Lewes East Sussex is renowned as a picturesque and historic market town, surrounded by the stunning countryside, as it is enveloped by the South Downs National Park, with glimmers of the glowing white cliffs in the east.
There is a thriving food and art scene in Lewes, and it is a must-see place when visiting Sussex or exploring more of the county.
Lewes is known for its rich heritage and culture, with Lewes bonfire night each 5th of November being celebrated on a grand scale.
Where is Lewes East Sussex?
Lewes is situated on the South East Coast of England, nestled largely within the South Downs National Park. Lewes is approximately 20-minute drive from Brighton.
Lewes District encompasses Lewes Town, Newhaven, Telscombe, Peacehaven and Seaford, alongside many other smaller villages and rural areas.
Why Visit Lewes?
Lewes is a bucolic haven on the South Downs National Park, a melting pot of historic charm, rolling countryside, quaint cobbled streets and a thriving independent spirit.
There are direct trains to Lewes from London, Eastbourne and Brighton. Lewes is easily discoverable by foot, making it the perfect day or weekend trip from busy city life.
The activities are varied here, whether you want an active trip out hiking on the surrounding South Downs to take in all the scenery, or a peaceful potter through independent shops and nestle down in a cosy pub afterwards.
It is a quintessential British town that has maintained its charm and independent flair. It was even voted Britain’s prettiest town in 2025.
Although there are some steep and cobbled streets, Lewes is a fairly walkable town.
Interesting Facts About Lewes
Equal Pay for Men’s and Women’s Football
Lewes is the first known football club (both in Britain and globally) to introduce equal pay to both the men’s and women’s football teams. They have the same playing budget, same pitch and same training facilities. This parity of pay and forward-thinking is another reason to celebrate Lewes.
Avalanche
The worst avalanche in British history happened in Lewes in 1836, with some of the worst weather recorded during winter. Cliffe Hill had gathered a deadly amount of snow, which began to overhang the cottages on Boulder Row below.
Although a warning was given, the residents had nowhere to vacate in such bad weather. On the 27th December 1836, the huge avalanche of snow enveloped the cottages below, trapping 15 people. Seven of the 15 people were rescued, sadly 8 perished.
The Snowdrop Inn was opened in commemoration of the disaster.
Thomas Paine
Radical thinker and writer of his time, Thomas Paine, was a former resident in the Bull House in Lewes. Paine is notable for his intellectual writings in the late 18th century.
He is known as a key figure in the American and French Revolution. His work had focused on human rights, democracy and freedom of thought.
Things To Do in Lewes
Lewes Castle and Barbican House Museum
Lewes Castle is a Norman castle built following the famous Battle of Hastings. A climb to the top of The Keep will offer you panoramic views of the stunning Sussex countryside, rolling South Downs and glowing white cliffs to the East.
The Castle is one of our favourite things to do in Lewes, and it is located in the heart of the town.
The museum offers a key insight into the town’s history with many interesting prehistoric and medieval artefacts. The price of the castle and museum are combined together, I paid £10 for myself.
The grounds and gardens of Lewes Castle are perfect for a quaint wander or picnic.
If visiting with kids, keep your eyes peeled for the old canon, which is always a novelty and interesting talk point. One of the towers also offers an old style “brick laying” activity that children can enjoy.
Address: 169 High St, Lewes East Sussex BN7 1YE
Lewes Flea Market
A trip to Lewes Flea Market is obligatory. Stocking a range of curiosities, this is a fascinating piece of the town. Located in an old Methodist, red brick church, be prepared to get lost in an eclectic mix of interesting things.
Thriving since 1992, Lewes Flea Market houses a variety of goods, from old records, vintage jumpers, furniture, oddities, jewellery and everything you can think of under one roof.
Address: 14a Market Street, Lewes, BN7 2NB
Southover Grange Gardens
Located in the centre of Lewes Town, Southover Grange Gardens are a tranquil place to enjoy and explore. They are very well maintained and especially pretty when the flowers come to bloom.
Southover Grange Gardens is a great option if you are looking for free things to do in Lewes.
Address: Southover Road, Lewes East Sussex, BN7 1TP
Lewes Priory
Lewes Priory is a part-demolished medieval site enveloped by the South Downs. This site is a whimsical peep into monastery life dating back to the 11th Century.
There is a herb garden on site, mimicking what life was once like in a monastic setting. There are guides available to help you identify the plants.
Address: Cockshut Road, Southover, Lewes East Sussex BN7 1HP
Anne of Cleves House
Travel back in time to the Tudor era, with this stunning timber framed house encompassing all that was life back then.
This home was given to Anne of Cleves following her brief marriage to Henry VIII as a part of their divorce settlement. The interiors are preserved immaculately with Tudor kitchen, parlour and regal bedroom complete with a four poster bed.
There are a selection of Tudor style costumes to try out, if that is your thing! There are various events running throughout the year.
