulating talks, the gardens at Charleston were a feast for the senses. Originally designed by Roger Fry and lovingly cultivated by Bell and Grant, the walled garden is a dream: gravel paths winding through beds bursting with vibrant blooms, interspersed with whimsical sculptures and Mediterranean-inspired touches. It’s easy to see how this space served as the perfect sanctuary for its artistic residents.
The surrounding English countryside added to the charm, with rolling green hills and the gentle hum of nature providing a serene backdrop to the weekend’s events. It was a reminder of the profound connection between garden and home – a principle that resonates deeply for me when I design.
I left feeling that Charleston is more than a historic house; it’s a testament to the power of art, community, and the beauty of the English landscape.
I’d urge you to go! Try and book your visit well in advance. Tickets sell very fast!
