West Dean College

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West Dean College is at the heart of the 6,000 acre West Dean Estate nestling in the slopes of the South Downs. The 19th century flint-faced mansion, once home to Edward James, patron of many surrealist artists, is now a centre of study of arts, crafts, writing, horticulture and music. Tutors are practising professionals and the studios well-equipped. The house is surrounded by award winning gardens featuring a restored walled kitchen garden with Victorian glasshouses. There is a magnificently planted 300ft Edwardian pergola and a 2 mile circular walk through St Roche’s Arboretum which offers breathtaking views of the downs. The Gardens Visitor Centre has a licensed restaurant that serves good, home cooked, locally sourced food, and a gift shop with an exciting variety of gifts. West Dean’s nearby Sussex Barn Gallery exhibits some of the best and most innovative new work in contempory crafts and the applied arts. Welcoming and well stocked, the ‘Stewards Bar’ can be found at the heart of the main building. A selection of delicious meals is served in the Dining Room and, on sunny days and warm evenings, the Courtyard, using fresh produce much of which is grown on the estate. Many of the comfortably furnished bedrooms feature antique furniture, private bathrooms and views across the gardens and picturesque downland countryside. Neighboring the Goodwood estate, the peace and tranquility of the surroundings at West Dean alongside the life of a vibrant arts college, creates a stimulating and relaxing environment for visitors.

A variety of short courses held throughout the year. MA and postgraduate diplomas in Tapestry and Textile Art.