Lewes

Lewes

Type:Town

Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 2DE

Tel: 01273 483448

View of Lewes above Lewes Castle

About

At the heart of rural Sussex lies the beautiful county town of Lewes - a mixture of the unusual and intriguing and so typically Sussex.

Its medieval streets, old English churches and tiny twittens (a Sussex word for alleyway) allow visitors a glimpse into the true essence of bygone Lewes. Although surrounded by chalk cliffs, the townscape is dominated by the remains of a Norman castle and is also home to the handsome townhouse of Anne of Cleves (fourth wife of King Henry Vlll). Lewes also claims host to numerous contemporary art galleries and historic & special interest sites including the once mighty Priory of St. Pancras - a casualty of the dissolution of the monasteries.

Lewes is a market town of small, specialist, independent retailers and on certain days, the subtle aromas wafting from Harvey’s Brewery will attract any visitor to Cliffe High Street. Bookshops, boutiques and antique centres sit alongside individual craft workshops, and the restaurants, cafes, and pubs offer delicious choices all year round with real emphasis on local produce.

Things to do near Lewes

A short drive from Lewes reveals an abundance of tourist attractions making the town of Lewes an attractive base for a short break.

  • Lewes Castle, nearly 1,000 years old, this castle offers fantastic views of the medieval streets below.
  • Plumpton Racecourse is one of the smallest in the country and therefore offers great views across the whole course in its 16 racedays between September and May.
  • Continuing the views theme, Ditchling Beacon is the highest point in East Sussex and the perfect landmark to take in the South Downs area of Lewes.
  • Take a family day out at Drusillas Park, widely known as the best small zoo in Europe, less than 10 miles from Lewes.
  • Take a trip into Eastbourne just 15 miles from Lewes to enjoy time by the sea.
  • Established as a charity over 50 years ago with over 100 members, The Sussex Guild Shop & Gallery are a group of local professional designers and makers of fine, contemporary and traditional craftwork - the shop can be found on the high street.

Find out what's happening this weekend near Lewes in our Sussex events guide or explore the local area in the towns and villages near Lewes using the 'what's nearby' section below.

Book Tickets

TripAdvisor

Map & Directions

Video

  • Visit East Sussex

What's Nearby

  1. Lewes Castle & Museum

    Climb the zig-zag steps of this 1000 year old Norman castle for stunning views of Sussex.…

    0.18 miles away
  2. Anne of Cleves House

    Anne of Cleves House formed part of her divorce settlement from Henry VIII in 1541. This…

    0.35 miles away
  3. The Living Coast By Bike

    One of the best ways to discover the Living Coast a UNESCO World Biosphere is by bike and…

    0.69 miles away
  1. Wellingham Walled Herb Garden

    An 18thC landscaped walled herb garden with many statues and a gazebo. The herbs are…

    2.8 miles away
  2. Firle Place

    A Tudor house with Georgian additions in downland park setting. Important English and…

    4.08 miles away
  3. Stanmer Park

    With its beautiful woodland walks and extensive open lands, Stanmer Park is just as…

    4.82 miles away
  4. Plumpton Racecourse

    Plumpton Racecourse is one of the most successful smaller jump racecourses in the…

    4.86 miles away
  5. One Garden Brighton

    Proudly presented and managed by Plumpton College, One Garden Brighton is a free to enter…

    5 miles away
  6. Ditchling Beacon

    Ditchling Beacon is located 7 miles to the north of Brighton and just south of the…

    5.43 miles away
  7. Saltdean Beach

    Saltdean beach is shingle between rock groynes backed by high chalk cliffs and at low…

    5.44 miles away
  8. Paradise Park

    From plants to play, Paradise Park has something for all generations of the family to…

    5.49 miles away
  9. Brighton Racecourse

    Brighton Racecourse is the fun and friendly seaside racecourse
    overlooking the Brighton…

    6.13 miles away
  10. Stoneywish Nature Reserve

    Fifty acres of ponds and meadows with wildlife walk and large play/picnic area.…

    6.31 miles away
  11. Brighton Marina

    The prefect entertainment haven, Brighton Marina is a self contained destination full of…

    6.41 miles away
  12. GLOBALLS

    Globalls has it’s very own 12-hole indoor golf course, this is a unique games experience.…

    6.42 miles away
  13. GLOBALLS - Cocktail Bar

    An intimate cocktail bar just a stone's throw from the incredible UV mini golf and games…

    6.42 miles away
Previous Next

Related

Lewes Tourist Information Centre, LewesOur friendly staff aim to help you get the most out of your visit to the Lewes area.