Alfriston is the second village to feature in a new Sussex Bylines occasional series for 2024 – photo portraits of Sussex villages by young photographer Ben Muir, many of which not only boast a long and fascinating history but have remained thriving communities up to the present time. Some are well-known tourist destinations, others are hidden gems. We hope that you might be encouraged to explore further for yourself and discover all the fascinating villages that lie down quiet country lanes in our beautiful counties of East and West Sussex.
Ben will be taking photos of his – and your – favourite places over the next few months, as a celebration of the many fascinating villages that exist on both the south and north side of the Sussex Downs. We would love to hear from you if you live in a village that you think we should feature in Sussex Bylines.
Alfriston attracts large numbers of visitors during the summer, and you can immediately see why from Ben’s photos.
Nestled into the Cuckmere Valley at the eastern end of the South Downs, with the long-distance South Downs Way running through it, Alfriston boasts numerous historic buildings, including the Clergy House, the first property to be acquired by the National Trust.
The magnificent St Andrew’s Church, known as the “Cathedral of the South Downs” hosts concerts during the summer months, and for those who enjoy their wine, the Rathfinny Wine Estate on the edge of the village offers visitors the chance to sample prize-winning Sussex sparkling wines.
If your preference is to escape the crowds, then winter is the time to visit. A brisk walk along the footpath bordering the River Cuckmere followed by a drink beside a roaring open fire at the historic Star Inn is the perfect way to spend a winter Sunday.
CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO OUR CROWDFUNDER
HELP US BECOME STRONGER SO THAT WE CAN CONTINUE TO DELIVER POWERFUL CITIZEN JOURNALISM!
