Champs Hill visit Monday 27 April 2026

A group of 19 members and guests enjoyed a wonderful visit to two places of interest near Pulborough, West Sussex, enhanced by exceptionally good weather.

Travelling by coach, the first stop was St Botolph’s Church, Hardham. This church is a Grade 1 listed building and it contains the earliest nearly complete series of wall paintings in England. Dating from the 12th century, they were hidden from view until uncovered in 1866. The simple church building has seen little alteration and also has an ancient bell. We were given an introductory talk covering the history of the building, techniques used in making the paintings and the images and stories depicted. 

After an excellent al fresco lunch at The Labouring Man pub nearby, we travelled the very short distance to Champs Hill - the home of the Bowerman Trust -where the owner Mary Bowerman gave us a short talk. We were then able to preview the Art of the Newlyn School travelling exhibition before it leaves for a two-year national tour. This features 40 of the best paintings from their extensive collection, including those by Stanhope and Elizabeth Forbes, Walter Langley and Dame Laura Knight. We then stepped outside into the sunshine to explore the extensive and beautiful grounds before we headed for home.

If you are interested in visiting the Champs Hill exhibition as an individual, it is open between 16-18 and 23-25 June. You can check their website for further information:  www.thebct.org.uk

Juliet Penfold, Visits Organiser 

Members and friends of the Society once again enjoyed a delicious three-course lunch at the East Avenue Restaurant, Eastleigh College School of Hospitality and Catering. The meal was prepared and served by the students.

Members and friends of the Society once again enjoyed a delicious three-course lunch at the East Avenue Restaurant, Eastleigh College School of Hospitality and Catering. The meal was prepared and served by the students.