Join us for a very special evening where we are delighted to welcome the award-winning writer and critic Professor Alexandra Harris, author of the beautiful and deeply moving new book The Rising Down: Lives in a Sussex Landscape.

Described by the Guardian as “a work of rare lyrical beauty and profound humanity,” The Rising Down weaves together stories of the people, places, and paintings that have shaped the Sussex landscape across centuries, from Virginia Woolf and the Bloomsbury set to the farmers, poets, and pilgrims, and dreamers who have called this corner of England home.

In the ancient and atmospheric surroundings of St Mary’s Church, Alexandra will talk about her book exploring what it means to belong to a place over time. There will be plenty of opportunity for questions, followed by a glass of wine and a chance to browse (and buy) signed copies of The Rising Down. All proceeds from the evening will go directly to the Friends of St Mary’s Church Pulborough to help preserve and care for our magnificent Grade I listed parish church for future generations.

Tickets £25 (includes wine/soft drink) – booking essential.
Please reserve your place  and come for an evening of luminous prose, Sussex history, and quiet inspiration, all in aid of the church we love.

We look forward to seeing you there!

The time: 7pm Drinks on arrival. 7.30pm Start of Talk on 7 February 2026.

The place: St Mary's Church, Pulborough