With a rich history dating back to Anglo-Saxon times, Lewes is a traditional market town on the banks of the River Ouse. It was the site of a significant battle in 1264, which resulted in Simon de Montfort becoming the "uncrowned King of England”.
Things to do in Lewes
Rising atop a man-made mound in the heart of town is Lewes Castle, which was constructed from locally sourced limestone in the 11th century. Its fortifications were built by supporters of William the Conqueror and it was from here that soldiers departed to fight the Battle of Lewes. Today, the castle houses the Museum of Sussex Archaeology and a model of Lewes and offers magnificent views across the surrounding countryside.
Also owned and operated by the Sussex Archaeological Society is Anne of Cleves House, a timber-framed dwelling that dates back to the 16th century. It displays furnishings and artefacts of significance to the region, including a hammer from Etchingham Forge and exhibits about the Wealden iron industry. Step inside the kitchen to see how it would have appeared under Queen Anne’s ownership.
Once a private green space for the diarist John Evelyn, the gardens of Southover Grange are now open to the public. You can stroll along the leafy walking trails and admire the mulberry tree that is believed to be over 350 years old. Dominating the gardens is a 16th-century manor house with an oak-panelled hall and two ceremony rooms where events regularly take place.
Getting around Lewes
Lewes is around 20 minutes’ drive from Brighton and just under two hours from London. Heathrow Airport is just over an hour away and has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Lewes railway station and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.