Local Spotlight: Babylon Eco Centre & Heath + Down

This month I'd love to shine a spotlight on a local business that I recently had the pleasure of visiting.

Nestled on the edge of Ashdown Forest, Babylon Eco Centre is much more than a café or garden centre. It's a thoughtfully curated destination built around incredible food, beautiful plants, sustainability and a genuine connection to the natural world. Their plant nursery focuses on wildlife-friendly plants suited to East Sussex, while their restaurant champions seasonal ingredients and local produce wherever possible.

While I was there, I also discovered Heath + Down, an interiors studio and store tucked away on site. Founded on the idea that homes should feel personal rather than perfectly styled, Heath + Down offers interior design, sourcing and a beautifully curated collection of homewares chosen for their character and usefulness.

What I loved most about both businesses was their shared appreciation for creating spaces that encourage people to slow down and enjoy their surroundings. I loved that all the plants sold in the garden centre are grown on site with British climate in mind

If you're looking for somewhere to spend a few hours browsing plants, enjoying lunch, gathering inspiration or simply escaping into the Ashdown Forest for an afternoon, I highly recommend a visit.