Rodmell is a small, quiet and charming village nestling in some of the finest scenery of the South Downs. It lies in the lower valley of the Ouse some four miles south of Lewes, the County Town of East Sussex, and a similar distance north of the port of Newhaven, home of the Dieppe ferry. There has been a village here since at least the time of William the Conqueror, and our little church, dedicated to St. Peter, dates back to Saxon times.
The name might be derived from “The Mill on the Road”, or from the red mould that gives a warm colouring to the surrounding fields of this rich farming country. Nowadays far fewer of our two hundred or so households are involved in farming, and sadly – here as elsewhere – many traditional countryside crafts are dying out, but we remain a diverse community with a strong sense of the importance of our village life.
Ours is a village of great character with many lovely old buildings. Most people outside of the area probably know Rodmell as the country home of Virginia and Leonard Woolf, scions of the Bloomsbury Group, whose home, Monk’s House, enjoys spectacular views and is now a National Trust property. For walkers Rodmell, with its excellent pub, is a popular watering hole on the South Downs Way. Whatever your motivation, Rodmell will not disappoint.
Around Rodmell
Take a tour of the village, old and new, find out about the church, Monks House and the local vineyard, and see some of the books that have been written about Rodmell, and by Rodmell people
Gallery
The recent Village Summer Show has been and gone, and was generally regarded as a great success. See some photos of the various activities.
Latest Village News
The old school buildings are now for sale: what do you think about their future use? Plus other local news flashes, times of church services, messages from our MP and councillors, and similar useful information
Local Businesses
We have many small businesses operating in our community, including B&B accommodation, local artists, cakemakers, decorators and property maintenance, and many more. Tell us if you'd like your business included.
Groups and Activities
Rodmell has plenty of groups dedicated to all sorts of things from children's activities to sports and horticulture. Find out more here.
Rodmell Parish Council
Rodmell has a new Council and a new Parish Clerk. Read parish documents and hear the latest news on issues that affect the life of the village.
