The Ugly Barn pottery studio in Ditchling, surrounded by greenery and trees in the South Downs countryside.

The Ugly Barn is a small, well-equipped pottery studio in the heart of Ditchling. It’s a quiet place to work either throwing or hand building, at your own pace, with guidance on hand when you need it. Studio sessions are available for experienced potters, alongside some one-to-one and small group tuition for those starting out or looking to develop their practice.

A collection of ceramic bowls arranged in rows on a wooden surface, showcasing various colors, textures, and finishes.
 

About The Ugly Barn

Marija Bichan came to ceramics through Ralph Levy, who ran The Handmade House in Ditchling and was her teacher, mentor, and an inspiration to many in the local community. When Ralph died in 2019, she set up The Ugly Barn to keep that spirit of making alive.

The original studio sat at the foot of the South Downs near Ditchling Beacon, offering open studio time for potters who wanted to work on their own projects at their own pace, alongside some beginners and improvers classes. The Ugly Barn has since moved to the centre of Ditchling, smaller and more focused than before.

For people who are familiar with clay and need a calm space to work.


Marija Bichan working in The Ugly Barn pottery workshop surrounded by kilns, handmade ceramics, colour swatches, and pottery tools, with views of the garden outside in Ditchling, Sussex.

Find us

The Ugly Barn,

Wharfedale Cottage,

11 The Fieldway,

Ditchling, BN6 8UA

bookings

For more information and to inquire about open studio and classes.

Contact Marija Bichan

theuglybarnditchling@gmail.com