Historic Lewes sits at the very heart of Sussex and its history. The town itself has an impressive Norman castle and priory ruins and was the site of the Battle of Lewes in 1264. It also has narrow, cobbled streets, dozens of historic buildings, a weekly market and a riverside walk. Surrounded by the South Downs and not far from the coast, Lewes District is the place to head for stunning views, a vibrant cultural scene and some great eateries.
Friday afternoon arrival
Start your weekend early in the village of Ditchling. It’s delightfully pretty, full of interesting and historic buildings and has its own Museum of Art and Craft. Ditchling’s artistic heritage includes The Guild of St Joseph and St Dominic and Sir Frank Brangwyn who lived and worked in the village at the turn of the 20th century. Some of the artists are buried in the churchyard next to the museum.
Another compelling reason to visit Ditchling is its vineyards. There are quite a few in the area, including Ridgeview where you can enjoy a tour and tasting experience before you head into Lewes for the night for dinner.
Saturday morning
Saturday morning is all about exploring Lewes town. A visit to Lewes Castle is a must and then you can explore the cobbled streets that weave around the town, disappear into the 15th century book shop and wander round the ruins of the Medieval priory. Then head to the farmer’s market (the first and third Saturday of the month) and allow time for a quick rummage in the fantastic flea market.
Saturday afternoon
On Saturday afternoon, you’ve got choices, depending on what you’d like to do. For the active, you may want to climb Mount Caburn that overlooks the town and gives incredible views of the river Ouse and out towards the sea. Or you might want to go to one of the world-famous concerts at Glyndebourne (limited dates in December) or head to Sheffield Park. Or perhaps you want to head to a little further south to Charleston Farmhouse at Firle, which was once home to the iconic Bloomsbury Set.
Saturday evening
Head back into Lewes for dinner at Dill (in Cliffe High Street) which gets a mention in the Michelin Guide. Or why not spoil yourself with a trip aboard the iconic Bluebell Railway’s Golden Arrow train?
Sunday morning
Sunday morning means time for a little fresh air. If you love golf, what about a round of golf at Seaford Golf Club? The course sits on the edge of the South Downs National Park with glorious views towards the Sussex coast in one direction and the expansive Rathfinny vineyards in the other. If golf is not for you, head to the abandoned village of Tide Mills in between Newhaven and Seaford and enjoy a walk on the beach.
Sunday afternoon
There’s just time for a quick stop back in Lewes at the taproom at Beak Brewery or sample some Harvey’s beer at a local pub.
A few facts
- In May every year, the town of Lewes marks the Battle of Lewes with a Medieval festival that takes over the town.
- The town is perhaps most famous for its bonfire celebrations which are the biggest in the UK.
- The town is twinned with Blois in France.
- Lewes was the site of an avalanche in 1836 – the deadliest in the UK in which 8 people died.
Places to stay in the Lewes District
- The White Hart, Lewes
- The Jolly Sportsman at East Chiltington
- The Ram Inn at Firle
Travel
The easiest way to travel around Mid Sussex is by car. However there are trains from London to Lewes, Seaford and Hassocks. Travel time is just over an hour.
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