Easter and welcome-to-spring gifts, why not give a little Sussex love with our handpicked gift ideas?
Ride the Downs
*Discount available for Sussex Exclusive readers*
For an unforgettable way to explore the South Downs, an e-bike hire voucher makes a brilliant gift or personal treat. With hire available right at the foot of the Downs, it’s easy to head straight out onto rolling hills for breathtaking viewpoints, without worrying about steep climbs. E-bikes take the effort out of longer routes, making the landscape accessible to all levels of fitness while still keeping the joy of cycling. Whether it’s a gentle potter for a couple of hours or a full day exploring the South Downs Way, this is a flexible, experience-led gift. With 20% off hire, it’s also a great-value way to see Sussex at its best.
Book online at www.ridethedowns.co.uk and use the code: Sussex20 to claim the discount. Offer valid until 30 April.
Makers Barn, Petworth
If you’re looking for a great selection of handmade products made by local artisans, then stop at the Makers Barn just outside Petworth. It’s a beautiful barn, brimming with lovely handmade items made by over 100 talented craftspeople. The barn is open Fridays and Saturdays, 9 am-4 pm. They also regularly host craft workshops that range from coppicing and basketry to pottery and pot making. And if nothing else, get yourself a Sussex trug for a spot of spring gardening.
The Sussex Pig
The humble pig has long been symbolic in Sussex and is often seen in conjunction with the county’s motto ‘We Wunt be Druv’! Back in the 18th and 19th centuries, it was a tradition at a country wedding to drink the health of the bride and groom from a Sussex Pig vessel. The head was removable and stood on its snout as a mug, allowing guests and the bride’s father to drink a Hogshead, a traditional measure. The body sat on its haunches like a jug.
You can still buy a Sussex Pig, and we love these from Rye Pottery. An unusual but very “Sussex” wedding gift, they come in large and small and with pink or black spots.
Art by Julie Ingham
Julie Ingham is a Sussex-based Surface Pattern Designer and Illustrator. The Design by Julie Ingham collection features exclusive prints and products, including the Coastal Range, a stunning assortment of prints offered in both framed and unframed options, as well as tea towels, placemats, coasters, scarves, notebooks, and cards. We think this print drawn looking towards the back of the Dome is absolutely stunning.
Spirit of the Downs
This Wild Stork Gin celebrates the rewilding of the storks at Knepp and the fact that Storrington has been named the city of storks in Europe. It is a handcrafted small-batch spirit, distilled with locally foraged botanicals, and it has notes of fresh juniper, wild herbs, and hints of citrus. The team at Spirit of the Downs are working with the South Downs National Trust, and a donation goes to them for every bottle sold.
Something for Him
Spring style starts at RD1 Clothing, Hastings’ favourite independent menswear destination. This season spotlights the 60th anniversary of Sergio Tacchini, with fresh SS26 arrivals celebrating the brand’s iconic heritage. Expect premium track tops, sharp polos and standout seasonal colourways alongside new drops from Weekend Offender, Fila and Ellesse. Think lightweight jackets, classic terrace styling and effortless spring layering. With sizes up to 4XL and a reputation for personal service, RD1 continues to lead the way in retro, mod and football casual fashion. Visit in-store or shop online to explore the new season collections: https://rd1clothing.co.uk/collections/new-arrivals
MMilk Chocolate Flower Slab
Cocoa Loco’s silky smooth, hand-decorated milk chocolate slabs make a gorgeous gift. Better still, they are Fairtrade certified, organic, palm oil-free and handmade in Sussex. Available from the Cocoa Loco website.
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