Museum of Gardening and South Downs Heritage Centre
Hassocks, West Sussex
Image: Tates of SussexA free museum of gardening history at Tates' South Downs Nurseries in Hassocks, set up by the Budding Foundation and named after Edwin Beard Budding, who invented the lawnmower in 1830. The heritage centre also houses The Cube art gallery, the Sussex Food Hall and a craft studio, so it pairs easily with lunch and a browse.
Highlights
- Free museum of vintage tools and lawnmowers
- The Cube gallery of contemporary art
- Sussex Food Hall stocking local producers
- Restaurant and coffee shop on site
Good to know
- Service dogs are welcome
- Made and Making runs bookable sewing and craft classes in the courtyard studio
Getting there
Museum of Gardening and South Downs Heritage Centre, South Downs Nurseries, Brighton Road, Hassocks, West Sussex, BN6 9LYParking: Parking on flat tarmac or grass close to the main entrance, including disabled bays and coach drop-off.
Get directionsChecked on 15 October 2026 against tatesofsussex.co.uk. Details change, so please confirm with the venue before you travel. How we check
Nearby
Image: RidgeviewRidgeview Wine Estate
One of the pioneers of English sparkling wine, making wine near Ditchling for more than 25 years. Join a tour and tasting, eat at The Rows and Vine restaurant overlooking the vines, or pick up a bottle at the Wine Bar and Shop.
Image: Albourne EstateAlbourne Estate
A family-owned vineyard and winery overlooking the South Downs, about eight miles from Brighton, making still and sparkling wine from its own grapes. In season you can book a vineyard tour with wine and cheese, a guided tasting or a self-guided walk through the vines.
Image: National TrustDitchling Beacon
At 248 metres, Ditchling Beacon is the highest point in East Sussex, with views to the sea in one direction and across the Weald in the other. The South Downs Way runs along the ridge past the remains of an Iron Age hillfort.