Amy Lambert's guide to the local produce of the South Downs

Nestled in the depths of Sussex, the rolling South Downs provide the perfect backdrop for local producers. The untouched land, rolling hills and the chalky coastline is beautiful, nourishing and homely to me. Having grown up in Battle and having recently spent a year in Alfriston, local produce at farmers markets or independent shops feels very comforting to me. Below is a selection of some of my favourite spots dotted throughout the South Downs in Sussex.

Rathfinney Wine Estate wins the most beautiful winery setting award. With panoramic views down towards Cuckmere Haven and rolling hills as far as the eye can see, it makes the perfect spot for a quick tipple. Rathfinny’s award-winning English sparkling wines are well known through Sussex, appearing on pub drinks menus and at wedding celebrations. My personal favourite is the 2019 Classic Cuvee. You can also do guided tours, wine tastings, or have a bite of eat at their lovely restaurant. https://rathfinnyestate.com/

Cadence Cycle Club and Coffee blends incredible coffee (not to mention their dreamy toasties). It is a casual coffee spot for all coffee lovers (it's not only for the lycra clad). Their spots are nestled along the South Downs including Alfriston and Beachy Head. If you are walking or cycling the South Downs Way, be sure to mark these as spots to rest your weary legs and refuel on coffee, cake and toasties. Their own signature coffee blend is punchy and delicious. Their menu is based around cyclists, including the Chris Hoy (thick cut ham and vintage cheddar) and the Naughty Armstrong (pastrami, emmental, sauerkraut, dill pickle & French's mustard). They are committed to good health, sustainability and respect for the world around us. It doesn’t get better than that does it? https://cadencecycle.club/

The Long Man Brewery, is a lovely craft brewery located near Alfriston and based on the same plot of land as Cadence Cycle Club and Coffee. My favourite beer is the Long Blonde, a lovely golden perfect in the summer. The Long Man Best Bitter, is traditional, hearty and the perfect winter warmer. Similar to Rathfinny you can do tours here, which is great way to try out their selection of beers. All the barley used in the process of creating the beer is grown on the farm whilst all the water used is drawn from the aquifer beneath the chalky south downs. Their name derives from the iconic Long Man of Wilmington chalk figure thats etched into the South Downs hills that surround the brewery. https://www.longmanbrewery.com/

Poco is an Italian inspired restaurant and wine bar located in Alfriston. They have a compact menu using only locally sourced ingredients, which travel no more than 18 miles! When entering Poco you will notice they have a wonderful sharing style approach, where you will be sat at a large table with other guests enjoying your meals. The pasta is prepared daily by the chef in the front window - a sight not to be missed. Their homemade vegan cheese is also on the must try list! https://www.poco.wine/

Cuckmere Organics is a natural, organic, skincare and wellness brand based around the concept of beeswax. They are small scale beekeepers who offer raw honey straight from their hives in the South Downs. It is as pure as it can get! Their skincare products are made of concentrated oils and are wonderfully gentle on the skin. https://www.cuckmereorganics.co.uk/

Harveys Brewery is another beer spot to pin on your maps. They are a family run independent brewery located in Lewes. It is one of the oldest breweries dating back to 1790. Their most popular is the Harvey’s Sussex Best Bitter, a cask ale which warms you from the inside out. You can find Harvey's at most of the local pubs in the area and they have quite the following throughout Sussex. At their brewery in Lewes, make sure to purchase one of their take home kegs. There is nothing like pouring your own pint at home! https://www.harveys.org.uk/

Sussex Crisp Company make THE best cheese and onion crisps. They are mega crunchy, made from Sussex Charmer cheddar and Sussex potatoes. Using natural flavours only, these crisps are 10/10 and I can’t promise you won’t finish an entire sharing bag to yourself. You can find them at most deli’s or farmshops in the area. https://sussexcrisps.com/

Flint Owl Bakery is a lovely artisan bakery in Lewes. Using locally sourced, organic ingredients, their sourdough is one to remember. The starter for the Sourdough dates back to 45 years ago! No trip to Flint Owl is complete unless you eat one of their hand baked pastries straight from the oven onto your plate. https://flintowlbakery.com/

Whilst these are just a selection of the South Downs delights, the list of local producers really is never ending. Once you have exhausted the list above and have your backpack crammed with local goodies, I highly recommend walking down to Cuckmere Haven at sunset to feel the sun on your face and hear the waves lapping the shore. It really is magical.