Address: 52 Southover High Street, Lewes East Sussex, BN7 1JA
Chalk Gallery
The Chalk Gallery is a notable, contemporary art gallery in Lewes, co-ordinated by a group of highly talented local artists. It is a lovely, welcoming gallery and well worth a visit, with the art work of high standard.
There is a range of artwork to browse, from abstract paintings, crafts and prints. This gallery is only a stone’s throw from the High Street in Lewes Town.
Address: 4 North Street, Lewes East Sussex, BN7 2PA
Historic High Street
Lewes High Street has maintained its historic charm. Whilst many British high streets are sadly dissipating, Lewes’ remains the heartbeat of the town. There are many tempting independent eateries to choose from. I couldn’t resist a pistachio croissant from the Cornish bakery in the town centre.
Do visit Keele Street to get a snippet of the famous cobbled streets. This street is quite steep though as an FYI for those who need it!
Depot
Lewes Depot is an independently run cinema providing an eclectic range of mainstream movies, art house, independent films, world cinema, documentaries, classic film and screenings of key artistic events.
The Depot is a real community cultural hub with it’s interesting and bespoke offerings.
The restaurant on-site has some delicious choices also. Depot is a family friendly venue, offering baby friendly screenings and changing facilities on-site.
Address: Depot, Pinwell Road, Lewes East Sussex BN7 2JS
Weekly Food Market
Every Friday Lewes comes alive with its fresh produce market. Lewes Food Market offers a range of local and seasonal fresh produce.
There is something for everyone at Lewes Food Market, with delicious galletes, fruit & vegetables, local honey, freshly made samosas, sourdough breads, game pies, vegan foods, cheese and sustainably grown flowers.
Address: Lewes Food Market, C/O Lewes Climate Hub, Lewes House, 32 High Street, Lewes East Sussex, BN7 2LX
River Ouse
The winding River Ouse makes for the perfect place for relaxed strolls or a riverside picnic. There is even the option to take a river cruise with Ouse Cruises.
The famous Ouse Valley Walk is an option for a more active outdoor activity.
Lewes Railway Land Nature Reserve
This wild oasis in an urban haven is a must-see in Lewes, and perfect for that nature kick. Just a stone’s throw from the town centre and nestled aside the meandering Ouse Valley River, there is a variety of wetland habitats here.
Address: Linklater Pavilion, Railway Lane, Lewes East Sussex, BN7 2FG
Pells Pool
Pells Pool is the perfect spot for a refreshing dip. Pells pool is the oldest freshwater public pool in the UK.
It is open from May-November and there is a kiosk on site for your refreshment needs. The pool is cold at the start of the season but gradually heats up as the summer progresses.
Address: Pells Pool, Brook St, Lewes East Sussex, BN7 2BA
Charleston
Charleston House is famed, notable as being the historic retreat for the famous minds of the Bloomsbury Group. More recently, a newer space has opened in the heart of Lewes.
Charleston offers an exciting, year-round lineup of exhibitions, events, and festivals, complemented by must-see showcases in the stunningly designed galleries in both Lewes and Firle.
Addresses: Charleston, Firle, East Sussex, BN8 6LL OR Charleston in Lewes, Southover Road, Lewes, BN7 1FB
Monks House
Visit Leonard and Virginia Woolf’s 17th-Century country writers retreat. Under the care of the National Trust, the stunning house is filled with Bloomsbury treasures.
The gardens offer some incredible views of the South Downs and the writing lodge offers an insight into the tranquil views Virginia Woolf had while writing her famous works.
Monks House is open for viewing from April and booking is essential.
Address: Rodmell, Lewes East Sussex, BN7 3HF
Glyndbourne Opera House
The stunning Glyndbourne Opera House is a world leading opera house, nestled in the heart of the Sussex Countryside. The renowned summer festival at Glyndbourne runs from May to August annually.
There are events throughout the year. Visitors can indulge in a black tie dress code if they fancy (although this is not mandatory) and there are a number of thrilling performances to to choose from, in the comfort of Glyndbourne’s world-class auditorium.
The gardens are beautiful to explore and picnics are encouraged, whilst there is the option to dine in the restaurant additionally.
Address: Glyndebourne Lewes East Sussex, BN8 5UU
Harveys Brewery
Harvey’s Family run brewery is the oldest independent brewery in Sussex, dating back to 1820. Brewing a range of award-winning beers and spirits, brewery tours are available on selected dates from April to October.
Address: 6 Cliffe High Street, Lewes East Sussex, BN7 2AH
Butterfly Farm
The Ditchling Butterfly Farm is a real hidden gem in the Lewes District. With a small entry fee, it is a real enchanting experience to be surrounded by fluttering, mesmerising, brightly coloured butterflies.
This is a great thing to do in Lewes with kids. My little girl was fascinated by the beautiful insects. There is a charming farm shop and tea room on site. In the summer, there is a miniature railway running on-site, alongside bug-themed activities.
