Wow. With the arrival of September, autumn is definitely under starter’s orders. There’s a freshness to the air and, suddenly, signs of the changing season seem to be everywhere. Those of you who follow me on social media will know that last weekend I was out walking the 1066 Country Walk across East Sussex. We certainly experienced an abundance of autumn weather: wind, rain and the occasional glorious burst of sunshine.
But what you couldn’t escape noticing were the autumn colours. Not just in the leaves and bracken, but in the extraordinary abundance of berries and fruits hanging from the hedgerows and trees. Blackberries, damsons, wild apples, sloes and even wild hops.
But I digress.
This week’s newsletter is full of the sights, tastes and spirit of autumn.
To start with, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to interview internationally bestselling and award-winning author Kate Mosse about her gorgeous new book, Autumn. It’s one of those books you’ll want to return to again and again, and Kate was an absolute delight to interview. She talked to us about why writing Autumn felt so important, her relationship with Sussex and the landscape, and why the book is, in many ways, a love letter to both Sussex and the season. Do have a read.
We’re staying with the flavours of the season too, with three recipes that I think encapsulate some of the wonderful tastes of autumn: a gloriously indulgent cheese toastie, a traditional Sussex Smokie and apple muffins – perfect for making use of the fruit weighing down our trees at this time of year.
In other news, a new month means a new Town of the Month, and throughout September we’re celebrating all things Shoreham. I headed there recently on a beautifully sunny day for a wander, rediscovering some old favourites and seeking out plenty of things to see and do.
And looking ahead to another project I’m undertaking this autumn, I’ve also been exploring some of the Sussex places associated with Hilaire Belloc. Later this year, I’ll be re-walking his famous journey across Sussex from Robertsbridge to Harting – although with a rather different perspective. More on that very soon.
Finally, don’t forget to have a look at the latest edition of the Sussex Exclusive magazine, and if you’re wondering what to do as September gets underway, our What’s On in September guide is waiting for you too.
That’s it for now. Enjoy the first days of autumn, and I hope to see you out and about.
Lucy
Sussex Exclusive
Ps. Due to popular demand, from next week, we will be sending out the newsletter on Friday morning. So look out for it arriving in your inbox a little earlier.
