Historic Lewes

Lewes District is a special part of the South East of England, with so many wonderful things to see and do.  Surrounded by the South Downs National Park, close to miles of unspoilt coastline, these towns and villages within the district are full of history and culture. If you are a foodie, a family, an outdoors adventurer or a culture vulture, you’ll love what Lewes has to offer.

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Harvey's Brewery is the oldest independent brewery in Sussex and you'll find a selection of Harvey's branded beers throughout pubs in Eastbourne, Lewes and the surrounding areas.

The Brewery tour is a sought after experience, so book early to avoid missing out!

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Lewes Priory was founded by William de Warenne and his wife Gunrada between 1078 and 1082 on the site of a Saxon church dedicated, like the Priory, to St Pancras. The site is fully open as Priory Park. You can find the Priory along Southover High Street, not far from the Anne of Cleves House.

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Grange gardens were once the private garden of the grange built in 1542 by William Newton and briefly the home of John Evelyn the diarist. The gardens are a little piece of heaven on earth right in the centre of Lewes town, a lovely peaceful thing to do! The gardens also play host to a number of events throughout the year.

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Depot is an award-winning independent 3-screen cinema and café-restaurant. It is located adjacent to the railway station in the centre of Lewes, East Sussex, within the South Downs National Park. Check out their website to see what films are on, or more information about eating at The Depot.

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High above the medieval streets stands Lewes Castle, begun soon after 1066 by William de Warenne as his stronghold in Sussex and added to over the next 300 years, culminating in the magnificent Barbican. Steep climbs to the top of this and the adjacent keep are rewarded with spectacular views.

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Celebrate local Sussex produced gin, sparkling wine and soft drinks at this end-of-summer event in a beautiful walled garden in the heart of Lewes. Ticket price includes free tasters and laid back live music programmed by Union Music Store. Meet and buy direct from the producer.

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Every year, Artwave provides a platform for local artists from Lewes, Seaford, Newhaven and surrounding villages to showcase their work in over 150 venues. Exhibitions, workshops, special events and open houses take place. Running for over 25 years, the event is a firm favourite in the area and wonderfully links the district together.

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For more information on the historic town of Lewes and the surrounding towns and villages within the District, head to the VisitLewes official tourism website