Address: Middleton Common Farm, Middleton Common Lane, Ditchling Common, Lewes East Sussex, England BN6 8SF
Bonfire Night
Lewes is renowned for its outstanding Bonfire Night each 5th of November (unless it falls on a Sunday, in which case it will take place on the 4th of November). It is the biggest bonfire night celebration in the UK and Lewes is known as “Bonfire Capital of the World”.
The torch lit procession makes its way through the town, finishing with several bonfire sites and fireworks. Visitors are advised not to travel to Lewes on the day, with the surrounding roads being shut and trains stopping at 3 pm.
However, I have considered booking a room in a local hotel one year just to witness the wonderful tradition.
Lovebrook
Lovebrook is just outside of Lewes, it is a for-benefit organisation running a whole range of projects, from regenerative farming, wellbeing days, therapeutic community, yoga, camping and a wild sauna.
Address: Lovebrook, The Street, Kingston near Lewes, BN73NT
Where To Eat in Lewes East Sussex
Best Brunch and Cafes
Cafe du Jardin
Cafe du Jardin is a quaint, friendly cafe and bistro with a hidden courtyard. Serving delicious French cuisine. Enjoy a delicious Croque Monsieur and coffee of choice in this hidden courtyard cafe. There is also the option to enjoy a nice drink in the cosy wine cellar.
Address: 15 Malling Street, Lewes East Sussex, BN7 2RA
Flint Owl Bakery
Flint Owl Bakery is a craft bakery and shop, baking the most delicious, fresh loaves. Offering a great selection of loose leaf teas, coffees, brunch and lunch, this is a great place to stop for food.
Address: 209 High St, Lewes East Sussex, BN7 2DL
Ground Lewes
Ground Lewes is a wonderful indie coffee shop offering a variety of caffeinated brews. There are some lovely fresh cakes, pastries and bakes to choose from. Ground is a lovely, welcoming cafe and only a few minutes walk from Southover Grange Gardens.
Address: 18 Lansdown Place, Lewes East Sussex BN7 2JT
Best Cosy Pubs
The Lewes Arm
The Lewes Arm is an institution in Lewes, and a quintessential cosy pub at that. Serving delicious food and drink, this pub is home to the world pea throwing championship.
Address: The Lewes Arms, 1 Mount Place, Lewes, BN7 1YH
The Snowdrop Inn
The Snowdrop Inn is a lovely, cosy pub in the heart of Lewes. Offering a range of delicious, home-cooked foods and a variety of cask ales. There are two beer gardens which are popular in the summer, while the upstairs offers a more warming environment in the colder months.
This is a family and dog-friendly pub, making it the perfect stop off after your dog walk.
Address: Snowdrop Inn, The 119 South Street, Lewes East Sussex, BN7 2BU
Dinner and Fine Dining
Fork
The Fork in Lewes serves modern British cuisine, with the menu rotating like the seasons. The Fork champions local farmers and artisan producers. All meat, veg, cheese and fruit are sourced from local farms, whilst the fish is fresh off the boat in Newhaven.
The dishes are simply outstanding, this is one for your bucketlist!
Address: Fork Lewes, 14 Station Street, Lewes East Sussex, BN7 2DA
Dill
This delightful bistro offers inventive and unique dishes and small plates. With a wide range of influences on the dishes, this is a cosy and quirky establishment.
Address: 2 South Street, Lewes, BN7 2BP
Best for Shopping in Lewes
Pastorale Antiques Warehouse
Pastorale Antiques Warehouse is a unique and eclectic antiques dealer, offering antiques dating back to the 16th Century to mid-century.
Be sure to check out the cute Cafe du Jardin on site, serving delicious homemade lunches, hot drinks and cakes.
Address: 15 Malling Street, Lewes East Sussex, BN7 2RA
Radical Living
Radical Living is a beautiful, indie shop offering a range of hand crafted and ethical goods from local craftspeople. This retro-inspired shop hosts regular creative workshops and meet the makers events.
This shop is a delight to browse and you will be hard pressed to leave empty handed. There is a range of gorgeous homeware, clothing and beauty products.
Address: The Needlemakers, West Street, Lewes, BN7 2NZ
15th Century Bookshop
Olden Young’s Bookshop is housed in a beautiful 15th Century beamed building, where the rare and collectible books are stacked in synchronicity of the whimsical building itself.
There are 1000’s of books to choose from and they specialise in children’s and illustrated books. This is a bookworm’s haven and a charming place to visit in Lewes.
Address: 99-100 High Street, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 1XH
Wickle
Wickle is a mini department store offering a variety of ethically sourced and quirky goods. There is something for everyone here and a great place to stop off if Christmas shopping, where you would almost get it all done in one go!
This shop has been thoughtfully curated and a great addition to the retail offerings in Lewes.
Address: 24 High St, Lewes BN7 2LU
Freight HHG
Freight HHG offer a range of goods made in the UK, from beautiful household goods to sustainable clothing.
Address: 196 High Street, Lewes East Sussex BN7 2NS
Is Lewes worth visiting? I am giving this question a resounding yes. It has the perfect blend of quintessential English historic town with a vibrant, contemporary food and art scene.
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